When to Consult a Professional Plumber | Wild Card Handyman, LLC

Know your limits and stay safe

Before you reach for your toolbox, remember these important tips:

Locate your main shutoff valve: In an emergency, knowing where to shut off the water to your entire house is the most critical piece of information. Individual fixtures, like sinks and toilets, also have their own shutoff valves.
Shut off water and power: Always turn off the water supply to the area you're working on. If you're working near electrical outlets, shut off the power to that circuit as well.
Invest in the right tools: A few essential tools, like a plunger, pipe wrench, basin wrench, and pipe tape, will cover most minor repairs.
Avoid chemical drain cleaners: These products often don't solve the problem, and their caustic nature can damage your pipes. They also create a hazardous environment for any plumber who may need to work on the clog later.
Don't overtighten: Hand-tighten connections first, then use a wrench for a final, gentle tightening. Overtightening can crack fixtures or damage fittings.

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Tackling the most common minor plumbing fixes

A persistently running toilet

A toilet that runs constantly can waste thousands of gallons of water and increase your water bill.

The diagnosis: The most likely culprit is a faulty flapper—the rubber seal at the bottom of the tank. Over time, these can wear out or lose their seal.
The fix: Shut off the water supply and flush the toilet to empty the tank. Disconnect the old flapper from the flush lever chain and unclip it from the overflow tube. Take the old flapper with you to the hardware store to find a matching replacement. Install the new flapper, adjust the chain for the proper amount of slack, and restore the water supply.

A leaky faucet

A dripping faucet is more than just an annoyance; it can waste a significant amount of water.

The diagnosis: Leaks are usually caused by worn-out washers, seals, or gaskets.
The fix (double-handle faucet): Turn off the water supply. Plug the sink drain to avoid losing any small parts. Use a screwdriver to pry off the decorative cap on the handle, unscrew it, and pull the handle off. Use a wrench to remove the valve stem and replace the O-rings and washer on the stem. Add a little plumber's grease before reassembling. It's often best to replace all parts with a faucet repair kit.

A clogged drain

Whether it's a slow drain or a complete blockage, clogs are a frustrating but fixable issue.

The diagnosis: The clog is most likely located in the drain trap below the sink.
The fix (for sinks): First, try using a plunger. Block any overflow drains and fill the sink with a few inches of water before plunging. If that doesn't work, place a bucket underneath the P-trap to catch water and remove it with a wrench. Clear any debris you find inside and use a wire brush to clean the inside of the pipe. If the clog is further down the pipe, use a drain snake (auger) to reach and clear it.

A leak under the sink

Leaks under the sink are a common problem that can be caused by loose connections or a damaged gasket.

The diagnosis: Water often appears first on the floor of the cabinet, potentially causing extensive water damage if ignored.
The fix: Empty the cabinet and use a flashlight to locate the source of the drip. Turn off the water at the shutoff valve and use a wrench to gently tighten the connection. If tightening doesn't fix it, the gasket may be worn out. Disconnect the pipes, replace the old gasket with a new one, and reconnect them. Use plumber's tape on the threads of pipe connections to create a better seal.

When to call in a professional

For complex issues, it is always best to consult a professional plumber. Signs that a problem is beyond a simple DIY fix include: