When to DIY and When to Call a Plumbing Pro: End-of-Summer Edition
Late summer and early fall in Minnesota is a busy time for homeowners, between hosting those last backyard barbecues, watering gardens, and running the sprinkler for the kids, your plumbing system works overtime. As the summer season winds down and we head into fall, it’s smart to give your pipes, fixtures, and drains a little attention. But how do you know when it’s a quick DIY fix and when it’s time to call a professional plumber? Abel Plumbing is here to guide you.
DIY Plumbing Tasks You Can Handle
Some plumbing maintenance is simple enough for homeowners to take care of on their own. These quick fixes and checkups can help keep your system running smoothly:
Check for leaks: Look under sinks and around outdoor spigots for drips. Small leaks can often be tightened with a wrench or sealed with plumber’s tape.
Clean your drains: Use a safe, non-chemical method (like a baking soda and vinegar flush) to keep drains clear.
Test your sump pump: Heavy late-summer rains are common in Minnesota. Pour a bucket of water into your sump pump pit to make sure it kicks on properly.
Inspect outdoor plumbing: Disconnect hoses before temperatures drop, and check outdoor faucets for any damage from summer use.
These small tasks don’t require specialized tools and can prevent bigger problems down the road.
When to Call the Pros
Some plumbing problems are best left to licensed experts. Here’s when you should call Abel Plumbing instead of tackling it yourself:
Low water pressure throughout the house: This could mean hidden leaks, pipe blockages, or issues with your water main.
Persistent drain clogs: If plungers and safe cleaners don’t do the trick, there may be a deeper issue in your sewer line.
Water heater troubles: Strange noises, leaks, or inconsistent hot water are signs it’s time for professional service.
Basement flooding or sump pump failure: When heavy rains overwhelm your system, quick expert help is essential.
Bathroom or kitchen remodels: End of summer is a great time to start indoor projects. From installing new fixtures to full remodels, a licensed plumber ensures everything is up to code and done right.
Why End of Summer Is the Perfect Time
Late summer is an ideal time to address plumbing needs before Minnesota’s colder months arrive. Frozen pipes, burst outdoor spigots, and winter water heater failures are common issues, but with some preventive maintenance now, you can avoid headaches later.
Abel Plumbing offers professional plumbing repairs, remodels, and installations to keep your home safe and comfortable year-round. Whether you’re tackling small DIY jobs or need expert help for bigger issues, our team is just a call away. Ready to schedule your end-of-summer plumbing checkup? Contact Abel Plumbing today to keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly into fall and beyond.