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Is My Plumbing Problem a “DIY” or Do I Need a Professional?

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When it comes to your plumbing, it’s a complex system that can be complicated for the average homeowner to navigate. Although it can be tempting to fix any issues that arise with your plumbing on your own, it’s not always as simple as you may think. If it’s not repaired properly, it may cause further damage down the road. Some projects can be fixed as a DIY project, but when it comes to bigger issues, such as your boiler, furnace, water heater or sump pump, you’ll always want to rely on a professional. We’ve put together a list of some of the repairs you may be able to tackle on your own and those you should always enlist an expert for. 

Basic Plumbing Repairs 

  • Slow Dripping Faucet – A steady dripping faucet is not only annoying to listen to, but it’s also wasting water and therefore costing you more money. A slow but steady drip typically means that the washer in the faucet needs to be replaced. To check, you can unscrew the handle and inspect the O-ring and washer for damage. If a new washer doesn’t stop the drip, you may have broken or loose parts, in which case you’ll want to call in a plumber to take a look. 
  • Running Toilet – If water continuously flows into the bowl after flushing, there’s most likely a problem with the lever in the tank. To fix this issue, take off the lid, and locate the chain (which has probably sunk the bottom of the tank). Take the chain and reattach to the lever that’s connected to the handle. This should make your toilet run normally again. 
  • Clogged Drains – One of the most common issues homeowners have with their plumbing is clogged drains. Hair and other debris can easily get caught in the shower and sink drains, causing it not to drain properly. While this can be a DIY project to fix, you’ll want to be careful of dumping any harsh chemicals down your drain to solve the issue. Try a natural solution, such as baking soda and vinegar to unclog it first. 

Plumbing Repairs for the Professionals 

  • Water Heater Malfunction– A water heater that’s not functioning properly is not only an inconvenience, but it can also be a health and safety hazard for your home. If your water heater is leaking odors or making unusual noises, this is a clear sign that a professional is needed for this task. 
  • Sump Pump Failure – A sump pump is what protects your basement from flooding by sending water away from the house. If your sump pump fails, you could be faced with extensive repairs and damage. Having your sump pump regularly maintained and serviced by an expert is crucial to prevent any issues. 
  • Burst Pipes – Especially in New England with freezing cold temperatures, pipes can quickly become frozen, causing them to burst. If this happens, you should shut the water immediately and call in a plumbing expert. 

Contact Al Terry Plumbing, Heating & Cooling 

For any of your plumbing maintenance and repair needs in New Hampshire, you can count on the experts at Al Terry! Our experts are available 24/7 in the case of an emergency, such as a burst pipe. Give us a call at 603-485-4205, and we’ll be happy to help.