Why DIY Plumbing Repairs Cost More in the Long Run
If you take pride in being handy around the house, you may assume you can save money by tackling plumbing problems yourself. This may be true for simple fixes like plunging the toilet, replacing the toilet flapper, or removing hair from the shower drain. However, more complex drain cleaning, sewer line repair, and other services are best left to a licensed plumber. Here’s why attempting a DIY plumbing repair could be more costly than hiring a professional.
Major Plumbing Repairs Require Specialized Equipment
You probably keep a plunger on hand, and you may even have a hand-crank drain snake. But you most likely don’t have access to a heavy-duty electric plumbing auger, high-tech sewer line camera, or trenchless sewer repair equipment. These are just a few of the tools professional plumbers have in their arsenal.
Even if you can find professional-level tools, you have to pay to rent or purchase them. Then, you must learn how to use them properly. For most people, it’s more cost-effective and time-efficient to hire an expert who is already trained to use specialized plumbing equipment.
Improper Repairs Can Cause More Damage
Water can be highly destructive, whether you have a slow leak or a major flood from a burst pipe. To avoid further property damage, plumbing repairs must be completed correctly the first time around. If your DIY repair attempt fails, you could end up with water damage on top of everything else. As a result, you will probably have a higher repair bill than if you had called a professional for help in the first place.
Insurance Companies May Deny Coverage
If a botched attempt at fixing your plumbing system floods your home or causes other property damage, your insurance company may refuse to cover the repair costs. Check your policy, and you’ll likely discover that damage resulting from an improper plumbing repair is only covered if a licensed plumber is to blame. Otherwise, you’ll be left to foot the bill yourself.
DIY Repairs Void Your Warranty Coverage
Most toilets, faucets, water heaters, and other plumbing fixtures come with manufacturer warranties. However, if you damage yours while attempting a DIY plumbing repair, you won’t be able to file a warranty claim. Your coverage is now void, leaving you responsible for the full cost of repairs and replacements, whether they relate to the problem you attempted to fix or not.
Clearly, you’re more likely to save money in the long run if you hire a plumber instead of attempting a DIY repair. So the next time you face a complex plumbing problem, turn to All Star Service and Repair. We provide expert plumbing services in Salt Lake County, drawing on over 60 years of combined experience to ensure a job well done. We can tackle any problem you’re having, from low water pressure and pipe leaks to clogged drains and backed-up sewer systems. Give us a call at (801) 792-2428 to request 24-hour plumbing repair in Salt Lake City, Sandy, Murray, Provo, and Orem.