From clogged sinks to overflowing toilets, just about everyone has had plumbing problems in their homes at some point. Some of these issues seem like they would be easy to fix, but many require the work of a licensed plumber. Your home’s plumbing system is more complicated than you might think, and trying to fix certain problems might just make them worse. While we recommend calling a plumber if you have any doubts about your plumbing, here are five plumbing problems that you should never try to fix yourself.

1. A Clogged Sewer Line

A clogged sewer line is a serious problem that you should never tackle on your own. Not only would it be way too difficult for someone to handle without the proper training and equipment, you could do thousands of dollars worth of damage to something that will affect your entire property if you do something wrong.

2. Leaky or Burst Pipes

If you have a leaky pipe in your home, never assume that you can just tighten a joint or patch it with plumber’s tape. The pipe will need to be replaced. This is a more dangerous and difficult task than you might think, so leave it for a professional if you want it done correctly.

3. Water Heater Replacement

Water heaters can last for years, but they need to be replaced if they start to leak or make unusual sounds. Since you’re dealing with hot water and your gas lines, you should never attempt to replace a water heater on your own.

4. Gas Line Repairs

Speaking of gas lines, you should never attempt to repair them on your own. Leaky gas lines are incredibly dangerous and can cause an explosion in your home. If you suspect that you have a gas leak anywhere, evacuate your home and contact someone who can fix it as soon as possible.

5. Flooding and Standing Water

If you have flooding or standing water anywhere in your home, your problems are bigger than a clogged sink or toilet. Even if you’re able to fix the source of the flooding, you still need to deal with problems like water damage and mold. There’s also always the chance that you haven’t completely fixed the leak that caused the flooding in the first place, so contact a plumber to look over your home.

As a rule, you should never attempt to fix any plumbing problem bigger than a clogged sink. If you have any plumbing problems that you think are beyond you, contact Plumbing Doctor for repairs.