With the rise of YouTube how-to videos, home renovation shows, and everything being a Google search away, DIY has become popular in almost every industry, including plumbing. Although there are many circumstances where we cannot encourage DIY, there are some simple plumbing issues which could be managed DIY style. If you choose to attempt DIY plumbing, please follow these tips to protect yourself and achieve the best results. ***Please read the disclaimer below***
Turn Your Water Off—Before you begin working on your plumbing, be sure your water is turned off. You can cause a considerable mess and damage your home otherwise.
Expect the Mess–Always assume you will get wet and have a bit of a mess when you attempt DIY plumbing. Be prepared with rags and catch basins if necessary.
Be Prepared—Go ahead and have the tools you think you’ll need with you. There is nothing worse than having to make 4 trips to the tool shed once you get comfortable under the sink.
Have a “Plan B” in Place—Regardless of how confident you may feel about your DIY, be ready to call your professional in case you get in a bind. If you are not 100% confident you can complete it without help, do no start your project at 5:00 p.m. on a Friday. Most service companies charge a premium for after hours and weekend work. Don’t let the project you are doing yourself to save money end up costing 3 times what you should have saved.
Do it Right–If you do not know how, learn how to do it. There are many YouTube videos, along with videos on our website to empower your DIY efforts. FitzGerald & Sons Plumbing is always here to help with advice or even short “how-to” tips on the phone. While we can’t take the time to talk you through a complete one-hour project, we can usually help you understand what to do.
Electricity and Water Don’t Mix–If you are not confident you can safely wire a water heater, disposal, or dishwasher, call a professional. What you don’t know can really hurt you. Although learning something new is valuable, keeping yourself safe should be your first priority.
If you are ready to attempt DIY, the team at FitzGerald and Sons Plumbing Company will be standing by to offer help.
***Prior to attempting any at-home maintenance, review the following disclaimer. FitzGerald & Sons Plumbing Co. takes no responsibility for any actions of the homeowner and is not liable for any losses or damages incurred. If damage occurs from attempting home maintenance, FitzGerald & Sons Plumbing Co. is not responsible for fixing the issue, unless hired at our normal service rate to address the issue. Before attempting to resolve any plumbing issues, we recommend carefully consulting any instructions or manuals which may have been included. If the work requires an experienced and licensed professional plumber, our staff is available 24/7 to help.