DIY Plumbing: Simple Jobs Any New Homeowner Can Tackle

If you're a new homeowner, learning a few basic plumbing repairs can go a long way. Taking on do-it-yourself (DIY) plumbing projects can save money, reduce stress, and help you spot problems early before they cost an arm and a leg to fix. This guide walks you through DIY plumbing basics for beginners so you can feel confident in your skills.

Fixing a Leaky Faucet

A dripping faucet is not only annoying, but it will cause higher water bills. Fortunately, fixing a leaky faucet is usually an easy DIY plumbing repair.

Tools Needed:

• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdriver
• Replacement washers or cartridges
• Plumber’s grease

Steps:

1. Turn off the water supply under the sink, both hot and cold.
2. Plug the drain to avoid losing small parts.
3. Remove the faucet handle with the screwdriver, and use a wrench to loosen the faucet assembly.
4. Replace the old washer or cartridge that controls the water flow.
5. Apply plumber’s grease to the new parts as needed.
6. Reassemble everything, and you're all set!

Replacing a Showerhead

Swapping out an old showerhead for a new one can improve your shower experience and conserve water. And you don’t even need to learn plumbing to do it!

Tools Needed:

• Adjustable wrench
• Rag
• Teflon tape
• New showerhead

Steps: 

1. Unscrew the old showerhead using a wrench and rag for grip. 
2. Support the shower arm to prevent it from turning while you loosen the showerhead.
3. Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the shower arm for a good seal
4. Screw on the new showerhead, and tighten gently with the wrench. It’s that simple!

Unclogging Drains

Clogged drains are a common issue in many households. Luckily, you can usually unclog a drain without professional help with this DIY plumbing advice.

Tools Needed:

• Sink Plunger
• Plumber’s snake
• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Boiling water

Steps: 

1. Start with a plunger, placing it over the drain to try and use suction to clear the clog. Be sure to cover the overflow drain with a rag or tape while plunging.
2. If plunging doesn’t work, try using boiling water to get rid of grease and soap buildup. 
3. Only use boiling water in sinks made of stainless steel or porcelain over steel. It can warp or crack other materials.
4. If that doesn’t work, pour a mix of vinegar and baking soda down the drain, wait a few minutes, then rinse with hot water.
5. For tougher clogs, use a hand auger snake to clear the pipes.

Fixing a Running Toilet

A running toilet can waste a lot of water. Luckily, fixing a running toilet is one of the most basic plumbing repairs you can do yourself.

Tools Needed:

• Replacement flapper or fill valve
• Screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench

Steps: 

1. Shut off the water and flush the toilet to empty the tank.
2. Replace the old flapper first. If that doesn’t fix the leak, replace the valve with a new one.
3. Adjust the flapper’s chain length if necessary.
4. Turn the water back on and test the flush to ensure everything works correctly.

Installing a New Kitchen Sink

Installing a new kitchen sink is a little more involved than some of these other projects. However, it’s still one of the DIY plumbing repairs you can do on your own if you’re comfortable using hand tools and can follow detailed instructions.

Tools Needed:

• Basin wrench
• Pipe wrench
• Plumber’s putty or silicone caulk
• Screwdriver
• Bucket
• Adjustable wrench
• Teflon tape

Steps:

1. Turn off the water supply and disconnect the water lines and drain pipe.
2. Remove the old sink by loosening the mounting clips and cutting the sealant.
3. Clean the countertop and apply plumber’s putty around the new sink rim.
4. Lower the new sink into place and secure it with mounting clips.
5. Reconnect the drain and water supply lines with Teflon tape as needed.
6. Turn the water back on and check for leaks.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Not every issue can be handled with do-it-yourself plumbing repairs. There are many times it’s worth it to call in a professional. Here are signs you should call in the pros:

• Multiple drains are backing up at once
• You smell sewage in or around your home
• You suspect a pipe has burst
• There’s low water pressure throughout the house
• DIY attempts made the problem worse

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, Roto-Rooter is at your service. Our licensed plumbers can diagnose your issues, provide professional-level solutions, and even explain how to fix DIY plumbing mistakes.

FAQs About DIY Plumbing

Is it legal to do your own plumbing?

In most areas, homeowners are allowed to handle minor plumbing repairs themselves. However, local codes vary, and permits may be required for major changes. To know if DIY plumbing is illegal in your area, always check with your municipality before starting big projects.

Is it hard to do plumbing yourself?

Before asking yourself if you can do plumbing yourself, be honest about your skills and knowledge. Do you know how to use common plumbing tools? Or is the extent of your DIY skill knowing how to change a lightbulb? In that case, you might want to call in a professional.

Is DIY plumbing worth it?

Fixing small issues around your house can be worth it if you know how to do DIY plumbing. Fixing small problems early can prevent larger, more expensive repairs down the road. However, if you don’t know what you’re doing, there’s a chance you could make the problem worse.

Plumber vs. DIY for Plumbing Repairs

While plumbing may seem daunting at first, start with these simple tasks. You’ll gain confidence and better understand how things work in your new home. Whether you’re tightening a connection or unclogging a drain, learning basic plumbing repairs gives you more control as a homeowner. Start with the simple stuff, stay safe, and when you need a hand, Roto-Rooter is just a call away.

Call the professionals at Roto-Rooter for reliable assistance on any plumbing project.