It’s a classic question every homeowner faces: a tap starts dripping, a toilet keeps running, or a pipe under the sink begins to leak. Your mind immediately goes to two options: “Can I fix this myself and save some money?” or “Do I need to call a professional?”
This isn’t a battle of skill, but a matter of balance and knowing your limits. In the world of professional plumbers vs DIY, there’s a place for both. Being a savvy and confident homeowner is great, but so is understanding that some jobs require the specialist knowledge and tools that only a qualified expert can provide.
We’ve pulled together an honest review of which home plumbing repairs you can tackle with confidence, and when it’s truly time to reach out to the experts.
Your confident DIY plumbing checklist
These are the kinds of DIY plumbing jobs that are often straightforward and perfect for a homeowner with a basic toolkit.
- Bleeding a Radiator: If your radiator is cold at the top, a simple bleed of the air can make it more efficient. All you need is a radiator key and a rag.
- Unblocking a Drain: A simple blockage in a sink or shower can often be cleared with a trusty plunger or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
- Replacing a Shower Head: Upgrading your shower head is a simple screw-on, screw-off job that requires no specialist tools and can make a big difference.
When to call a plumber: The non-negotiable situations
For some plumbing problems, your safest and most effective option is to call a professional. This isn’t a sign of failure—it’s a sign of being smart and responsible. Here’s when to call a plumber without hesitation.
Emergencies:
- Burst or Leaking Pipes: If you have a significant leak or a burst pipe, the first thing to do is turn off the water at the main stopcock. After that, call a professional. A burst pipe can cause extensive and costly water damage in a matter of minutes.
- No Hot Water: While a minor boiler issue may be a DIY fix, a complete lack of hot water or heating could be a sign of a serious boiler problem that requires a Gas Safe registered engineer.
For Major Jobs
- Gas Appliances: Gas work, including boilers, cookers, and heating systems, should never be a DIY project. It is not only unsafe but also illegal for an unregistered person to work on gas appliances.
- Major Installations: If you’re installing a new shower, toilet, or relocating pipes during a renovation, you need a professional to ensure the work is done correctly, meets building regulations, and won’t cause problems down the line.
For Persistent Problems
- Recurring Blockages: If you’re constantly dealing with the same drain blockage, it’s a sign that there’s a bigger problem deeper in the pipes. A plumber has the right tools to diagnose and solve it for good.
- Low Water Pressure: This can be caused by a number of issues, from a faulty valve to limescale build-up. A professional can quickly diagnose and solve the issue with expertise.
You’ve got this…sometimes
Both approaches have their place. Being a confident homeowner is about feeling empowered to handle the small, straightforward tasks. But it’s also about having the wisdom to know when a job is beyond your scope and could lead to more serious and costly damage.
Whether you’re looking for a simple how-to guide or you need a qualified professional, our goal is to help you feel confident and in control. A great plumber can provide a balanced solution and ensure your home plumbing repairs are done safely and to the highest standard.
With Rated People, you have the power to get it done. Find a trusted, local tradesperson today.
