Pros & Cons of DIY Plumbing vs Hiring a Licensed Plumber

When a leaky faucet or clogged drain ruins your day, the first thing that comes to mind is to pick up the plumbing toolkit and fix the issue. Isn’t it?

Many people believe that a few DIY tricks can quickly solve the problem and save money. But when it comes to plumbing, is going the DIY route always the smartest choice?

Before you start repairing that water heater or fixing a dripping tap, just consider the pros and cons of handling plumbing issues on your own. In this blog, you’ll discover why DIY isn’t always the best decision, and when it’s smarter to call a licensed plumbing contractor.

DIY Plumbing and Its Pros and Cons

DIY plumbing simply means handling plumbing tasks yourself without hiring a professional. This can include anything from unclogging drains and fixing dripping faucets to replacing showerheads or installing a new toilet.

It is usually best for small, low-risk jobs where a mistake won’t cause serious damage. For example, you can try fixing a leaky faucet washer or tightening a loose pipe without much risk.

To get started, you may only need basic tools like a pipe wrench, pliers, plumber’s tape, a plunger, and a bucket. Many homeowners also rely on online tutorials or DIY guides to step through the repair.

However, it’s important to know about the risks and limitations before trying any DIY plumbing repair.

What Are the Pros of DIY Plumbing

1. Save You Money

When you deal with minor plumbing issues, you save the expense of a service call. If you have the knowledge of handling basic plumbing tools and revisiting online tutorials, you can solve minor plumbing problems yourself.

2. Immediate Action

Plumbing issues often arise unexpectedly. Sometimes, you may not have access to professional plumbers, or they are unavailable due to off-hours, weekends, or holidays.

DIY allows you to check the problems immediately without waiting for a professional's availability. 

3. Feeling of Satisfaction

Doing a plumbing repair yourself can feel satisfying because you solved the problem on your own. It also gives you more confidence to handle other plumbing tasks in the future.

What Are the Cons of DIY Plumbing

1. Water Damage

If connections aren’t tightened properly or leaks are missed, water continues to leak and enter the walls, floors, or cabinets. Over time, this can cause mold growth, damage wood or drywall, and even weaken your home’s structure.

2. Health Issues

Working on sewage lines or using strong drain chemicals without the right knowledge and precautions can be dangerous. You and your family might get exposed to harmful germs or breathe in toxic fumes, which can cause serious health problems.

3. Increased Repair Costs

If you make mistakes while fixing plumbing yourself, the issue can get worse instead of better. This might cause bigger damage and end up costing you more for repairs later.

4. Insurance Complications

When you do plumbing work yourself, your home insurance might not cover any damage caused by mistakes. For example, if a pipe you installed or repaired leaks and causes water damage, your insurance company could deny the claim. This means you would have to pay for the repairs and any resulting damage yourself.

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When Do You Need to Hire a Professional Plumbing Contractor?

Not every plumbing problem can be solved with DIY fixes. Some issues are too complex, risky, or urgent to handle on your own. For example, if you’re dealing with burst pipes, sewer backups, water heater problems, or recurring leaks, you must call a licensed plumber.

A professional plumber not only has the right tools and training but can also check if the repair is safe, long-lasting, and up to code. This is more important in places like Reno, where plumbing codes and standards must be followed to protect your home’s safety and value.

Pros of Hiring a Professional Plumbing Contractor in Reno

1. Experts Know How to Do It

Licensed plumbers are well-trained and work on plumbing problems every day. Whether it’s a small leak or a big repair, they already know the right way to fix it. This means the job gets done faster, safer, and without guesswork.

2. They Follow the Rules

Plumbing isn’t just about fixing pipes; it also has to meet local building codes. Licensed plumbers know all such rules in their area and make sure every repair or installation is done safely and legally. This protects your home and saves you from problems if you ever sell your house or need an inspection.

3. Long-Term Cost Savings

Hiring a professional may seem costly at first. But they can fix any plumbing issue with such perfection that you don't face repeated problems or need frequent repairs. This saves you money in the long run.

4. Insurance and Protection

Licensed plumbers have insurance, which means if something goes wrong, like accidental damage or an injury during the job, you don't need to worry about it.

Professional plumbers have the coverage to protect both you and them, giving you peace of mind while the work is being done.

Cons of Hiring a Licensed Plumber

• Professional service costs more than doing it yourself, especially for smaller issues.
• You might have to wait for an appointment, which can feel inconvenient during minor problems.
• You miss out on the self-satisfaction that you would get if you handled the project yourself

DIY Plumbing Or Professional Plumbing? Find Your Answers Here

• Can I replace a leaky faucet myself?

Yes, replacing a leaky faucet is a common DIY task. However, make sure you have the correct tools and follow proper procedures to avoid complications.

• How do I know if a plumber is licensed?

Always ask to see a plumber's license and verify it with your local licensing authority to check if they are qualified to perform plumbing work.

• What should I do if I have a plumbing emergency?

For emergency plumbing issues, it's best to contact a licensed and experienced plumber immediately to prevent further damage. Professional plumbing contractors like Easy Rooter Plumbing are available 24/7 to help you in an emergency.

• Will my homeowner's insurance cover DIY plumbing mistakes?

Homeowner's insurance may not cover damages resulting from DIY plumbing errors. It’s best to check your insurance policy for the exact details.

Takeaway

Knowing when to choose between DIY and professional plumbing is best for your plumbing system.

DIY plumbing can work for small fixes, but it’s important to think about the risks and rewards. For bigger or riskier jobs, a licensed plumber makes sure the work is safe, correct, and up to code. In the end, calling a pro can save you time, money, and stress.

Don’t Risk DIY Mistakes - Get Professional Plumbing Repair in Reno at Easy Rooter Plumbing

Looking for trusted plumbers in Reno? At Easy Rooter Plumbing, we provide reliable plumbing and drain services according to your needs.

Our team of licensed plumbers is here to help you with all your plumbing problems. Don’t worry if you’re facing a clogged drain, a leaking pipe, or an urgent plumbing emergency; we’re here 24/7 to help.

Instead of wasting your time, energy, and money on DIY tricks and risking your plumbing system, call us at 775-521-6429 to take care of your plumbing and drain.