While plumbing is a complex system, one that needs to be maintained and watched by every homeowner, regular maintenance on the general structure of the system can save homeowners from damage from water, sewer back-ups, or other plumbing issues that can arrive. As a homeowner, you would be able to handle most of the typical plumbing repair issues, but in some cases, you would need to seek professional help. It is essential for you to judge the gravity of the repair task at hand, your expertise and the tools and equipment that you have on hand while making this decision. You shouldn't try and start with a repair or maintenance task if the issue is complicated and you aren't sure how to go about it. It is in such cases that you would need to hire a professional plumber. Let us discuss a few scenarios where you would need to utilize the services of a professional agency for plumbing repairs.
Table of Contents
- Broken or Leaking Pipes
- Installation of Faucets and Fixtures
- Clogged Drains and Pipes
- Frozen Pipe Repairs
- Noisy Pipes
- Tips for Homeowners
Professional Plumbing Repairs - Broken or Leaking Pipes
5-10 years ago, when there was a water leak in the house, it was not possible to detect unless there was water in the house or gathered on the ground. The technology, which is constantly evolving continues to produce practical solutions to find water leaks in the home. With the emerging technology and the benefits that come with it, it's much easier for our homes and workplaces to become drier, healthier, and more livable. Minor leaks or drippy faucets aren't much of a concern at the beginning but left alone for too long, and they can become a large problem over time. Leakages are one of the most common types of plumbing issue.
Be it your kitchen or bathroom the most challenging part is to locate the source of the leakage. Start by evaluating where the water is coming from to avoid larger problems later on. Usually, the leaking occurs where the pipes connect with each other. However, in some cases, it may also be due to small holes or cracks that develop over time. You might try patching it up, but these are temporary solutions and would fix the issue for a short while. The need is to get the pipes, and the joints replaced, and this would require professional tools and expertise.
Installation of Faucets and Fixtures
Changing fixtures might sound like an ideal DIY job, but evolving fixtures can be quite a challenging task. To start with you would need to find the same operating fit or type of the fixture that needs to be replaced. Once you have found it, you might need some power tools and the right technique to finish the job. It becomes more challenging when you are to replace a small component of a larger shower unit, and it may be placed at an odd angle. To prevent damage to the complete unit and to achieve seamless fit it would be ideal to hire the services of a professional.
Clogged Drains and Pipes
Most people never realize the importance of drain cleaning until there is a serious blockage in the lines that clogs the entire pipes system. These pipes are usually blocked by debris, and you can prevent this by regularly inspecting the pipes for clogs. When the blockage is serious, you need to call in the professionals, and they would clear all the blockages with power rodding. This equipment allows them to reach every area of the pipe and clear frustrating clogs.
Frozen Pipe Repairs
Frozen pipes can be a real catastrophic if not looked or maintained upon early. As winter approaches, it's better that you take adequate measures as early as possible. Add pipe insulation to the plumbing in colder parts of your house such as garages, basements, and crawl spaces, to avoid frozen pipes, but also to shorten the wait for hot water. Pipe insulation tubes average cost is around 35 cents per foot.
Noisy Pipes
If your pipes are so noisy that they sound like squeaking or hammering, you can easily solve this problem. Anchoring exposed pipes will decrease the amount of noise your plumbing system makes. Enlisting the aid of a professional may be necessary if any of the pipes are located in the floors, walls, or ceiling.
Tips for Homeowners
Responsible home ownership includes looking after the various systems inside your home to keep it running smoothly. One of the most complex parts of this job is plumbing repair and maintenance. Many times, problems can be solved by hand with proper knowledge, but if the issue becomes more than one or two people can handle, professionals need to be called in. Whether you plan on trying to resolve all issues that come up on your own, or consult a professional each time, there are important home plumbing tips every homeowner should be aware of before taking on any plumbing job.
Avoid putting grease, fat, and other oils down your drain. When they cool off, they become hard and will clog your pipes. Even with a garbage disposal, you are going to cause it to be less efficient and risk drain backups. Throw away oils nowhere near the sink.
If you are dealing with a burst pipe, after you shut the main water valve, you should turn on outside spigots to drain the pipes. This is very important for reducing damage because the water will be directed outside rather than inside your home. This little tip can save you a lot of money.
Putting a cup of any kind of baking soda followed with a cup of white vinegar each month will keep your drain running smoothly. Cover the drain with an old rag, because there will be a chemical reaction taking place inside the pipes. Wait a while, and then use boiling water to flush. Your pipes will soon be clear of accumulated hair and soap scum.
The plumbing in any home can be a complex system but knowing the basics can help solve minor issues that come up, or prevent minor issues from turning into major problems.