Can You Do Plumbing Works On Your Own?
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If you’re a homeowner, you know just how difficult it can be when you have problems with your plumbing system. While it is possible that you can do some plumbing works yourself, not all problems can be done by just about any person. Otherwise, the result may not be as satisfying as it would if it were done by a professional plumber.
Here are some of the minor plumbing jobs that you might experience in your house and which you might be able to do on your own.
Cleaning a clogged sink trap. This is a fairly simple job, which can be done by almost anybody. A word of warning, though, as it can be a bit messy. You’ll become used to it though, especially after doing it a number of times. Before even attempting to fix this problem, remember to place a bucket below the trap to hold all the water and everything that comes with it. At the two ends of the u-shaped trap are slip joint nuts which you need to loosen. Take out the trap. Then remove whatever is blocking the sink trap. Re-install it, after it is thoroughly cleaned. If the join slip nuts are already in bad condition, then it’s time to replace it. Also, check for leaks.
Replacing the shower head. This is another simple plumbing project that you can do. Visit your nearest home supply shop and buy a shower head of your choice. When you get home, take off the shower head from the shower arm. Clean the threads of the shower arm and wrap Teflon tape on it to prevent leaks. Finally, put the new shower head and check for leaks.
Replacing a leaking toilet ballcock assembly. A leaking ballcock assembly can have upsetting results, especially to your water bills. For sure, during these tough economic times, this is something you want to avoid. This is a fairly simple job, just go to your local home supply shop and purchase a new assembly. Start by turning off the water through the supply valve. Drain the water by flushing the toilet. Get hold of the float arm and remove the coupling nut, through which the water inlet pipe goes into the tank. Remove the nut underneath the tank. Replace the old assembly with a new one. Then reverse the entire process. Check for old washers and replace them with something new. Turn on the water and check for leaks.
These are some of the simple plumbing jobs that an average homeowner can do. However, keep in mind that the more complicated plumbing jobs will require the services of an experienced plumber. While you may be very skilled at doing minor plumbing problems there surely are some plumbing issues which you cannot handle unless you actually are a certified plumber. Knowing when you will need a professional plumber—and if at all possible before you over repair anything—is a sign of a smart and careful homeowner. Damaging something which you are trying to repair is not only ironic, but would also cost you more than if you have hired a professional plumber to do it in the first place. When in the middle of a plumbing problem, it would be wise to recognize this before you begin opening things in order to fix them.
Another important thing to remember while working on a plumbing project is the possibility of getting injured. You may argue that this can’t be possible because you will not be working with something as dangerous as electricity or that you will not be working in unsafe and high places. But you could cut yourself, get burned while using a propane torch, or you could get hit by a pipe or other item which you are trying to install or remove. In contrast, a professional plumber has the knowledge and experience to prevent or minimize any hazard related to his job.
Another very important reason that you cannot do some plumbing works is that there some plumbing codes dictate that some works be done only by a professional plumber. Whether or not this applies to your area, considering for a professional help anytime you are unconfident of your plumbing abilities is a wise idea.
