Category: Blog

Do it yourselves are an enterprising lot. They tend to believe every problem that arises in the home can be handled in-house. But that’s not always the case. In some instances, it is crucial for everyone’s safety and health that a professional is called in to help.

Electrical wiring, for instance, should always be done by a licensed electrician and most plumbing repairs should be handled by a licensed plumber. There’s just too much at stake to do it yourself. Below are 7 cases when you should call the plumber.

• Clogged bathroom drains – Whether the clog is in the bathtub, shower, sink or toilet it will only get worse if it is not addressed in a timely fashion. By all means use the plunger to try and clear the drain first. But if that doesn’t work don’t stuff the drain with over-the-counter chemicals that could damage the pipes or try to dismantle the pipes yourself to find the clog. Call the plumber.

• A leaky tap – If water is leaking from the faucet itself it is likely nothing more than a worn-out washer. In which case any reasonably experienced do-it-yourselfer can fix it in about an hour. If however, the water is leaking from the body of the faucet and/or there are puddles of water under the sink it’s likely a problem with the pipes and it’s time to call the plumber.

• Poor water pressure – Water pressure issues are sometimes a matter of a clogged pipe. In other cases, however, it could be something more serious. If old pipes have corroded to the point that they’re beginning to leak this can and does drag down the pressure. If you are beset by water pressure issues call the plumber.

• Remodeling projects – Licensed plumbers are always required for remodeling projects that involve water pipes. For instance, if you are building an outdoor kitchen with a sink, remodeling the kitchen and moving the sink, or installing a new bathroom in the house you’ll need to call in a plumber to do the work.

• Subsidence in the yard – If you have noticed that an area around the perimeter of the house has suddenly begun to subside there could be water leaking from underground pipes in that area. If the problem is not addressed quickly it could undermine the foundation of the house and jeopardize its structural integrity. If you notice subsidence next to the house or in the yard call the plumber, quickly.

• Problems with the water heater – If you are suddenly having problems with your water temperature it’s time to call the plumber. If the water heater doesn’t get hot enough it could turn into a breeding ground for dangerous bacteria. Or, if it’s too hot it could scald you in the shower. If the water heater has gone haywire call the plumber.

Don’t gamble with the safety and health of your loved ones or with the value of your home. Call the plumber any time these water-related issues arise.

If your tap is leaking the first impulse may be to call the plumber. While this will certainly result in the leak being fixed you can save the expense by fixing the leak yourself.

This is one of the most common types of DIY projects performed around the house because it’s relatively easy and doesn’t require any special knowledge or high tech tools to perform. It’s usually just a matter of replacing the washer inside the tap. Below we’ll provide you with step-by-step tips to fix your leaking tap.

Remember to Pick Up the Washer Before You Start

As we mentioned fixing a leaky tap is usually no more complicated than replacing a worn-out washer. So before you shut down the water supply and take apart your tap take a photo of that leaky tap. Bring it to the hardware store and show the person there. They should be able to supply you with the type of washer you need.

Tools You Will Need to Fix a Leaky Tap

• A screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench
• Rag or cloth

Fixing the Leaky Faucet

• Shut down the water supply – The first thing to do is to shut down the water going to the tap. The shutdown valve is located under the sink. There should be one for hot and one for cold. Turn off the appropriate one. Then turn the tap to ‘on’ and drain away water already in the pipe.
• Unscrew the handle – Use your screwdriver to remove the screw holding the handle in place. Make sure to place the screw where it’s safe and you can find it later. Use your rag or cloth (or sponge if you prefer) to wipe up excess water and keep the work area clean and dry.
• Remove the gland nut – Next, use your adjustable wrench to remove the gland nut (sometimes called the headgear nut). It will be the only nut you see that will accept the wrench. Turn it counter clockwise until it’s off. Then remove the remaining mechanism, exposing the washer in the process.
• Remove the washer – Use your screwdriver to get under the washer and pry it loose, then remove it. Sometimes the washer will have begun to decompose and may come up in bits and pieces. Be sure you remove all the pieces and that the surface the washer was sitting on is completely clear of washer debris. Then and only then put the new washer in place, reassemble the tap and turn the water back on under the sink.

Notes:

• Performing this type of fix shouldn’t take more than about an hour.
• If water is leaking from the body of the faucet (rather than the spout) it usually indicates damage to the pipes. In which case you will need to call the plumber.
• If you notice puddles of water under the sink when you go to turn the water supply off this is another sign you will need to a plumbing expert.

Hiring a plumber is not as simple as getting a number off the side of a truck that passes you on the street. You need to be sure the company is reputable, that their rates are competitive, that they have the experience and expertise to perform the necessary work and that you can open your home to them without worrying about your safety and the safety of your loved ones. The following checklist will help you find out the things you need to know before hiring a plumbing service in Melbourne FL.

• Are they fully insured? – This is the first thing to ask a plumber before hiring them. If they do not carry adequate liability insurance and cover their workers in case of accidents you should not hire them. Period. Why? Because if they are not insured and they or one of their assistants hurts themselves while on your property you are liable for their medical expenses and perhaps much, much more.

• Do they have a good reputation? – You can get a feel for a company’s reputation by asking them for references and then contacting those references. You can also check their reputation with the Better Business Bureau or BBB. They keep a record of customer feedback and of any lawsuits the company may be involved in. What you’re looking for is a pattern of trouble. Not isolated incidents.

• Are they locally owned? – Corporate consolidation may be good for keeping airline ticket prices down but it’s not usually good for home services. Anything to do with home repairs or improvements is best done by companies with a vested interest in the well-being of the community. That means companies that are locally owned and operated. If someone works for a subsidiary of an offshoot of international conglomerate accountability is bound to suffer.

• Are their prices competitive? – In an emergency situation you may not have time to shop around. But if you have the luxury of taking your time make sure you get estimates for the work from several different companies. If one is far more expensive than the others you need to ask why. If they don’t want to discuss the matter, fine. Move on to someone else.

• Do they screen their workers? – A lot of homeowners overlook this, but they shouldn’t. You are, after all, opening your door to these people. And while the overwhelming majority of plumbers are honest, hardworking, upstanding individuals there are always a few bad apples floating around. Does the company perform background checks on new hires?

• Do they answer your questions? – Some contractors act as though you are privileged to speak with them. They spend more time telling you what you need instead of listening to what you want and answering your questions. If the plumber acts like you are wasting their time with your questions thank them and move on. It simply doesn’t bode well for your long term satisfaction.

Keep these things in mind while you are looking for a plumber and you’ll find one that perfectly suits your needs.