DIY plumbing: Dos and don'ts

Plumbing, unlike most electrical work, has a large component that can safely be tackled by the home handy person. However, as with any other home maintenance work, there are definitely tasks that are best left to professionals, for the safety and comfort of those who dwell in the home.

Plumbing guide: Dos

There are a few considerations to bear in mind before hopping into plumbing jobs around your house:

• Do always check with your local council before undertaking any larger plumbing projects. Some will require planning permission, and some may legally have to be done by a licensed plumber
• Always use the appropriate materials for the job. Skimping on proper piping, joiners or other fittings can result in more trouble than the initial problem you set out to fix
• Turn off the water to the house first!
• Tackling smaller jobs like fitting a new sink, taps, washers or other fittings should be well within the reach of any home owner with a little time and the right tools
• Do carefully plan the job in advance and make sure you have all the materials and tools you will need before you begin. Take an example of the plumbing you wish to add a new connection to with you to the shop in order to ensure that you get the right size and type

Careful planning and checking with your local hardware expert, as well as the local council, before you begin bigger projects should ensure success in your home plumbing ventures.

DIY plumbing: Don'ts

There are some things that you should never do yourself when re-plumbing your home:

• Never interfere with your home's sewerage system. It is illegal to do this, as well as potentially very unhealthy for you and the other occupants of the house
• Don't change the drainage system around your house without checking with the council and a professional plumber. Doing so may interfere with the local water management system
• Don't try to put ill fitting joints, pipes or fittings together
• Don't try to install a new hot water system. This is potentially dangerous as well as likely to result in an improperly working system
• Don't over stretch yourself. Plumbing is important business, and if you feel unsure about your ability to successfully complete a job, call a licensed plumber to advise you or to do the work

The best way to stay out of trouble with DIY plumbing is to check first if you are unsure, thus avoiding troublesome problems or even a fine.

DIY plumbing guide

While there are always jobs that are best left to the experts, following these simple dos and don'ts of DIY plumbing should help you steer clear of any major pitfalls. Tackle any smaller jobs like fitting new taps yourself, and check with the council and an expert before approaching bigger ones to ensure success in your DIY plumbing ventures.