DIY vs. Pro Plumber: When to Call for Help in Manchester
In the age of online tutorials and home improvement shows, tackling a plumbing job yourself can be a tempting way to save a bit of money. For some simple tasks, a bit of DIY spirit is fantastic. However, knowing where to draw the line is crucial. A small mistake on a seemingly simple job can quickly turn into a costly flood and a major headache.
So, how do you decide when to roll up your sleeves and when to pick up the phone? Here’s a practical guide from the team at Smith & Son’s Plumbing.
The DIY-Friendly Plumbing Jobs
For the confident homeowner with the right basic tools, these tasks are often manageable:
Unclogging a Simple Drain: A clogged sink or shower drain can often be cleared with a plunger, a simple drain snake, or by cleaning the U-bend trap directly underneath the sink. Pro Tip: We advise against using harsh chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage older pipes over time.
Fixing a Dripping Tap: In many cases, a dripping tap is caused by a worn-out washer, which is a relatively simple and inexpensive part to replace.
Bleeding Radiators: If your radiators are cold at the top, bleeding them to release trapped air is a straightforward maintenance job that can improve your heating’s efficiency.
Replacing a Shower Head: Unscrewing an old shower head and fitting a new one is typically a very simple task that requires minimal tools.
When You MUST Call a Professional Plumber
For anything more complex, the risks of getting it wrong far outweigh the potential savings. Always call a professional for:
Anything Involving Gas: This is non-negotiable. Any work on a boiler, gas hob, or gas pipe must legally be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer. It is incredibly dangerous to undertake this work yourself.
Burst Pipes and Major Leaks: While you should take immediate steps to turn off your water supply, the actual repair of a burst pipe requires a professional to ensure a secure, lasting fix.
Installing New Fixtures: Fitting a new toilet, sink, shower, or bath requires expert knowledge to ensure correct drainage and watertight seals. A slow, hidden leak from a poor installation can cause devastating rot and mould damage over time.
Low Water Pressure Issues: If the water pressure throughout your house is poor, the cause is often complex and hidden within your pipework. This requires an expert diagnosis.
Hot Water Problems: If your hot water isn’t working, the issue is almost always with your boiler or water cylinder. Due to the safety risks (gas, pressure, and high temperatures), this is a job for a qualified engineer.
The Golden Rule
Our advice is simple: if you are not 100% confident, or if the job involves gas, mains water lines, or fitting new pipework, it is always safer, faster, and often cheaper in the long run to call a professional.