When it comes to DIY plumbing, everyone knows the basics. We all know how to unclog a toilet or clean out a drain pipe, but what if the problem is a little more complex? Most homeowners can handle the minor DIY plumbing projects, such as the aforementioned scenarios. But, what happens if those harsh drain cleaners are a worry to have sitting around the house or you worry about breathing with their strong smell in the air? Below are a few tips to some very simple DIY plumbing projects, which are followed by information on how to know when to hang up your hat and call a professional.

If you have children or pets in the house, harsh drain cleaners may not be the best products to have in your cabinet. Instead, using a new toilet plunger to unclog those stubborn drains is one of the best kept DIY plumbing secrets in existence. This process works perfectly on a single sink, but gets a little more tricky with double sinks. In the latter situation, you will need someone else to help you and you will need a total of two plungers. Your friend should use one plunger to secure the air from exiting out of the properly working side while you plunge on the sink that is clogged. Depending on the severity of the clog, this may take a few minutes and some strength in using the plunger, but its much safer than using harsh drain cleaners. When plunging a sink, you must take special care to not push so hard that you damage the sink. At the same time, you have to use enough force to unclog the drain. When using this DIY plumbing method, always use a new plunger.

If you are experiencing problems with your toilet, always turn the water off using the knob at the base before proceeding to work with the repair. This will prevent any overflowing or other situation that may hinder your repair efforts.

If water finds its way to the floor of your bathroom, a quick cleanup may make the difference in moisture that eventually leads to a weakened floor or not having any permanent damage. The best way to clean water out of your carpet is by using thick towels to soak up the moisture. Never leave water to dry on its own as this will almost certainly lead to rotting of the floor, which will eventually cause the structure of your floor to weaken.

When it comes to knowing whether or not to work on a DIY plumbing project or call a professional, its best to gauge a number of factors. Among them, your level of experience in repairing similar problems, the time that you have to dedicate to the project and your level of patience. Plumbing can be stressful, especially when it relates to your own home. If you are not comfortable in completing the project correctly or have complete confidence that you can repair a leak without further problems, its best to call a professional. The same is true if you do not have the time needed to correctly make DIY plumbing repairs or the patience needed to make them. Plumbing, like electricity, is essential for your home and family. When it comes to these, nothing but the best will do.