When DIY Plumbing Goes Bad

Just because you have a plumbing project to tackle, that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to call in the pros. Sometimes, DIY plumbing is the way to go. It just depends on your level of skill, plumbing experience, and comfort. If you want to take on a plumbing project on your own, and are sure you know what you’re doing, then go for it!

It is important to remember, though, that many well-intentioned plumbing projects can go horribly awry, and often due to simple, careless errors. Before you start your plumbing project, take a moment to refresh yourself on some of the most significant plumbing dos and don’ts.

Leaving The Water On

It’s a no brainer, and yet you might be surprised by how often it’s forgotten—and how dire the consequences when it is. Somewhere in your home there is a main water shut-off valve; there are likely some localized shutoffs for individual rooms and fixtures, too. When you’re tackling a plumbing project, make sure you turn the water off—or else risk a big, wet mess!

Overdoing It On Drain Cleaner

Unclogging a drain is one of the most common DIY plumbing projects—and yet even here, there is room to err. Using chemical drain cleaners can sometimes be effective, but it can also have a damaging, corrosive effect on your pipes—leading to much bigger problems in the long run. When you use chemical drain cleaner, use it sparingly; better yet, stick to a plunger or an auger, or give us a call if your clog proves stubborn. If you are a member with us, you can make use of our free drain cleaning service.

Mismatching Materials

What kind of material is used for the pipes in your home? Different homes will employ different materials, ranging from copper to plastic. If you want to swap out one material for another, that’s probably fine—but there could be consequences. Not all piping materials can hold hot water, for instance. Make sure you know what you’re getting into.

Overestimating Your Plumbing Skills

Finally, and not insignificantly: you’ve got to know your limitations. You may be a capable amateur plumber, but some jobs simply require a professional plumber. If you find yourself facing a challenge you’re just not up for, make sure you book an appointment with one of our Vancouver plumbers, rather than risk a poorly done job.