Let’s face it—most people don’t think about their plumbing until something goes wrong. Suddenly, that tiny drip, slow drain, or strange gurgle becomes an emergency. But here’s the thing: not every plumbing problem requires a professional right away. In fact, there are a handful of easy, safe fixes you can handle yourself—no expensive tools or years of experience required.

Of course, there are times when calling a pro (like a trusted Mesa plumber) is the smartest and most cost-effective move. But for now, let’s look at the everyday plumbing issues you can often solve on your own.

Quick Wins You Can Handle Yourself

1. Replacing a Faucet Washer
That annoying drip-drip-drip from your kitchen or bathroom faucet might just be a worn-out washer. With a simple adjustable wrench and a replacement washer (usually under $1), you can often stop the leak in minutes.

2. Unclogging a Sink (Without Harsh Chemicals)
Skip the chemical drain cleaners—they can damage your pipes. Instead, try a plunger specifically designed for sinks, or the vinegar-and-baking-soda method. Pour in the baking soda, follow with vinegar, cover the drain for a few minutes, then flush with hot water.

3. Fixing a Running Toilet
If your toilet keeps running after you flush, it’s often a simple issue with the flapper or chain inside the tank. Adjust the chain length or replace the flapper, and you might just save gallons of water (and lower your bill).

4. Cleaning a Showerhead
Low water pressure in your shower? Mineral buildup might be the culprit. Unscrew the showerhead and soak it in vinegar for a couple of hours. This dissolves the deposits and restores flow.

5. Replacing a Sink Aerator
If water from your faucet is spraying unevenly, the aerator might be clogged. These small screens are easy to unscrew and replace, improving flow and reducing splashing.

Handy Tools to Keep Around

You don’t need a full workshop to tackle small plumbing repairs. Just keep these basics on hand:

• Plunger (one for sinks, one for toilets)
• Adjustable wrench
• Plumber’s tape (for sealing threaded connections)
• Bucket and rags (because water finds a way)
• Flashlight (dark cabinet corners aren’t your friend)

With these tools nearby, you can jump into action before small problems turn into big ones.

When to Put Down the Wrench and Call a Pro

While it’s empowering to handle a few repairs yourself, there are times when you should call a licensed plumber Mesa residents trust.

• Persistent Leaks – If the same faucet, pipe, or fixture keeps leaking after your fix, there may be a deeper issue.
• Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls – This often means a hidden leak that can cause major damage.
• Recurring Clogs – If your drain keeps backing up, there may be a blockage deeper in the system.
• Strange Smells or Discolored Water – This could indicate a serious problem like pipe corrosion or sewer issues.

Attempting to fix these on your own can make things worse—and cost you more in the long run.

Why a Pro Can Save You Money

You might think you’re saving money by skipping a call to a plumber, but bigger issues often hide behind small symptoms. A pro has the training and tools (like video inspections and hydro jetting) to diagnose the root cause, ensure repairs meet local codes, and prevent future problems.

Plus, a professional can often spot other issues while they’re working—helping you avoid another repair call in the near future.

The Bottom Line

Tackling small plumbing fixes yourself can be satisfying, save you money, and give you a sense of accomplishment. Just remember to keep safety in mind, use the right tools, and know your limits. For anything beyond a basic DIY, trust the experience of a plumber Mesa homeowners have counted on for years.

Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn clog, a mysterious leak, or just want peace of mind about your plumbing, Majesty Plumbing is here to help. We handle everything from quick repairs to major installations with the care and expertise your home deserves.

Call us today to schedule service and see why our customers keep us on speed dial.