A leaky faucet is one of the commonest plumbing problems you can expect to experience at some point. Although it appears simple, you really should not attempt Faucet Repair and Installation in Brooklyn NY on your own, as the job might be more challenging than you envisaged.
Unconvinced as to why you shouldn’t attempt a DIY repair of your leaky faucet? Find all the information you need to know below.
Faucets come in different types
There are many things to consider when attempting a DIY faucet fix. You should consider the type of faucet, the different parts, and how complicated the problem can be to fix. In most cases, fixing a leaky faucet won’t be as simple as you imagined, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the different types and parts.
For example, the common faucets include the ceramic disc faucet, ball, compression, and cartridge faucet. Each of these faucet types requires a different approach when fixing them. They also have different parts that function differently, thus putting you at a loss and rendering your knowledge of fixing a different type of faucet useless.
Faucet repair requires the right tools
Like any other repair process, you need the right tools to pull a faucet repair job off. Some common tools you need include different screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, the right plumbers’ grease, a light source or beam, replacement parts, a camera, and more.
These tools don’t come cheap and may cost you a few hundred dollars to acquire. Having the tools also does not guarantee that you’d use them properly. The chances of damaging other parts of your faucet exist, and this may cost you a lot more to fix than you budgeted.
The right fixing procedure
Most DIY tutorials online are taught by trained plumbers with years of experience doing such repairs. This means they’ll move faster due to residual knowledge and years of experience, thus making tasks look simpler than they naturally are for a layman.
You may find that you didn’t follow the right repair or installation procedure, which may complicate the entire process. However, if you must attempt a DIY faucet repair, ensure to start by turning off the water valve supplying the leaky faucet. Failure to do this can lead to a mini water disaster during the repair process.
Faucet repairs can take time
Attempting to fix your faucet the DIY way can take your valuable time and energy. You may end up frustrated by the process, especially after disassembling the parts and having trouble recoupling them. If you must attempt a DIY fix, it is recommended that you take photos of each part before uncoupling them. You can also set up a video recording of the decoupling process to help you trace your steps back.
Certainly, this will take your valuable time and may further inconvenience your family, especially as they can’t use the faucet until you’re done fixing them. Remember, there’s no guarantee that you will have successfully fixed the problem at the end of the task.
Considering the factors above, you would agree that hiring a professional plumber will save you time and money while restoring functionality to the affected faucet. If, however, you’re wondering what your professional plumber is likely to fix, below are the common reasons your faucet may be leaking.
Damaged parts: Damaged parts may be due to age, wear and tear, frequency of use, or abuse. The seal is one of the commonest culprits and can easily be replaced to stop the leaks. Whatever part is affected or the cause of the damaged part, your professional plumber can easily diagnose the problem, identify the damaged part, and replace them.
Damaged cartridge: Leaks in cartridge faucets can often be traced back to damaged cartridges. Your professional plumber can tell the specific model of your faucet’s cartridge and may be able to get an exact match replacement for it. Note that DIY repairs are often riddled with wrong cartridge choices, which can cost you more money and disappointments.
Damaged plumbing: Sometimes, your faucet’s problem isn’t any of its parts. It is simply due to a plumbing issue that may have degenerated over time. Your professional plumber can always advise on the next line of action when your leaky faucet is traced to plumbing damage. Possible solutions could be in the form of plumbing repairs or pipe replacements. Irrespective of the solution recommended, you shouldn’t attempt to DIY things to avoid further damaging your plumbing system.
Water pressure: High water pressure can also cause your faucet to leak. This problem can usually be fixed by checking on your water inlet valve. However, your professional plumber can address problems arising from damaged water valves.