Whether it is a feeling of excess pride or of thrift, some people hate to have to call the plumber when they are confronted with a plumbing problem. The urge to try to DIY on problems with your pipes can usually turn out o.k., but here are three instances when it is absolutely better to call a plumber near you instead of trying to go it alone.
Your water bill is significantly higher than usual
You probably don't pay that much attention to your water bill, but this is one instance where it is important to pay attention. A much higher water bill can indicate an undiscovered leak that is draining your water line and your bank account. Most water service providers will compare current month usage to both the previous month as well as the same month in the previous year. Be sure to look at both for significant irregularities. If allowed to go unchecked, this loss of water can really add up in terms of money lost and damage done by excess water. You'll want to shut off the water going into the house and call a professional right away.
You're having problems with your hot water
Problems with water heat reliability can be a sign of a failing hot water heater. Getting it checked by a professional plumber can diagnose whether repairs can be made prior to replacement, (say, replacing a heating element) which would mean a substantial savings since a new hot water heater can cost between one and two thousand dollars. Making this a good thing to address as soon as you notice it.
Your toilet won't drain even after using a plunger
Every plumber has a story about "the strangest thing they ever found flushed down the toilet." Even if you don't have children flushing things that shouldn't go in the toilet, accidents can still happen and the wrong things can get flushed. Moreover, tree roots can grow into sewage pipes, causing a blockage that a plunger just can get out. If you've tried to plunge a backed up toilet and it won't budge, it's time to call in the professionals.
