No to DIY: 5 Jobs That You Should Leave to Professional Plumbers

When it comes to maintaining or upgrading your home, it can be tempting to tackle certain tasks yourself. DIY projects are often a way to save both time and money and there are also many people who enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes from fixing things on their own. Additionally, simple fixes like changing a washer on a tap or clearing a minor drain blockage are very much straightforward and can often be done with minimal tools.

However, while some plumbing issues are easily manageable, there are jobs that should always be left to professional plumbers. These tasks are usually far more complex, requiring specialised knowledge, tools, and experience. If you attempt to handle such jobs without the necessary expertise and equipment, it can lead to costly mistakes, unsafe conditions, or even violations of New Zealand’s plumbing regulations. Moreover, professional plumbers are trained to identify underlying problems that might not be obvious at first. This ensures that the work is done correctly, safely, and completely the first time around. 

With this in mind, hiring professional plumbers Dunedin residents trust—just like us here at Mains Plumbers—is a safer and more practical solution than trying to DIY, especially for these plumbing jobs:

1. Water Heater Repairs

Water heaters, whether gas or electric, are complex appliances. Over months or years of use, they can experience malfunctions and issues like faulty thermostats, leaks, or sediment build-up in the tank. In some cases, homeowners may be tempted to try some DIY repairs, especially if the issue seems minor. However, without the proper knowledge, you run the risk of causing electrical shocks, gas leaks, or scalding accidents. 

Furthermore, tampering with water heating systems can void warranties and result in non-compliance with building codes. Water heaters also need to meet specific energy efficiency and safety standards, especially for newer models. Professional plumbers understand all of these factors. With their expertise, they can accurately diagnose issues, repair faults, and ensure that your water heater is functioning safely, efficiently, and legally.

2. Sewer Pipe Switching or Repairs

Dealing with sewer pipe issues, such as blockages or damaged lines, is a job that you should leave to professional plumbers. Barring the more physically demanding parts, digging and replacing a broken sewer pipe yourself can seem easy at first glance. However, this is a complex job that involves more than just replacing the visible section of the pipe. That’s because sewer systems are part of a larger network connected to your local council’s infrastructure. Failed DIY attempts can only cause further damage, improper drainage, and even contamination of the surrounding environment. 

A professional plumber will have the right equipment to handle these kinds of repairs and the knowledge of local council regulations. This ensures the job is done without causing environmental or legal issues.

3. Gas Line Installation and Repairs

Working with gas pipes is one of the riskiest plumbing jobs and should be left to professional plumbers. Gas pipe installations and repairs involve high-pressure systems that, if not correctly installed, can result in leaks, explosions, or carbon monoxide poisoning. These situations pose a danger to individuals in your household, as well as to your property and those nearby. 

In New Zealand, gas fitting is also strictly regulated under the Gas Act 1992, which requires that only licensed gas fitters or plumbers with gas certification perform this work. These professionals are specifically trained to handle the complexities of gas pipe installation and repair. They can ensure that your gas system complies with safety codes, providing peace of mind that everything is both secure and above board.

4. Pipe Replacements and Large Leak Fixes

Minor plumbing leaks are easy to patch, but larger leaks or pipe replacements are far more complicated to do on your own. They need to be addressed properly with the expertise of professional plumbers or else they can cause significant water damage. A major leak can damage your walls, floors, and foundation and even encourage the growth of mould.

Professional plumbers are equipped to replace old and faulty pipes with precision. They can assess the condition of the entire plumbing system, prevent further damage, and install high-quality materials that are built to last. 

5. Bathroom or Kitchen Remodels Involving Plumbing

Renovating your bathroom or kitchen often involves altering the plumbing system to accommodate new fixtures like sinks, toilets, and showers. The plumbing work involved in such projects is highly complex and needs to be done by professional plumbers. 

In particular, if your remodelling project requires you to move pipes or connect new fixtures, you need a professional plumber to do the job. Doing these tasks incorrectly can result in leaks, improper drainage, or even low water pressure throughout the house. Moreover, any plumbing work done as part of a renovation must adhere to strict New Zealand building codes. Working with professional plumbers will ensure that all pipe and fixture installations are completed safely and to code.

For certain plumbing jobs, DIY strategies can often lead to more harm than good. So, if you're facing any of the plumbing issues mentioned above, don't take unnecessary risks and just leave it to the professionals. They have all the knowledge, tools, and certifications needed to ensure that the job is done safely, efficiently, and within legal and professional standards.

 

Contact Mains Plumbers today to ensure the job is done right the first time. We can help you with all your plumbing, drainlaying, and gas fitting needs, whether for residential or light commercial spaces in Dunedin and the greater Otago area.