DIY vs. Hiring a Plumber: When to Grab the Wrench—and When to Call Us
When something goes wrong with your plumbing, the first question is usually: Can I fix this myself—or is it time to call in the pros?
Sometimes the answer is obvious. Sometimes, not so much.
Let’s break down the difference between the kinds of jobs you can probably tackle on your own—and the ones where it’s smarter (and cheaper in the long run) to call in a licensed plumber like My Georgia Plumber.
DIY Plumbing: Where It Makes Sense
You don’t need a license to fix a leaky faucet—and if you’ve got some tools and a bit of know-how, there’s no reason not to handle the little stuff yourself. Just make sure you’re being realistic about your experience level and the tools you’ve got on hand.
A few safe, simple DIY jobs:
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Replacing a worn-out washer in a dripping faucet
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Using a plunger or hand auger to clear a clogged drain
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Adjusting the water pressure in a shower
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Tightening a loose supply line or valve
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Swapping out a garbage disposal (if you’ve done it before)
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Stopping a running toilet by fixing the flapper or float
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Wrapping plumber’s tape around a small pipe-thread connection to stop a minor drip
Must-have tools for basic DIY plumbing:
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Plunger
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Pipe wrench
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Pliers
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Screwdrivers
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Hand auger (a.k.a. plumbing snake)
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Plumber’s tape (Teflon)
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Bucket, towels, and a flashlight (you’ll thank yourself later)
If you know your way around those tools and have done a few basic repairs before, go for it.
But if you find yourself watching the same YouTube video four times in a row and still wondering what’s leaking… it might be time to call backup.
Why Hiring a Licensed Plumber Is Worth It
Not everything can—or should—be a DIY project. Especially when:
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You’re dealing with hidden leaks or persistent water damage
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There’s low pressure across your whole house
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You smell gas near a water heater or appliance
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You need to cut into walls, floors, or slabs to access pipes
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You’re replacing anything that connects to the main line
Here’s what a pro brings to the table:
1. Real Solutions—Not Temporary Fixes
We’ve seen a lot of “quick fixes” that turned into expensive disasters six months later. Our team doesn’t just fix the symptom—we find and resolve the root of the issue so it stays fixed.
2. Less Stress, Less Risk
Let’s face it—plumbing is messy. We know how to do it cleanly, quickly, and with as little disruption to your home as possible. We also show up with the right tools the first time.
3. Insurance and Peace of Mind
Our plumbers are licensed, trained, and fully insured. That means if something goes wrong on the job (which rarely happens), you’re protected. Hiring an unlicensed or uninsured handyman? Not so much.
4. We Catch Problems You Didn’t Know You Had
One of the biggest advantages of bringing in a pro is spotting early signs of wear, corrosion, or outdated parts that could fail later. It’s about preventing future repairs, not just reacting to current ones.
5. Code Compliance and Permits
Plumbing isn’t just pipes—it’s also paperwork. We know what needs a permit, what doesn’t, and how to keep your home compliant with local code. That’s especially important for home sales or insurance.
So… When Should You Call My Georgia Plumber?
Here’s the rule of thumb: if you’re not sure what’s behind the wall—or under the floor—it’s time to call us.
At My Georgia Plumber, we handle everything from minor leaks to major installations, and we’ll always give you honest advice on whether a job really needs a pro or if it’s something you can handle yourself.
If it’s something simple, we’ll tell you. If it’s not, we’ll handle it fast and get it done right the first time.
📞 Need help? Call us at 770-592-0081 or book an appointment online.
Let us take the stress out of your plumbing issues—so you can focus on what actually matters.
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