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5 Plumbing Fixes You Can Totally Do Yourself (And 3 You Definitely Shouldn't)
5 Plumbing Fixes You Can Totally Do Yourself (And 3 You Definitely Shouldn't)
4.8 RATING

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

October 15, 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.

Our Customers Reviews

Chahib Chakrome

Summit, NJ

The service provided was great, nothing to say about the work of the plumber. 5 stars to him. But the company charges felt way too much for the work. We would have liked to have the same plumber take care of other things in the house, but every time he check how much extra the company will charge for the job, the price just got too much. The plumber did an amazing job he selected a beautiful faucet to replace our old one. He did his best. But the company prices have no room for negotiation.

Tiffany DeSande

Plainfield, NJ

A million stars!!!! Steve and Lucas were absolutely amazing. My parents pipes burst and within 4 hours of calling they came and fixed everything!!! Very nice guys and dealt with my panicking. I will always use them if needed in the future and you all should too!!! Thank god for people like this!!! Thank you so much guys!!!

Naomi Langer-Seltzer

New Brunswick, NJ

We got very quick service, I think the plumber actually arrived in less than an hour! After reviewing what was happening, he gave us our options and performed the option we selected. This happened in the late afternoon or early evening. It was already dark and there was a lot of snow on the ground.

Steve Smith

Mountainside, NJ

I needed immediate, same day service in the early evening at my home. I went to the internet and looked up plumbing services that offered "24-hour, 7-day a week" availability. The first 3 places I called said that they could not get to me until the following day. Then I called Mr. Rooter. They were courteous and promptly got a technician to my house within an hour and a half. The technician, Lucas Kaufmann, was exceptional. The job was not easy, but he figured the problem out and got me all fixed up within an hour's time. Moving forward, I…

Stephanie Brown

Cranford, NJ

Despite what was quite obviously a busy day (day after Thanksgiving at 10pm) TJ came out and did not leave until the job was done! There were several setbacks, which at the late hour might have prompted him to leave- but he chose to stay and continue until the job was complete! I only have one bathroom so I was really hoping he could make it work, and he really did a wonderful job! So thankful for all of his help! I highly recommend TJ!

Shaheen Dhanani

Union, NJ

This is my second time using Mr. Rooter and I have to say they are an excellent company of experienced professionals! The service techs were courteous, experienced and actually spent time trying to figure out the issue before proposing the solution. They were also patient and answered all my questions without rushing the work. I will be using them again.

Christie Murphy

Montgomery, NJ

TJ was amazing! 10/10 recommend this company. We were in an emergency state of panic with a burst pipe in the middle of a bad snowstorm. TJ came with knowledge, professionalism, kindness, and found the root of the problem within five minutes of being here. We will be using him again in the spring to fix an outdoor issue he found!

Alan Abraham

Clark, NJ

The technicians were friendly, professional and knowledgeable. The price was too high I believe, but the technicians had no control over that. The technicians took their time and did a great job. I would use them again and also recommend them.

Amy Swart

Berkeley Heights, NJ

Excellent service! Charles and Nicholas of Mr. Rooter arrived to my scheduled service a few minutes early, wore sanitary shoe coverings, and were extremely professional. They found the source of my leak quickly and fixed the issue. While they here, I requested an additional hydraulic heating inspection which they accommodated. They were very knowledgeable and provided helpful tips. I highly recommend this team and I will definitely call them for all future plumbing needs!!

JACKY Coppola

Wall Township, NJ

TJ came to my aid as the water pipe froze in my house. Although nothing could be done he gave me hints of what could be done my me which was very helpful. I found TJ very professional and caring about my situation. The best part of the very long night was the dogs adored him one wanted to accompany him to his next job. Thank you for employing such an amazing man. Plus today there is water running in the house. Thank you TJ and thank you Mr. Rooney plumbing for employing a man with helpful hints!!!!!

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 wo-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 wo-out O-ring or cartridge. These components are accessible and affordable, and replacement is a simple disassembly-and-reassembly task. Just remember to tu 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. Tuing 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 conces, 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.

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