Do It Yourself Plumbing Repairs
If you’re handy or a do-it-yourself-er (DIY-er) you probably can and probably even enjoy completing home repair tasks without hiring a professional. There are some plumbing repairs that you can do yourself. This can save time and money. Here’s a list of a few common household plumbing repairs that you can easily make yourself.
Toilet Tank Overflow
Toilet tank overflow occurs when you see water flowing into the toilet bowl after flushing. This problem can be easily remedied by turning off the shut-off valve on your toilet tank. To do this, simply adjust the float-arm inside the toilet tank until the flapper valve closes. Then run a flush test (i.e. flush the toilet) to ensure that the water overflow has stopped.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are another common plumbing problem that you can usually repair yourself. The first step you should take when you’re trying to unclog a drain is to use a rubber plunger. If that doesn’t work then try a chemical cleanser like Liquid Plumr or Drano. If a chemical cleanser doesn’t remove the blockage, place a disposable container underneath the trap (the pipe located under the sink), loosen the trap, remove the clog, clear the trap with hot water, and then replace it.
When To Hire A Plumbing Professional
Although it is possible to make some minor plumbing repairs yourself, sometimes it’s necessary to bite the bullet and hire a professional plumber. So what kinds of plumbing repairs should you leave to a certified, licensed professional plumber? Problems such as leaking or burst pipes are best left to a professional plumber. Leaking pipes can cause mold build-up if not repaired immediately. If you have a burst or broken pipe, it’s best to consult a professional plumber. But you can (and should) turn off the water supply to prevent flooding. You should also turn off all appliances and water heating systems that may have gotten wet. Water and electricity don’t mix. Major plumbing repairs left unaddressed can lead to water damage in your home, which can be even more costly than hiring a professional plumber.
Bad Tasting Water And Calcium Build-Up
Another problem that you should hire a professional plumber to solve is bad tasting water. This is not only unappealing but it is also unhealthy and extremely dangerous. Calcium build-up can be caused by hard water and takes a toll on plumbing systems. You should consult a professional plumber to address this problem as well.
Other Problems That Only Plumbing Professionals Are Qualified To Address
There are a few plumbing issues that should only be repaired by a professional plumber including, sewer line installation, sewer drain cleaning and sewer drain repair or replacement. Professional plumbers also use specialized cameras to detect problems in sewer lines that cannot be seen with the naked eye. It’s also a good idea to call a certified, licensed plumber to repair water heaters and sump pumps.
How Do I Find A Professional Plumber in Alexandria VA?
It is easy to find an Alexandria plumbing company using a simple Google search. Another effective way to do this is ask family and friends for their recommendations or to look at business reviews online.
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