January 19/2026
5 Plumbing Fixes You Can Totally Do Yourself (And 3 You Definitely Shouldn't)
Homeowners often surprise themselves with how many small plumbing issues they can handle without calling in a professional. A few basic tools, a little patience, and the right guidance can solve many minor problems. That said, some plumbing challenges require a trained plumber to prevent costly water damage, safety hazards, or violations of local building codes. Knowing the difference is critical. Below are five plumbing fixes most homeowners can perform confidently—and three situations where you should immediately reach out to a qualified plumbing repair service like Mr. Rooter Plumbing.
5 Plumbing Fixes You Can Handle Yourself
1. Unclogging a Slow Drain
Slow-moving drains are one of the most common kitchen & bathroom plumbing complaints. Hair, soap scum, grease, and food debris all contribute to gradual buildup. Fortunately, most clogs near the drain opening can be handled with a plunger, drain snake, or simple removal of the drain stopper for a quick cleaning. Avoid chemical drain cleaners, which can damage your pipes. Mechanical cleaning is almost always safer and more effective.
2. Fixing a Running Toilet
A running toilet wastes both water and money. However, the cause is usually simple: a faulty flapper, an improperly adjusted float, or a worn-out fill valve. These components are inexpensive and designed for straightforward replacement. With a quick online video or step-by-step guide, most homeowners can restore proper toilet function in under 15 minutes.
3. Replacing a Showerhead
Mineral buildup or outdated fixtures can produce weak or uneven water pressure. Swapping out a showerhead is an easy fix that requires little more than an adjustable wrench and plumber’s tape. Upgrading this small but essential fixture can dramatically improve your bathing experience without calling a plumbing repair service.
4. Stopping a Dripping Faucet
A dripping faucet typically comes down to a worn-out O-ring or cartridge. These components are accessible and affordable, and replacement is a simple disassembly-and-reassembly task. Just remember to turn off the water supply before starting. This small DIY fix prevents water waste and reduces the risk of further kitchen & bathroom plumbing wear.
5. Clearing a Jammed Garbage Disposal
When a disposal jams, it often shuts itself off as a safety measure. Turning off the power, manually freeing the obstruction using the included hex wrench, and pressing the reset button will resolve most issues. Just ensure the power is off throughout the process—safety always comes first.
3 Plumbing Problems You Should Never DIY
1. Burst Pipes or Major Leaks
A minor drip is one thing; a burst pipe is an emergency that demands a professional plumber. High pressure, aging materials, and improper repair attempts can escalate the damage instantly. A licensed plumbing repair service can identify the failure point, stop the leak safely, and ensure the rest of your system is protected.
2. Sewer Line Backups
If wastewater backs up into your sinks, tubs, or toilets, the issue is far beyond clogged drains. Sewer problems require specialized diagnostic tools, including cameras and jetting equipment. Attempting to fix a sewer backup on your own can expose you to health risks and worsen the blockage. This is a situation where you must call Mr. Rooter Plumbing immediately.
3. Water Heater Repairs
Water heaters involve electricity, gas, high water temperatures, and complex safety mechanisms. DIY repairs can create fire hazards, carbon monoxide risks, or system failures. Whether you have a tank or tankless model, water heater service should always be handled by a trained plumber in Ocean Township with the proper certifications.
Know When to DIY—and When to Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing
DIY fixes can save time and money, but recognizing your limits is essential. For advanced kitchen & bathroom plumbing issues, recurring leaks, sewer concerns, or anything involving gas or electrical components, trust an experienced plumbing repair service. Mr. Rooter Plumbing delivers reliable, professional solutions that protect your home and restore your peace of mind.
