The plumbing system is one of the most widespread and important system in your house. Even a small issue can become a big problem if it goes unaddressed for a long period of time. Hence, it is important to ensure that the plumbing network is working efficiently all the time.

If a problem does occur, it will be a good idea to hire an expert instead of trying to troubleshoot a problem you don’t really understand. Surely, there are some simple plumbing issues that can be managed without professional help. However, unless you understand the problem well and have plumbing experience, it is advisable that you hire a professional plumber.

# First Rule: Don’t Panic

The first rule of plumbing is the same one that you are advised to do while dealing with any other problem: don’t panic. Understandably, water rising in your bathtub or sink instead of draining on a damp floors and walls might look scary. After all, it can potentially damage everything you own. However, panicking will just make the situation worse. This is what you should do instead:

• Assess what the problem is and try to find out the source of the problem
• Once you know what the issue is, decide whether you can handle it yourself or professional help is needed
• After putting in a request with the plumbing repair service, make sure that no damage comes to your property until they arrive
• Try to clear out the work area as much as you can to make it easier for the plumber to solve the problem as soon as he comes

# Be Careful of Electricity

To put it bluntly, you can get electrocuted if you are not careful around water and electricity. This is why, it is extremely important to exercise caution when working on plumbing near a power switch. The very first thing that you must do is to turn off the power. Make sure that you have the required protective gear on. Read more about this further.

# Wrong Tools Can be Dangerous

Plumbing tools can be easily found in hardware stores. However, someone without any basic plumbing knowledge will be unable to pick out the right tools needed for specific plumbing jobs. If you have never worked with these tools before, it is recommended that you get professional help. Using the wrong tools and in the wrong way can prove to be very dangerous, leading to property damage and personal injuries.

# Protective Gear

You will never see a professional plumber working without having his protective gear on. No matter how small a plumbing job you are doing, you can never be too careful. At the very least, make sure that you have the right footwear and gloves on. Rubber gloves and footwear will provide protection from the tools as well as from electricity. Having protective gear on might slow you down a little but you will feel safer with them on.

# What Not to Do? 

Now that you are aware of some of the basic plumbing safety methods, there are some things that must be avoided under all circumstances. If the problem seems to be something bigger than a clogged drain or sink, it is advisable that you don’t try to manage it alone. The wise thing to do is to wait for a professional plumber.

However, if you have decided to tackle the issue on your own before seeking help from a professional service, make sure that you avoid doing a few things. Never carry the tools in your pocket, no matter how small they are. This can result in grave injury. It is also not a good idea to work while impaired or under the influence of alcohol or other similar substances.