Plumbing problems – they’re not pleasant, but we all experience them. Most often they’re emergencies, and we call a plumber in a panic, hoping they’re trustworthy. Then we bite the bullet and pay the eye-watering bill for their necessary services.
Nowadays though, DIY is becoming increasingly popular. We are learning that not only can we successfully perform maintenance jobs, but it saves us a lot of money.
While we need a reliable, professional plumber for more complex work, there are many things that we can do for ourselves. The advantages go far beyond simply saving cash.
We can do DIY improvement and installation work exactly the way we want it, without trying to explain our needs to someone else who may misunderstand us. And, when leakages do happen, the quicker they’re fixed, the better. That means not waiting for a visit from a professional.
Here are 5 effective tips that YOU can implement to get in control of your home plumbing situation.
1. Prevention is Better than Cure
While issues related to home water systems aren’t always avoidable, preventative measures can reduce risk.
Be attentive to waste disposal recommendations, and do simple activities such as placing strainers on plug holes. Clean drains with baking soda and white vinegar each month, and install hose screens on washing machines to avoid blocked drains.
2. Prepare in Advance
No matter how careful you are, home waterworks get old, broken and leaky, and they’re affected by changes in weather. It’s best to learn how to deal with inevitable problems before they arise.
Always seek advice.
DIY store staff and others with experience can help if it’s your first time fixing a blocked drain or the flapper valve of a leaky toilet.
Knowledge truly is power. If you want to take on complex plumbing jobs, enrol onto an official plumbing course.
Coursegate is a reputable online platform offering a CPD-accredited 3-hour course in plumbing. While it won’t turn you into a professional, you will become confident at tackling advanced plumbing activities. Other courses with varying levels of complexity are available.
3. Have the Right Tools
The right tools can prevent plumbing problems, and the right tools can also help get problems fixed. Before performing a job, make sure you have the required equipment. It’s best to have commonly needed tools at home in advance of problems occurring.
If you want to do a large refurbishment job that includes plumbing fixtures, then having both knowledge and the correct appliances in advance is a prerequisite.
4. Shut Down the Water Supply
This is a quick tip, but it is critical. You do not want the water to keep on running, or worse, spurt everywhere and cause mold and leakages, while trying to solve a plumbing problem.
Find out where the main water valve is, and shut it off before you get started on any plumbing activities.
5. Don’t be Afraid to Call a Plumber
You may be a DIY stalwart, but some home plumbing issues are best left to the professionals. Always have the number of a reliable plumber to hand. If there’s any uncertainty, or a situation is getting out of control, then give them a call as soon as possible.
February 21, 2021