DIY Plumbing: What Tasks Can You Tackle on Your Own?

DIY plumbing can save you a lot of money on repairs and installations, but it can also be a dangerous and expensive undertaking if you are not careful. Knowing what tasks you can safely tackle on your own can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches down the line.

Here are some DIY plumbing tasks you can safely handle without calling in professional Plumbers in Burwood.

1. Replacing a faucet aerator

Replacing a faucet aerator is a relatively easy DIY task that can save you money on plumber fees. First, you must purchase a new replacement part that fits the existing holes in your sink.

A faucet aerator is a tiny gadget that attaches to the end of a faucet and adds air to the water stream. This makes the water stream easier to utilise and helps the water seem softer and smoother.

Just turn the current aerator on your faucet anticlockwise. Once it comes off, check if the screen is clogged with silt. If yes, replace it. Faucet aerators are so cheap that buying and installing a new one is manageable on your own.

2. Fixing a leaky faucet

A leaky faucet can be a nuisance and waste a lot of water over time. In many cases, fixing a leaky faucet is a simple DIY job requiring only a few basic tools.

3. Installing a new showerhead

Replacing an old or broken showerhead is another easy DIY job.

Turn the showerhead outward with your hand. Channel-lock pliers can help you start it if you do require assistance. Replace the showerhead after applying Teflon tape to the shower discharge pipe and winding it around the pipe in a clockwise motion.

That’s all you need to do to replace a showerhead.

4. Replacing a toilet flapper

A faulty flapper causes a running toilet. In this case, you need to replace the flapper, and it is an easy DIY task that can save you money on water bills.

5. Clearing a clogged drain

A clogged drain is a common plumbing problem that you can clear using several DIY tools. You can use any of the following methods or tools to do it.

• Drain snake
• Plunger
• Organic drain cleaner
• Chemical drain cleaner

All these four methods/tools are simple enough to handle by yourself. But if the clogs persist, you may have to call your plumber in Burwood.

6. Installing a new garbage disposal

Installing a new garbage disposal is a bit more complicated but still manageable for DIYers with some plumbing experience. You’ll need to shut off the power and water supply, remove the old disposal, and install the new one.

7. Repairing a burst pipe

If you have a burst pipe, it’s best to call in a professional Local Plumber in Burwood. However, if you catch a leak early, you can temporarily fix the problem.

When you have a damaged plumbing pipe, it is simple to become anxious. But the first thing to remember is that there is always a primary shut-off valve in your house, and it is usually situated someplace on the perimeter. If you are lucky, you could find an intermediary shut-off valve next to the broken pipe.

But after that, you must evaluate the matter with time and clarity. Now, you can quickly fix the issue using plumbing tape or a pipe clamp.

8. Insulating Pipes

It’s also DIY-able to insulate your home’s pipes to prevent freezing and save money on energy bills during winter.

You can install foam pipe insulation to keep the water in the supply pipes warm. By doing this, you can conserve water the next time you draw from a sink, shower, or bathtub’s hot water side while you wait for the hot water to come. You should insulate the exposed hot water supply pipes with low-cost foam pipe insulation wherever you can see them.

9. Fix Low Water Pressure

When you have an urgent need to get ready in the morning, having low water pressure in the shower might be frustrating. Thankfully, replacing your old, water-restricting showerhead with a new one may be all that is necessary to restore proper water pressure. You might also soak the showerhead in vinegar if it clogs with sediment.

Final Say

While these are all DIY plumbing tasks that most people can handle, it’s important to remember that only the best plumbers in Burwood should carry out some plumbing jobs. If you are unsure whether a job is within your skillset, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and call in a professional plumber.

In addition to knowing what tasks you can safely handle on your own, it’s also important to know some basic maintenance and upkeep for your plumbing system. Here are some tips for keeping your plumbing in good condition.

• Regularly check for leaks: Check under sinks and around toilets for any signs of leaks. Early catching of leaks can prevent more serious problems down the line.
• Keep drains clear: Use drain strainers and avoid pouring grease, oil, and other materials down the drain that can clog pipes.
• Keep your plumbing clean: Regularly clean your plumbing fixtures and drains to prevent buildup and odours.

By knowing what plumbing tasks you can safely handle on your own and taking steps to maintain your plumbing system, you can save money on repairs and keep your home’s plumbing in good condition.

DIY or not, you will need a plumber somewhere along the way. So, keep a few good plumbers in your contacts. You may add Doyle Plumbing as well to your list.