Whether you have a gas leak or are repairing/installing a gas appliance, the gas supply needs to be shut off. Depending on the type, locating and using a gas shutoff valve can be intimidating to the inexperienced. Although there are different types of supply valves, it’s essential to know how to locate and shut off your gas in case of emergencies. Whether it’s an emergency or you simply need to show the line to a licensed plumber, the ability to locate a gas shutoff valve is essential.
7 Plumbing Projects to Never Try
1. Installing a Fan for a Bathroom
Highly effective at protecting against humidity and moisture, a bath fan requires a professional to install. The job often involves venting the fan to the outside, which can involve the complicated process of installing an exhaust hood, and even cutting a hole in the roof. Electrical wiring may need to be modified as well.
2. Adding a Glass Shower
So, you’ve dreamed of having your own glass shower and found a pre-cut glass shower door and other materials at your local home improvement store. Does that mean you’re ready to perform a DIY installation? Consider the fact glass doors can weigh hundreds of pounds, and those precise measurements are needed to ensure the door and fixtures work, and that there are no leaks. One mistake and this plumbing project can leave you with a flood and hundreds to thousands of dollars in damage if something big breaks.
3. Fixing a Flood
An overflow from a sink or toilet, or water pouring out of somewhere it shouldn’t, is often due to more than a simple blockage. You can’t just pull out some gunk to fix the problem. The clog or break may be too far down the pipe, unless you have the proper equipment and expertise, to address it. In fact, the source could be outside your home, underground, where tree roots might have invaded a pipeline. Trying to fix this yourself can result in more damage and flooding.
4. Addressing a Drain Sewer Line Clog
Drain clogs are sometimes caused by issues deep in the sewer line. These can’t be fixed with store-bought drain cleaners, which have chemicals that can eat away at the inside of the pipe. A professional plumber is able to access sewer lines directly and has the tools and machinery to correct the underlying problem effectively and safely.
5. Installing a Plumbing Appliance
Plumbing appliances are heavy and complex. You can’t safely install a water heater without the right equipment. Plus, it involves electrical work, in an installation environment that requires working with 240 volts of electricity. And don’t try to fix an issue with such an appliance; you could break it and possibly void the warranty.
6. Working on Gas Lines
If there’s a gas leak, you’ll notice the tell-tale rotten egg smell. You should not be in your home, let alone stay and try to fix a gas line yourself. The exposure can be extremely dangerous, or the fumes can cause an explosion. Evacuate and call a plumber certified and experienced in dealing with natural gas.
7. Modifying the Structure/Plumbing System
If internal piping needs to be serviced, oftentimes it’s necessary to break walls or do some digging. Remodeling projects often involve working near load-bearing structural elements. If a wall or load-bearing beam behind it is unintentionally disturbed, you could trigger a devastating collapse. Call a professional who knows what they’re doing for such jobs.
Contact Express Plumbing Services
As Boise’s #1 plumbing service company, we can manage any plumbing project, whether it involves a remodel or servicing your bathroom, sinks/faucets, drains, water heater, or pipes. We also employ advanced leak detection methods to find issues and correct them quickly. For information on our services, specials, financing options, and protection plans, call us today.
