We love a good DIY project — painting a room, building a deck, maybe even fixing a leaky faucet. But when it comes to your home’s plumbing system, some jobs are better left to the pros.
Sure, YouTube can teach you a lot — but one wrong move can turn a simple fix into a major headache. Here are a few plumbing problems you should always leave to the professionals (and why).
1. Persistent Leaks or Hidden Water Damage
A slow drip might seem harmless, but over time it can waste gallons of water and cause expensive damage behind your walls or floors.
If you notice:
- Discolored drywall or ceilings
- Musty smells
- Soft or warped flooring
It’s time to call a plumber.
Jake’s Tip: Water travels — the leak you see isn’t always where it started. Our pros use advanced leak detection tools to find the source before it causes more damage.
2. Recurring Drain Clogs
A plunger can handle the occasional clog, but if your drains are slow or backing up regularly, there’s likely a deeper issue.
It could be:
- A blockage in your main sewer line
- Tree roots invading your pipes
- Collapsed or misaligned drain lines
These problems need professional equipment — not over-the-counter drain cleaners.
Jake’s Tip: Chemical cleaners can corrode your pipes and make the problem worse. A camera inspection gives you real answers, fast.
3. Water Heater Repairs or Replacement
Your water heater is one of the most important (and dangerous) systems in your home. If it’s leaking, making noise, or not heating properly, leave it to licensed plumbers who can safely handle gas lines, electrical connections, and pressure relief valves.
Jake’s Tip: Never attempt to replace a water heater yourself — it’s a job that requires proper venting, safety checks, and city permits in many areas.
4. Low Pressure Throughout the House
If one faucet has low pressure, it could be a simple aerator issue. But if the whole house is affected, it might point to:
- Corroded pipes
- Pressure regulator failure
- A hidden leak or water main issue
Diagnosing these takes professional testing equipment and experience — guesswork can lead to major damage.
Jake’s Tip: Consistently low pressure can be an early warning sign of a failing system. We’ll pinpoint the cause and fix it before it escalates.
5. Sewer Line Backups or Odors
This is one job no homeowner wants to tackle alone. Sewer issues can cause unpleasant smells, standing water, and even health hazards. Professional plumbers can locate blockages using cameras and hydro-jetting equipment that safely clears the entire line.
Jake’s Tip: If you smell sewage in your yard or basement, call immediately. Waiting could lead to structural damage or contamination.
6. Frozen or Burst Pipes
In Indiana winters, frozen pipes are a common (and expensive) issue. Trying to thaw them with a torch or hair dryer can cause the pipe to burst or start a fire. Professional plumbers know how to safely thaw and repair pipes — and prevent them from freezing again.
Jake’s Tip: Prevention is cheaper than repair. Ask about our winter plumbing check to keep your home safe before temperatures drop.
Frequently Asked Questions About When to Call a Plumber
1. How do I know if I can fix a plumbing issue myself?
Simple maintenance like tightening a loose faucet handle or unclogging a small drain is fine for DIY. But if it involves hidden pipes, pressure systems, or gas connections, call a professional.
2. Why shouldn’t I use chemical drain cleaners?
They may work temporarily, but they corrode metal and plastic pipes — leading to leaks and expensive repairs later. A professional cleaning is safer and longer-lasting.
3. What’s the cost difference between DIY and hiring a pro?
DIY might seem cheaper upfront, but a mistake can cause thousands in water damage. A small leak that costs $200 to fix professionally could become a $2,000 flooring repair if ignored or done incorrectly.
4. How often should I have my plumbing inspected?
We recommend a plumbing check-up once a year — especially before winter. It’s the best way to catch small issues before they turn into big problems.
Call Jake Before You DIY
We get it — homeowners love to save time and money. But when it comes to your plumbing, peace of mind is worth it.
Let us handle the heavy lifting while you focus on keeping your home safe and comfortable – jakemillerplumbing.com
Fast Service. Fair Price. Family Values. That’s what makes us your Plumber for Life.
