Should You Call a Plumber or Fix It Yourself?

When a plumbing issue pops up, your first thought might be: Should I try to fix this myself or call a plumber? It’s a valid question—and the answer depends on several key factors like your experience, the severity of the issue, and how much time you’re willing to invest.

At Wade’s Plumbing & Septic, we’ve seen it all—from successful DIY fixes to costly damage caused by well-meaning homeowners. Let’s break down when it makes sense to tackle a plumbing job yourself—and when it’s best to bring in the professionals.

1. Consider Your Plumbing Knowledge and Experience

Ask yourself: Do I know what I’m doing?

If you’ve never dealt with a plumbing issue before or aren’t familiar with the tools and materials involved, DIY repairs can quickly go sideways. Plumbing systems can be deceptively complex, and a small mistake can lead to a bigger mess (and a higher repair bill).

On the other hand, if you’ve got experience and you’ve successfully handled similar plumbing problems in the past, a basic repair might be within reach. Common DIY-friendly jobs include:

• Replacing a faucet washer
• Unclogging a sink with a plunger
• Tightening a loose supply line

But when in doubt, it’s better to call the pros at Wade’s Plumbing & Septic to avoid causing unnecessary damage.

2. Evaluate the Severity of the Problem

Not all plumbing problems are created equal. Some minor issues can be handled with a wrench and a little know-how. Others, however, require specialized tools, training, and safety precautions.

Here’s a quick guide:

Trying to fix serious problems—like a broken pipe or backflow issue—on your own can be risky and expensive. A licensed plumber will know how to handle these situations safely and effectively.

3. Weigh the Time and Cost

DIY plumbing may save you on labor costs, but it’s not always the cheapest route in the long run—especially if a mistake leads to property damage or water leaks.

Ask yourself:

• How much is my time worth?
• Do I have the right tools?
• What happens if I make it worse?

In many cases, hiring a professional plumber not only gets the job done faster, but also ensures the repair is done correctly the first time—saving you money, stress, and repeat visits to the hardware store.

When in Doubt, Call Wade’s Plumbing & Septic

If you’re on the fence about a plumbing repair—or if you’ve already tried a DIY fix that didn’t hold—don’t risk further damage. Let the experts at Wade’s Plumbing & Septic handle it for you.

We proudly serve Santa Cruz, Capitola, Soquel, Aptos, Watsonville, and nearby communities with trusted, same-day plumbing services. From drain cleaning to pipe repairs, we’re just a phone call away.

📞 Call Wade’s Plumbing & Septic today at (831) 225-4344