As a homeowner in Woodland Park, you know very well that plumbing emergencies can hit at any time. In such a situation, you are most likely to be left scrambling for quick solutions. You could be dealing with a backed-up sewer or a burst pipe. You could also be experiencing a leaking water heater. Regardless of the exact problem, you need to know whether to fix it yourself or call in the experts.
Your decision between the two will usually depend on the extent of the issue. Minor problems like a slow-draining sink can often be handled as DIY. However, more serious shortcomings like extensive leaks may require professional attention.
This article helps you determine whether to go DIY or call an emergency plumber in Woodland Park.
DIY Plumbing: What You Can Do by Yourself
Do You Have A Plumbing Emergency?
Some plumbing issues cannot be regarded as emergencies. Here are some challenges that you can sort out yourself:
Unclogging Minor Drains and Toilets
At times, drains and toilets might drain slowly. This issue can be a result of a simple blockage. Potential causes here include grease and debris. You can fix this using a plunger or a basic drain snake. This can be done without the requirement of professional assistance.
You could also try some eco-friendly solutions. For instance, a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can get the job done quite well. Such a remedy is recommended. This is because using harsh chemical cleaners could damage your pipes over time.
In case the clog persists, it could be time to call in the experts. This is crucial to help prevent further complications.
Fixing a Leaky Faucet or Showerhead
A steady drip wastes a lot of water. It also drives up your utility bills. The problem usually comes about as a result of a worn-out washer or cartridge inside the fixture. This is an issue that you can fix quite fast using basic tools. Some of these include a wrench and a screwdriver.
All you need to do here is disassemble the fixture. Next, inspect the components and replace the faulty piece. This is a simple process that shouldn’t take you more than an hour to complete.
To ensure a smooth process, remember to shut off the water supply. This is before you start any work. Doing this helps avoid an unexpected mess.
When to Call an Emergency Plumber in Woodland Park
At times, the issues you are dealing with may be quite severe. In such occasions, it’s best to leave the task to the specialists. This part of the article gives different instances that might require you to call an emergency plumber.
Burst Pipes or Major Leaks
Such a situation can cause extensive water damage and mold growth. It could even lead to structural issues. These are possible if not addressed quickly enough.
In case of such an issue, the first thing you may do is to shut off water supply. However, this doesn’t fix the problem. It’s for this reason that you should consider calling the experts. They will come in and locate the source. This will enable them to make permanent repairs.
It’s not advised to attempt a DIY fix. This is because a high-pressure situation can worsen the damage. It can even increase repair costs.
Sewage Backup or Foul Odors
You may notice that sewage is backing up into your drains. You may also detect persistent foul odors coming from your sinks or toilets. Such instances usually indicate a serious blockage. They may also show that you are dealing with a broken sewer line. These issues can pose serious health risks. They could even cause costly property damage. These challenges are likely to happen if the problem is not addressed fast enough.
The DIY route is not recommended. Instead, consider calling an emergency plumber. Experts can identify the source and stop the contamination. They also work hard to restore proper flow and sanitation to your plumbing system.
You need to know when to call an emergency plumber and when to handle minor issues by yourself. This ability can help you save a lot of time and money. Simple fixes like unclogging a drain can be done as DIY. However, more serious problems like sewage backups require immediate professional intervention.
In case of a plumbing crisis in Woodland Park, consider contacting Bear Creek Plumbing. We’ll help prevent further damage. We’ll also make sure that your plumbing system is restored safely and efficiently. Give us a call today.