Why You Should Call a Plumber Instead of Doing It Yourself

plumber working on pipes in a bathroom with tools laid out on floor

*Updated on January 24th, 2025

We’ve all been there—facing a clogged drain, a leaky faucet, or a toilet that just won’t stop running. Your first thought might be to grab a wrench, watch a quick DIY video, and handle it yourself. After all, how hard could it be, right?

But before you dive in, it’s worth considering whether doing it yourself is really the best idea. Plumbing might seem straightforward, but even a small mistake can lead to bigger (and more expensive) problems down the line. Calling a professional plumber can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration.

So, before you roll up your sleeves and risk turning a minor issue into a major headache, let’s talk about why bringing in an expert is often the smartest move.

1. Plumbers Have the Right Tools and Equipment

The average homeowner does not have the specialized tools and equipment that plumbers use on a daily basis. Plumbers invest in high-quality gear that allows them to properly diagnose and repair all types of plumbing problems. They have cable machines for snaking drains, camera systems for inspecting pipes, leak detectors, pipe cutters, basin wrenches, and more. With their arsenal of equipment, plumbers can get to the root of the issue and fix it efficiently. If you try to tackle a plumbing repair yourself without the right tools, you’ll likely just create a bigger mess.

2. Plumbers Have Extensive Technical Knowledge and Training

Qualified plumbers complete extensive training and apprenticeships to obtain their plumbing license. This gives them in-depth knowledge of plumbing codes, pipe systems, drainage, water pressure, and more. When you call a licensed plumber, you can trust that they have the technical expertise to correctly identify problems and make repairs up to code. Attempting complex plumbing repairs without training puts you at risk of injuries, code violations, and improper work that could lead to bigger issues down the road.

3. Plumbers Can Prevent Costly Mistakes

Botched DIY plumbing repairs can be expensive. When you make mistakes working on your own plumbing, you often have to call a plumber anyway to fix your errors, costing you double. Plumbers get the job done right the first time, preventing costly redo’s, injuries, and property damage from water leaks or flooding. Their experience allows them to work quickly and efficiently without creating bigger problems.  Protect your home, time, money, and safety by calling a professional plumber to handle repairs safely and effectively.

4. Plumbers Offer Warranties and Guarantees

Reputable plumbing  companies offer warranties  and guarantees on their work, while DIY repairs come with no such protection. If a licensed plumber repairs your plumbing but issues arise later, you can call them back out at no additional cost to re-address the problem during the warranty period. This provides peace of mind that your repair will last. If you make mistakes trying to fix the issue on your own, you have no recourse but to pay for another repair.

5. Plumbers Have Access to Quality Parts and Materials

Plumbers maintain relationships with reliable suppliers to source quality  replacement parts and materials for repairs. They know which specific makes and models will stand the test of time based on their experience. Homeowners trying DIY repairs often end up with cheap parts from the hardware store that fail quickly. Professional plumbers have everything they need to fix your plumbing correctly with parts built to last.

6. Plumbers Save You Time and Hassle

Trying to fix plumbing issues on your own can be time-consuming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the problem. Between researching solutions, gathering tools, and troubleshooting, what seems like a simple fix can eat up your entire weekend. Professional plumbers can diagnose and resolve issues quickly, saving you valuable time and sparing you the frustration of trial and error.

7. Health and Safety Considerations

Plumbing issues such as mold growth, sewage backups, or contaminated water can pose health risks to your family. A professional plumber knows how to handle these situations safely, preventing exposure to harmful bacteria, toxic materials, and structural hazards.

8. Professional Plumbers Can Identify Underlying Issues

What may seem like a minor plumbing issue could actually be a symptom of a larger, hidden problem. Professional plumbers have the expertise to identify underlying issues, such as hidden leaks, corroded pipes, or poor water pressure, before they turn into costly repairs.

Conclusion

Sure, fixing a dripping faucet or unclogging a drain might seem like an easy weekend project, but plumbing is often more complicated than it looks. What starts as a simple fix can quickly spiral into a bigger (and more expensive) mess if things go wrong. That’s why calling a professional plumber is always the smarter move.

Plumbers come equipped with the right tools, quality materials, and years of training to diagnose and fix plumbing issues correctly the first time. They know how to spot potential problems before they turn into costly disasters and can ensure everything is done safely and up to code. Plus, with warranties and guarantees on their work, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your plumbing is in expert hands.

At the end of the day, hiring a licensed plumber saves you time, money, and stress. Instead of spending hours watching DIY tutorials or making repeated trips to the hardware store, let the pros handle it. Whether it’s a small repair or a major installation, protecting your home and your wallet starts with one simple step—picking up the phone and calling a professional plumber.

FAQs

Are there any common misconceptions about DIY plumbing repairs that people should be aware of?

Yes, there are several common misconceptions about DIY plumbing repairs that people should be aware of. One of the most significant misconceptions is that many believe plumbing  problems can be easily fixed  with basic tools and a DIY mindset. However, plumbing systems are complex, and attempting to address issues without the proper knowledge and experience can lead to bigger and more costly problems. It’s essential to understand that not all plumbing problems have simple solutions, and some require the expertise of a professional plumber.

How can hiring a professional plumber potentially save homeowners time and stress?

Hiring a professional plumber can save homeowners both time and stress in several ways. First and foremost, plumbers have the right tools and equipment to efficiently diagnose and repair plumbing issues, which means the job is completed more quickly than if a homeowner were to attempt it themselves. Additionally, homeowners can avoid the stress and frustration of troubleshooting and potentially making mistakes that could worsen the problem. With a professional plumber, you can trust that the issue will be resolved correctly and promptly, reducing stress and saving you valuable time.

What are some of the safety risks associated with attempting DIY plumbing repairs without the proper knowledge and equipment?

Attempting DIY plumbing repairs without the proper knowledge and equipment can pose significant safety risks. One of the primary dangers is the risk of injury. Plumbing systems often involve working with sharp tools, hot water, and potentially harmful chemicals. Without the right training and safety precautions, homeowners can suffer cuts, burns, or chemical exposure. Moreover, there’s a risk of causing water damage to your home. A minor mistake in a  DIY plumbing project  can result in water leaks or flooding, leading to costly property damage and potential mold growth. Additionally, working with plumbing systems without proper knowledge can lead to code violations, which can result in fines and legal issues.

Are there any specific plumbing issues that homeowners should never attempt to fix themselves, no matter how small they may seem?

Yes, there are certain plumbing issues that homeowners should never attempt to fix themselves, regardless of how small they may appear. Issues related to the main sewer line, gas lines, or major water supply lines should always be left to professional plumbers. These problems require specialized knowledge and equipment and can have severe consequences if mishandled. Even seemingly minor issues with these critical components can quickly escalate into major emergencies.

Additional Plumbing Resources