When you own a home, you can expect both routine maintenance and occasional repairs to keep your plumbing system functioning in tip-top condition. Some maintenance and repair is fairly simple and may not require the services of a professional plumber. But there are other times when it’s really in your best interests to bring the pros in right away. Here are some tips for knowing when you need experienced plumbing assistance.
Leaking Water Faucets
Sometimes fixing a dripping faucet can be as simple as replacing a worn out washer, but it’s often not that simple. Depending on the type of faucet you have, you may not have the specialized tools you need to stop the leak. In addition, if you’ve let the drip go for a significant period of time, you may have corrosion on the valve seat or it may be too worn to properly function anymore. In that case, you will be best served by calling a licensed plumber.
Furthermore, if you have a ceramic tap, there’s typically a durable ceramic plate in lieu of a washer, which is a far more complicated repair.
Toilet Repair
Many toilet problems can be fixed by replacing the innards in the tank—make certain you turn off the water first!! However, if that doesn’t work, it’s probably a sign of a more serious problem, such as sediment buildup or a hidden leak. That’s the time to call the pros.
Plugged or Slow Drains
If you have a sink or toilet that’s clogged, try using a plunger. If that doesn’t work, it’s time to call a plumber. Many of the commercially available compounds to break up clogs have caustic materials that can cause significant damage to your plumbing system. In addition, they may have chemicals that can be hazardous to your health.
Leaking Pipes
More often than not, a pipe leak will occur at a joint. You can go to the hardware store and get some joint filler or compound (or even some Teflon tape), but it will only be a temporary fix. Depending on where the leak is and how much you use that pipe, you may want to contact a professional right away, so that you don’t end up putting a new band-aid on the problem every few months.
Public Service Plumbers
5610 Dyer Street
Dallas, Texas 75206
(214) 753-4633
We offer plumbing installation and repair services to individuals and businesses throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area, including Highland Park, University Park, Preston Hollow, Lakewood, Lake Highlands, Richardson, Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Allen, Coppell, Garland, Mesquite, Addison, Kessler Park, Farmers Branch, Grapevine, Southlake, Flower Mound and Lewisville.