We love a good DIY project, and fixing a few minor things around the house is super satisfying. But when it comes to plumbing, making a mistake can lead to massive water damage or dangerous safety risks. Here is our straightforward guide on what you can tackle yourself, and when it’s time to call us.
DIY-Appropriate: Replacing a Faucet Aerator or Showerhead
Swapping out a showerhead or cleaning a gunked-up faucet aerator is super easy and low-risk. Just turn off the water at the fixture, unscrew the old part, and twist on the new one. It’s the perfect weekend project for a beginner DIYer!
DIY-Appropriate: Fixing a Running Toilet Flapper
If your toilet won't stop running, it's usually just a worn-out rubber flapper. You can buy a replacement at any hardware store for a few bucks. Just shut off the toilet's water valve, drain the tank, and swap the flapper. It's quick, safe, and saves water.
DIY-Appropriate: Unclogging a Simple Drain
A standard plunger is your best friend for a basic toilet or sink clog. If the clog is near the surface, a plunger or a small hand-crank snake will usually fix it. But if the clog keeps coming back or affects multiple sinks, it’s time to call in the pros.
Call a Pro: Any Work Involving the Main Line
Never try to DIY your main water or sewer line. You need professional tools, specialized knowledge, and often city permits. Making a mistake here can disrupt water service to your whole house, cause massive flooding, or create a serious biohazard.
Call a Pro: Water Heater Repair or Replacement
Working on a water heater, especially a gas unit, is extremely dangerous if you don't know exactly what you're doing. Improper work can lead to gas leaks, fires, or carbon monoxide poisoning. Always leave water heater repairs and installations to a licensed, trained plumber.
Call a Pro: Any Suspected Leak Behind Walls or Under Slabs
If you think you have a hidden leak, do not start smashing into your drywall or jackhammering your floor! We use high-tech acoustic and thermal tools to find the exact pinhole leak without destroying your house. Professional leak detection saves you a massive headache.
Call a Pro: Any Repiping Work
Replacing your home's water pipes requires strict adherence to local building codes and advanced installation techniques. A bad repipe job guarantees low water pressure and destructive leaks. Always hire a licensed pro (you can check licenses via the CSLB). We also offer trenchless sewer repairs!