We live in the age of YouTube tutorials. With a quick search, you can watch someone fix just about anything in five minutes. As a Las Vegas homeowner, the temptation to save a service call fee and fix a plumbing issue yourself is strong. We get it—we like saving money, too.
At Clean Hits Pipe Cleaning, our philosophy is simple: We want you to be empowered homeowners. We don’t want you to pay us for things you could easily do yourself. However, we also don’t want you to turn a $50 part into a $5,000 flood damage claim.
Plumbing is high-stakes. So, where do you draw the line? Here is our honest guide to knowing when to be a DIY hero and when to call in the professionals.
The “Green Zone”: Go Ahead, You Got This!
These are low-risk jobs. Even if you mess them up, you probably won’t flood the house. Grab your toolbox and save some cash.
- A Simple Clogged Toilet: Before you panic, grab a flange plunger (the one with the rubber extension on the bottom). 90% of the time, a little elbow grease is all it takes.
- Cleaning Faucet Aerators: Is your sink spraying wildly? Unscrew the little mesh tip (the aerator) and soak it in vinegar to remove Las Vegas hard water buildup. It’s easy and incredibly satisfying.
- Replacing a Showerhead: Want to upgrade to a rainfall shower? Usually, this just involves unscrewing the old one, applying some white Teflon tape to the threads, and screwing on the new one. Hand-tight is usually enough!
- Tightening a Loose Handle: If your toilet handle jiggles or your faucet handle is loose, there is usually a small screw underneath that just needs tightening with a screwdriver or Allen wrench.
The “Red Zone”: Step Away from the Toolbox
These are high-risk situations. A mistake here involves dangerous elements (gas, sewage) or could cause catastrophic water damage behind walls or under floors.
- ANYTHING Involving Gas: Whether it’s a gas water heater, a stove connection, or a dryer line—do not touch it. Gas leaks are invisible, odorless (until the additive is added), and explosive. This is strictly for licensed professionals.
- Main Sewer Line Backups: If multiple drains are slow or your toilet gurgles when the shower runs, the clog is deep in the main line. Store-bought snakes aren’t long enough, and chemical cleaners can destroy your pipes. You need professional hydro-jetting or heavy-duty cabling.
- Leaks Inside Walls or Under Slabs: If you see a damp spot on drywall or feel a hot spot on the floor, do not start cutting holes. You need professional leak detection gear to pinpoint the issue without turning your home into a construction site.
- Water Heater Installation: These involve gas lines, 240-volt electricity, and carbon monoxide venting. Incorrect installation can be deadly.
The Rule of Thumb
A good rule for a Las Vegas homeowner is this: If the repair is outside the wall (a faucet, a showerhead, a toilet flapper), give DIY a shot. If the problem is inside the wall, under the floor, or involves gas, call a pro.
If you are staring at a pipe and feeling unsure, don’t guess. Call Clean Hits Pipe Cleaning at +1 702-808-3459. We are happy to give you honest advice on whether it’s a job for you or a job for us.