DIY or Call the Pros? How to Fix Plumbing & HVAC Issues

When it comes to home repairs, not all fixes are equal. It’s important to know when to roll up your sleeves and tackle your home’s plumbing and HVAC repairs yourself and when it’s time to call a professional.

Check out this guide of common plumbing, heating, and AC repairs you can do yourself, as well as repairs that require a trained professional.

DIY Plumbing Fixes

1. Clogged drains: If your sink, toilet, or shower drain is suddenly clogged, you can usually clear it using a plunger, auger, or drain snake. Never use chemical drain cleaners that can damage your pipes.
2. Leaky faucets: An annoying dripping faucet can waste gallons of water. Minor leaky faucets are often caused by worn-out washers that can be easily replaced.
3. Broken toilets: Toilet components are exposed to water 24/7 and can become corroded and fail. Parts like flappers, fill valves, and flush valves can be replaced fairly simply to solve a running water or flushing issue.
4. Worn showerhead: Often, minerals in your water can clog the spray holes of your showerhead. Removing and cleaning the showerhead using vinegar and water can clear those mini clogs and restore water pressure. Upgrading your showerhead to a new version is a DIY task that can make your shower more efficient.

DIY HVAC Fixes

1. Dirty air filters: Air filters help to remove dust and allergens from the air. When clogged, they can’t do their job, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to push air through. Replacing air filters is an easy task that can improve your home’s air quality and HVAC lifespan.
2. Broken thermostat: If your aging thermostat isn’t reliable, it’s a simple swap to a newer smart thermostat that can save you money and better regulate energy usage.
3. Dirty outdoor unit: If your exterior unit is blocked by debris, it might cause it to fail. After shutting down the system, remove debris, leaves, or branches that might interfere with your system.
4. Air vent cleaning: Help your system function more efficiently by wiping down air vent covers and using a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust even deeper in your vents.

When to Leave It to the Professionals

1. Flooding: if your home’s basement is flooding or you experienced a significant leak in a pipe, shut off the water immediately and call a plumber. Water can do major damage to your home. Spending time trying to resolve the issue on your own may cost you more money and result in more damage to your home.
2. Sewer backups: Sewer line clogs or damages to the line require specialized equipment to make the repair. Professionals like those at Service Today use advanced tools and techniques like video camera pipe inspections to provide fast, effective sewer line repairs or replacements.
3. Gas line repairs: Natural gas is one of the most popular ways to power appliances and systems in your home, but a gas leak is dangerous. If you smell gas, immediately evacuate, call your utility company, 911, and an emergency plumber.
4. Water heater repairs: A licensed professional should repair gas and electric water heaters to prevent hazards and ensure the work is done correctly and completely.

Request Service Today!

Not every plumbing or HVAC issue requires a professional to fix. When in doubt, calling a professional to get the job done will give you peace of mind that the repair is done the right way.

At Service Today, we take the guesswork out of those HVAC and plumbing fixes. Our specialists can inspect, repair, and install your home’s heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical systems.

Call 844-844-0314 now to schedule home services in Maryland, Delaware, or Pennsylvania.