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Do you splash out for a plumber every time your sink clogs
or your loo blocks? If so, it’s worth learning a little DIY. Many issues can be
resolved without professional help, but be sure to follow these five handy tips
– so you don’t make the problem worse!
Use quality parts
First and foremost, it’s essential to use high-quality parts
– so visit a reputable home store and buy everything you need. Rubber washers
tend to last longer than ceramic alternatives (as they’re strong with a decent
grip) and opt for brass screws (as they won’t corrode easily). If you’re unsure
what to purchase, ask a salesman for help and advice and look for discounts on
useful materials.
Gather the right tools
Before you start any job, ensure you’ve got all the right
tools. Having everything nearby will make your life a lot easier and will stop
you panicking half way through a task. Keep in mind that you might need more
equipment than you first think, so do your research prior to carrying out any
task. If you’re really not sure what you’re doing, arrange
appliance repairs with a reputable company – just in case.
Check handbooks and instruction guides
If you’ve got a manufacturer’s handbook or an instruction
booklet nearby, check the maintenance advice on offer. There might be some
useful tips you can take on board before you start unscrewing nuts and bolts
and taking apart joints. Repairs aren’t always easy, so learn all you can
before you commit to the task and avoid these five common
plumbing mistakes highlighted by experts.
Know the basics
When it comes to plumbing, knowing the basics will really
help. For instance, always leave enough time to carry out a job and turn off
the water valve before starting – or you could end up flooding your house.
What’s more, never attach copper to steel (as copper tends to erode quicker)
and don’t leave threaded joints unsealed, unless you want water to fly
everywhere!
Take out plumbing insurance
It’s essential to take out pluming insurance with a
well-respected service provider – just to be on the safe side. This will
protect you in an emergency and should cover the cost of maintenance and
repairs if something goes wrong. Opt for the best policy out there and you
could save yourself a lot of money in the long run – which is important during
these economically unstable times.
Plumbing can be fun, but you must know what you’re doing.
Written by Alex Smith from DIY Newbie
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