If you are having trouble with a slow drain or find that a pipe has broken, it may be possible to rectify the problem on your own. However, if the problem keeps coming back or is impossible to fix in the first place, it may be time to call in a plumber. What are some signs that it is time to call for professional help in solving your household issue?
1) You Can’t Access the Pipe
If you find that you have to start dismantling the bathtub or take out part of the ceiling to get to a pipe, it may be best to have a professional handle the project. While you may be perfectly capable of fixing the problem on your own, it could take an entire day or weekend to do so. Instead of missing out on time with your family and friends, hire someone who can do the job right in a timely manner.
2) You Can’t Do the Job Safely
Even if you know what the issue is, it doesn’t mean that you can solve it without hurting yourself. If you have to climb a ladder, repeatedly bend and stretch or otherwise put yourself in harm’s way to complete the job, hire a professional to do it for you. There is never a good reason to put your health at risk just to stop a pipe from leaking.
3) You Don’t Know What the Problem Is
In some cases, you may not actually know what is wrong with your pipes. While you may suspect that a pipe is cracked, it doesn’t mean that it is the reason why it is leaking. When you aren’t sure what the problem is, don’t hesitate to call for help. Having someone diagnose the problem for you means that it gets fixed properly and before the problem can get any bigger.
4) You Need a Permanent Solution
Putting tape over a cracked pipe is a good way to keep it from leaking overnight or over the weekend. Pouring gel down the drain may be a good way to keep the tub or toilet from overflowing for a short period of time. However, neither solution is likely to be a permanent one. While you may not look forward to spending money on a plumber, he or she will be able to offer a permanent solution to your problem. This means that you spend less money trying to minimize its effects going forward.
5) You Don’t Own the Property
Many people rent the apartment or home that they live in, which means that they may be limited in the repairs that they can make on their own. Therefore, it may be necessary to call in a plumber to ensure that the job is done properly or at least in a manner that doesn’t cause additional damage to the property. Those who have a landlord may wish to call that person to request that a plumber be called on their behalf.
It is critical that any issues related to a home’s plumbing be taken care of as soon as possible. Failure to mitigate minor issues could result in the need to remove walls, floors or other components because of water or mold damage. Most plumbers are available on an emergency basis in the event that a plumbing issue occurs outside of normal business hours.
