Here’s Why You Shouldn’t DIY Your Toilet Repair

Nov 1

Most homeowners don’t schedule a plumber’s visit to resolve a small clog or an incorrect fitting on their water heater. There are plenty of minor plumbing fixes that do not warrant the help of a professional plumber. There are also times where it makes little to no sense to take on a plumbing adventure on your own. Installing a new toilet or repairing the current one is one example of when you should avoid a do-it-yourself project. Many DIY-loving homeowners are unaware of the intricacies of their porcelain thrones and end up in over their heads during the process. Here are some reasons to call a professional plumber for toilet repair and installation:

Toilets and their connections are complex

Since we can remember, toilets have been a part of our everyday life. Yet, although it seems simple, there are hundreds of moving parts accompanying every flush. When adding a new toilet, the installer needs to understand all the working parts of the old system and how it connects to the new one. Some of the essential items to replace a toilet include:

Closet bolts and bolt covers
Flange extension ring
Tank lever
Toilet flapper
Wax bowl ring

For anyone who does not have the experience or proper equipment, it’s best to leave the toilet remodeling to a licensed plumbing company.

Increased risk of errors

Some common mistakes with DIY toilet repair include forgetting to turn off the water valve before removing the toilet and improper placement of the toilet flange. To avoid a wet bathroom floor or broken piece of equipment, an experienced plumber brings the know-how of what to do and not to do with your toilet. While it doesn’t mean plumbers haven’t had their fair share of mishaps, you should not expect them on your dime.

Small leaks lead to more significant problems

Sneaky leaks can occur with even the slightest wrong move. Often a small leak turns into more significant issues, like pooling water or pest problems, before a homeowner notices the carnage it has had on the foundation of their home. Misaligned valves or pipes, loose bolts, and an improperly sealed wax bowl ring can lead to initially undetected leaks. If there is a floor below the area where you replaced the fixture, expect pooling water in the ceiling of that area or discolored stains to appear. Unfortunately, these effects may go unnoticed until mold or rot occurs, causing expensive-to-repair damage to a home.

Contact an expert plumbing service to perform your toilet repairs

Fortunately, finding a trustworthy plumber to help in a time of need is more accessible now, with reviews and references for every company online. Always look for a plumber that lists their license online or visit the Arizona Registrar of Contractors to reference check who you’re inviting to your home. A professional plumber will perform expert repairs and maintenance. All in all, adding a new toilet or repairing the current one should not come with so much risk and headache.

With over 25 years of experience, American Discount Plumbing has offered expert plumbing service and repair in Phoenix, Arizona, and surrounding cities at affordable rates for both residential and commercial properties. We are a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company offering 24-hour emergency service. We provide lasting general plumbing, water leak detection and repair, toilet repair, pipe repair, and water heater repair or replacement solutions. Call 602-883-2787 today!