Avoid DIY Mistakes BY Using A Licensed Sydney Plumber

Each homeowner hopes to save money wherever possible, with many attempting to DIY as much household maintenance as possible in their efforts. Unfortunately, there are risks with specific repairs like plumbing projects that can endanger safety and health, create liability for fines under Australia's guidelines, and compromise the integrity of the water system.

While Sydney residents have permission for little DIY, licensed tradespeople like the professionals at Hero Plumbing need to repair anything significant relating to the water supply as outlined by Australian laws. These regulations intend to keep residents safe and ensure all work is correct and up to modern codes. 

It's the homeowner's responsibility to know what projects are permissible and not for legal DIY. Each state and territory needs to comply with Australia's Plumbing Code which dictates the mandates for installation, repair, replacement, alterations, plus the design/construction of the plumbing system and drainage. 

These mean to ensure performance in trade work is of a safe, legal capacity. There are minute variations between the different states and territories on what an unlicensed person can carry out on their own; most are pretty similar in the minimal nature and the capacity for repercussions when going over the restrictions.

DIY Plumbing Mistakes To Avoid

Even when you stick within the law guidelines and perform legal DIY plumbing projects around your Sydney home, there is still the chance to make mistakes, particularly if you have minimal knowledge. 

If you lack appropriate skills and experience, you could potentially end up paying more costs and creating extensive damage than if you would call for assistance from a licensed professional to start. Check here to know more about the secrets of the plumbing trade.

Simply because the law allows you to do a task, and there is a chance to save money, doesn't mean you have to do the project if you aren't qualified. It's better to have it done right the first time. Some common mistakes homeowners make include:

** Excessive Amounts Of Chemically-Laden Drain Cleaner

Many inexperienced individuals who develop a blocked drain immediately go for a chemically-laden drain cleaner to release the blockage from the shower or basin. You can find these in either a crystal or liquid consistency, but generally, they have an active formula including sodium hydroxide, aluminum chips, chloride, and nitrate. 

Combining these with water induces an intense reaction meant to dissolve organic particles like grease, hair, food-bound together to create the block. Modern options in these cleansers from trusted brands boast safe with any pipe, even PVC. Still, not everyone follows manufacturer guidelines like avoiding putting hot water into the mix or using these with aged, weak piping with the potential for damage.

Generally, people misusing the products don't receive ideal results. If this is you, you'll likely see continued blockages, or it doesn't work initially, meaning you should call in a professional tradesperson for assistance. 

** The Water Is Still On 

As a rule, when working on the plumbing system, you want to turn the water off before you ever begin. Not everyone remembers to do so or only does in the section being worked on, like perhaps behind the toilet believing the whole house supply is off.

The main water supply outside the home near the water meter needs to shut off by turning the nut (depending on the house's age) clockwise. Then you can work freely without fear of being hit by a wall of water.

** Specific Tools For The Tradesperson 

Most homeowners are unaware of the tools necessary to handle the plumbing system adequately. Simple tools can handle minor tasks, but there are specialist tools that you can purchase as a layperson for the more complex duties that only experience (and legality) would allow you to use them. 

That means if there is a requirement for a specific tool to accomplish a particular project, you'll need to call a licensed plumber to do the job. You can't legally perform the duty. The tradesperson has the skills and qualifications to operate the tool, understands when necessary, and can do so correctly to do the job adequately.

Part of this is why Australia is so stringent with its laws regarding home improvement for anyone wanting to participate in DIY. It's beneficial when projects finish correctly for the safety and well-being of those in the home and to ensure no harm for those in the surrounding area. 

Just because you can buy the proper tools doesn't mean you should be using them. There's a reason tradespeople have licenses and certifications, and this is why the country prefers they do the major plumbing work for residents. Get toolbox plumbing tips at https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/house-and-homes-blog/2011/nog/23/toolbox-tips-basic-plumbing/.

Final Thought

It's okay to try to save money where you can by performing as much work around your Sydney home as you can. Homeowners need to participate in household maintenance and upkeep, mainly to retain the value of their home and the premiums on their insurance policies. 

There comes the point where DIY is not the answer in saving money but instead can lead to extensive expense because you either make mistakes or create more damage from shoddy work. 

While Australia allows homeowners to do their plumbing repairs to a certain extent, it's essential to know the level of skills and qualifications you have in that capacity before you embark on a project. Something that could start as exceptionally minor could turn into a devastating catastrophe if you have limited ability. 

Sometimes it makes more sense to call a licensed, certified professional plumber to come to check out the issue you're having. You can get a quote on the cost and compare it to what you believe you can do as an amateur. Ensure you fully understand that the expert will be completing the project correctly and safely where you might not be so sure. That's precisely why Australia made the laws.