DIY Plumbing With Training Wheels

Show of hands: who has ever had a bucket under their sink because something was leaking? I swear that every house we’ve ever rented or owned has had a leak under the sink at one point. In 2016, when we put the new kitchen in BHH, I had high hopes that our bucket days were behind us. Unfortunately, the leak monster came knocking. However, this time instead of calling a pro or moving, I turned to DIY plumbing with the Plunjr app.

This post is sponsored by Plunjr. All opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the companies that believe in my work and Blake Hill House.

Problem? What problem?

I normally avoid plumbing. Maybe it is because everything that has happened here regarding plumbing has been so dramatic. I’ve been on the receiving end of a classic “spray in the face” moment while attempting to stop a leak. Our upstairs toilet ruined the kitchen ceiling…twice, and we’ll never forget the horror of the sewer back-up in the basement–also twice. For this reason, Andy and I play a classic game of avoidance when new plumbing issues appear.

Andy’s M.O. is to “forget” that the problem exists.

Me: Will you fix that leak?

Andy: What leak?

Me: Under the sink.

Andy: When did that start?

Me: A few days ago

Andy: I’ll do it this weekend.

Me: Thanks

Two weeks later:

Me: Will you fix that leak?

Andy: What leak?

Me: Under the sink.

Andy: When did that start?

Me: About two weeks ago

Andy: I’ll do it this weekend.

Me: Thanks

Six months later:

Me: Will you fix that leak?

Andy: What leak?

Me: Under the sink.

Andy: When did that start?

Me: About six months ago

Andy: Why didn’t you tell me sooner? I’ll do it this weekend.

Me: Thanks

During that six months, I think, I should just do it myself.

I prepare myself for the task by considering the tools I might need. I picture the repair process and my success, all while seething as I empty the bucket twice a day.

There is no reason for any of this. We just continue to reinforce the healthy communication patterns we’ve established over the years.

DIY Plumbing with the Plunjr App

So, six months ago, the garbage disposer did start leaking, and the faucet became uncooperative shortly after. Working directly with Plunjr, I replaced both–no passive-aggressive communication required.

How does it work?

Working with Plunjr is very simple.

• Download the app and open it. (Available for Apple or Android)
• Press the Talk to a plumber now button
• Get connected to a plumber immediately

Through the app, I talked directly to Aaron. I described my problem, and we came up with a plan.

After I collected all of the tools and supplies, I called Aaron back, and he talked me through the work. Aaron’s explanations were easy to understand, but he also drew pictures to clarify when necessary. That’s why I refer to using the Plunjr app as DIY plumbing with training wheels. I did the labor, but I had full access to a pro whenever I got stuck.

Note: My concentration face and WTH face are the same. For reference, I was concentrating.

Most of the time, the call looked like this:

Aaron was so personable and helpful. He offered several pro tips that I could not get from reading the manual.

In about 90 minutes, I installed a new faucet and garbage disposal having never done either before.

They are shiny, and they do not leak. I feel bulletproof.

Should you attempt DIY plumbing with the Plunjr App?

Most of you know that I will try to DIY anything. I am pretty fearless when it comes to projects around the house. Knowing that, it might seem like Plunjr would work best for someone like me. The truth is, Plunjr is for anyone who wants to solve a plumbing problem. The service is so easy to use. If you are willing to try, the plumbers at Plunjr can talk you through it.

For a fraction of the cost of hiring a pro, a plumber at Plunjr will help you solve your problem and teach you valuable skills at the same time. After working with Plunjr, you’ll be able to take off those training wheels and ride that big-kid two-wheeler all by yourself.

To review: Download the app and open it. Push the call button. Solve your plumbing problem.

I will be using Plunjr again without any hesitation. Andy is sold on the idea too.

Naturally, I made a video about the experience because that’s what I do. It’s available on IGTV. You do not have to have Instagram to watch it. I found the whole process of using the Plunjr app fascinating, and the video offers some behind-the-scenes fun.

If you have any questions, please ask them below.