Not every plumbing issue in an Ontario bathroom requires a licensed plumber. Here are the fixes that fall firmly within capable DIY territory — and the ones that don’t.
DIY-Safe: Running Toilet
A toilet that runs continuously is almost always one of three issues:
1. Flapper failure: The flapper (rubber seal at bottom of tank) is worn or has mineral deposit buildup. Cost: $8–$15. Process: Turn off supply valve, flush to empty tank, remove old flapper (pull up and unhook from overflow pipe pegs), install new flapper. Takes 10 minutes.
2. Float adjustment: The float level is set too high, allowing water to flow into the overflow tube continuously. Adjust the float arm down (older ball-float) or pinch the float cup clip down (modern tower fill valve).
3. Fill valve failure: The fill valve doesn’t shut off properly. Replace the entire fill valve assembly ($15–$30 at any hardware store). YouTube tutorials make this straightforward for anyone comfortable with basic DIY.
DIY-Safe: Slow Drain
Sink and tub slow drains are almost always hair and soap scum accumulation.
Tools: Drain snake (hand-operated, $15–$25) or Zip-It drain cleaning tool ($5). Process: remove the pop-up stopper (usually unscrews or pulls out), insert tool, rotate to grab accumulation, pull out.
Chemical option: Enzyme drain cleaners (BioClean, Green Gobbler) are safer for pipes than caustic sodium hydroxide (Drano) and effective for organic accumulation. Not effective for mineral scale.
DIY-Safe: Dripping Faucet (Cartridge Type)
Modern single-handle faucets use replaceable cartridges. Replacing a cartridge costs $15–$40 and takes 20–30 minutes.
Process: Turn off supply valves, remove handle (usually a set screw under a decorative cap), pull the cartridge out (may require cartridge puller tool), replace with matching cartridge.
NOT DIY: When to Call a Licensed Plumber
In Ontario, any work involving: cutting drain or supply lines, adding new fixtures, moving the location of any fixture, any work affecting the stack or main drain — this is licensed plumber territory. Permits are required and ESA inspection standards apply.
DIY plumbing questions and contractor referrals at home.renovation.reviews.
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