10 Dangers of DIY Plumbing Repairs

The most random occurrences can often place us in a frenzy, especially concerning our properties. Imagine going on with your daily routine and a pipe suddenly bursts or the hot water system unexpectedly shuts down. While the immediate aftermath is this slight panic, our brains usually have this way of quickly switching to devising solutions. One of which is to go the DIY route.

With many illustrative step-by-step guides and even how-to videos available online, it’s understandable to consider using DIY solutions. Costs seem to be lower, as the only help you’ll need is your hands and patience while reading the instructions. 

Sounds quite easy? In theory, it sure does, but reality is often different. 

DIY plumbing fixes can cause more damage, especially when you haven’t tracked down the root of the problem. After all, plumbing issues can be quite deceiving on the surface. 

If you’re considering taking on that plumbing problem yourself, here are 10 reasons to reconsider.

Water Leaks Leading to Flooding

Broken pipes and dripping taps can be fixed temporarily through sealants and tapes. If you even have wrenches, you can use them to tighten the loose pieces. But all of these can take a different turn when you don’t have enough knowledge of how these problems came to be in the first place.

If these sealants are not properly placed, leaks can persist, and overtightened plumbing connections can cause cracks. Water will drip, so it’s only a matter of time before your home is flooded. 

It is also worth noting that it is easy to forget to shut off the main water source before starting DIY plumbing solutions. But that’s precisely why we have plumbing professionals who can help you fix leaky faucets and other similar issues!

Valve Failures

Valves are the primary regulator of your plumbing system’s water movement. With this established role, they take on wear and tear and suddenly, the water pressure drops. 

DIY solutions love to encourage valve replacements. But while it may seem easy to follow, it can be tricky and dangerous when done incorrectly. Too tight valves can cause damage to their mechanism, which could lead to crack development in the pipe fittings. These cracks will then set the stage for leakages, which may lead to flooding if left unattended. 

Corrosion

Plumbing systems in existing homes and other infrastructures have been carefully placed to ensure optimised flow. Depending on the property’s nature, the type of pipe material used was also heavily considered. 

Now, unless you were deeply involved in planning your plumbing system, you wouldn’t know the differences in the pipes used. This is an added risk when you attempt DIY solutions.

Going blind with the type used may cause you to mix and match materials not designed for the whole system. Wrong insulation fittings can lead to corrosion. Moreover, store-bought cleaners are incompatible with specific materials. Not having this prior knowledge can lead you to strip off your pipe interiors, potentially leading to water leaks over time. 

Electrical Hazards

Let’s talk about water heater systems. Attempting to install or repair these electrical systems without the proper know-how and tools can result in electrocution or fires. 

However, you can rest easy as Link Plumbing has resolved water temperature problems, shutdowns, costly hot water systems, and similar issues. Our team has the proper gear and training to handle these plumbing concerns. 

Reduced Air Quality

Improperly handled water leaks encourage mould or mildew in your properties. These sneaky moulds create unsightly stains on your walls, floorings, and ceilings.

More importantly, they release tiny spores into the air, lowering indoor air quality and causing potential respiratory issues. 

Wasted Time and Effort

Apart from the direct dangers of DIY plumbing, we also have the impact of these equally important measurements like time and effort. Attempts to clear plumbing problems require you to expend your energy.

Efficient solving of these due to knowledge and technological gaps will ultimately mean your attempt is well-spent. You could have allotted time and effort for your daily routines while allowing professionals to work on your property. 

Property Damage

Trial and error due to failed attempts to fix your plumbing concerns can cause more damage to your property. Unidentified underlying issues can persist and replicate problems in different areas of your plumbing system. Time is also of the essence here! They have to be repaired as soon as possible to prevent extensive damage. 

Reduced Plumbing System Longevity

DIY solutions are often band-aid solutions—they only tackle the issue superficially. But they aren’t designed to address the source, which is vital in maintaining your property’s overall plumbing health.

Higher Costs Incurred

You probably saved money by trying to fix your plumbing problems yourself. It could be if you look at it from a short-term perspective. However, when these repetitive DIY solutions fail, you’d be surprised at the accumulated cost. Investing in a licensed and insured plumber would have saved you from costly troubles. 

Potential Accidents and Injuries

DIY plumbing solutions could be more efficient in time, effort, and money and can lead you to physical dangers. 

Blocked drains, burst pipes, broken sewage pumps, and leaky gas lines may seem basic. However, things can escalate when you apply the wrong solutions, especially without the proper safety measures acquired through various industry training. You could seriously cut, bruise, electrocute, and burn yourself. 

Go the “Alternative” Route with A Professional Plumber in Sydney

With the internet as an extensive library, it’s no wonder DIY solutions are tempting. It’s a craze, after all. But there are things better off seeking out professional help – plumbing is one of them. 

As your trusted local emergency plumbing service provider, Link Plumbing has the right team with the right expertise, using the right tools to quickly and reliably address your plumbing issues. 

Save your money, time, and effort. Email us or call 0412 056 027. You can also make an appointment online to experience professional plumbing service right at your doorstep.