Let’s face it, plumbing is complex. There is a network of pipes running to fixtures in our homes and we rely on these systems every day. Of course, it is possible to fix some minor plumbing issues, such as a leaking faucet with some basic DIY skills. But, if you’re not confident using tools or the problem is more complex, you need professional help. Some people try to save money by hiring a handyman or other unqualified person to do the work. This is a mistake and we will explain why choosing a professional plumber makes more sense in this article.
Relevant Training and Experience
A professional plumber needs to spend many years training alongside a master plumber before they can work on your plumbing system. This training is invaluable because an amatuer approach will not fix the problem and it’s even possible to cause more damage. Every professional plumber will have the experience to fix any plumbing problem from a leaky faucet to a clogged drain and more. This benefit of experience can help the plumber to identify a problem quickly which can speed up a repair significantly.
Certification is Important
Although it is true that a handyman may have some experience working in many trades, including plumbing, this is no replacement for certification and licensing. Every professional plumber will be able to demonstrate their knowledge with the certifications that prove that they can get the job done safely. Certification requirements can vary in different locations, but most states require the following:
- A high school diploma.
- Vocational (plumbing) training.
- Apprenticeship program completion.
- A final test on plumbing.
This shows a significant commitment to becoming a plumber that people can trust. When you’re considering hiring a plumber, you should always ask them if they are certified or licensed. If you choose a plumber that isn’t certified or licensed, there is no guarantee that you are paying for high-quality work.
Using Specialist Tools Safely
Although it is true that you can change a washer on that annoying leaky faucet with an adjustable wrench, there are times that more specialized tools are needed. After all, it’s unlikely that you or a handyman would have a fiber optic drain line camera to investigate a blockage in a drain pipe. You may have a plumbing augur (snake), but most of us don’t have access to a hydro-jet drain clearing system. These tools are specialised and they require professional training for effective and safe use. This is especially relevant when it comes to working on gas lines, which can be very dangerous for someone without proper training.
Saving Money with Professional Plumbing
Let’s face it, the only reason why anyone would consider hiring a handyman or a DIY approach is to save money. But, plumbing systems are complex and it’s easy to cause damage if you don’t have relevant plumbing training and experience. In many cases, the cheaper option leads to a repair bill that’s higher than the cost of the work if it had been tackled by a professional plumber.
If you want to learn more about hiring a local certified and licensed plumber, contact us today.
