Time to Call A Plumbing Professional?

Spring is the perfect time to get out the toolbox and tinker with all the small tasks you’ve been putting off around the house.  Sure, we all have a little DIY-er in us from time to time but when do you know that it’s time to call in a professional?  For instance, in regards to plumbing, most homeowners possess the ability to fix a leaking kitchen or bathroom faucet.  Or is it really that simple?

Fixing a Leaking Faucet

If you’ve got about an hour’s time this task is doable, but you first must determine where the leak originates, what type of faucet you have and you must locate the proper replacement parts.  For most, this requires a trip to the hardware store, so tack on additional time for travel and shopping.  Of course you must also have access to the correct tools for repair; most commonly needed is a screwdriver, set of Allen wrenches and pliers.

Next, you need to turn off the water supply to the faucet via the shut off valves under the sink or you can turn off the home’s entire water supply via the main shut off valve.  After the water is shut off, open the faucet to relieve water pressure.  Then prep the sink by covering the drain with a rag or cloth to prevent any parts from going down it while you work.

Now you’re ready to disassemble the faucet and remove the parts.  Pay close attention to the order and placement of the parts as you will need to reassemble them.  As you take apart the faucet, check for any deteriorating parts that may be worn and in need of replacement or cleaning.  Take the damaged parts with you to the hardware store or clean the slightly worn parts with vinegar and flush the faucet out before use.

If this “simple” fix is too complicated for your skills, call a professional.  Guardian Plumbing can quickly fix your minor plumbing problems.  They also repair major plumbing problems and offer a 24 hour repair service and free estimates. Contact Guardian Plumbing of Annapolis, MD to help with your spring home maintenance.