Stop the Drip — When a DIY Fix Is Okay (and When to Call a Plumber in Sonoma)

There’s a special kind of anxiety that comes with a drip you can’t ignore. It’s the slow, steady sound at night. The faint stain growing on the ceiling. The mystery spike in your water bill. You can try to fix a small problem yourself — and sometimes that’s the right move — but other times a quick DIY makes the damage worse. If you live in Sonoma we’ll help you decide the smart, safe thing to do — and we’ll show up fast when you need a licensed pro.

Why a Small Leak Isn’t Always “Small”

• Water adds up. A single slow drip can waste hundreds of gallons a year and quietly raise your bill.
• Hidden damage is expensive. Leaks inside walls, under floors, or beneath slabs can cause mold, rot, and structural problems long before you see them.
• DIY can hide the problem. A temporary plug or chemical drain cleaner may stop symptoms but not the cause — leaving you with a bigger bill later.

We’ve repaired leaks that started as “minor” and turned into major jobs because the real problem was hidden. Our goal: stop the immediate risk, find the cause, and fix it right so you don’t worry about it again.

DIY Repairs Most Homeowners Can Handle (Safely)

You don’t need to call a plumber for every drip. These fixes are common, low-risk, and often solved with a trip to the hardware store:

• Leaky faucet or showerhead: Often a worn washer, bad O-ring, or clogged aerator. Turn off the water, replace the small part, and test.
• Running toilet: Replace the flapper or fill valve — inexpensive parts and quick work.
• Minor sink clogs: Plunger, hand snake, or a baking soda + hot water flush usually clears it.
• Loose fittings under a sink: Tighten connections and check the supply valves.

Simple rules if you DIY: shut off the water before you start, use the right part for your fixture, and test for at least 24 hours. If the leak returns or you’re unsure where the water is coming from, call a pro.

When to Call a Licensed Plumber — Don’t Wait

Call Prushko Plumbing right away if you see any of these signs:

• Water stains, bulging paint, or warped flooring — these suggest a hidden leak inside walls or ceilings.
• Multiple fixtures are affected or your whole house has low pressure — this could mean a main line or shared-pipe issue.
• Musty smells or visible mold — mold often points to a long-running leak and a health concern.
• Water pooling or active dripping from ceilings — immediate action can prevent collapse, electrical hazards, and major water damage.
• Burst pipe or major leak — shut off your main water and call us now.
• Recurring clogs and backups, or sewer smells — these often mean a deeper sewer or drain problem that DIY won’t fix.

Hidden leaks, slab leaks, and sewer issues require diagnostic tools and experience. We use non-destructive leak detection — acoustic detectors, moisture meters, and camera inspections — to find the source and fix it without tearing up more of your home than necessary.

What to Expect When You Call Prushko Plumbing

We treat your home like it’s our own. Here’s how we work in Sonoma and surrounding neighborhoods:

• Fast response, 24/7 availability. Leaks don’t keep business hours — we don’t either.
• Licensed & insured technicians. Decades of experience handling older homes near Sonoma Plaza and newer builds out by the vineyards.
• Clear, honest estimates. We diagnose first, explain your options, and give a written price before work begins.
• Modern tools, careful repairs. Non-destructive detection, precision repairs, and clean work that minimizes disruption.
• Follow-up care. We’ll advise you on prevention and return for checks if needed.

If you live near Sonoma Plaza, in Boyes Hot Springs, El Verano, Temelec, or anywhere around Sonoma County, we know the local plumbing quirks and the best ways to protect older structures and modern homes alike.

The Real Benefits of Hiring a Pro

• Peace of mind — the job is done right the first time.
• Safety — professionals handle gas lines, sewer backups, and hidden water safely.
• Long-term savings — proper repairs prevent repeat calls and costly water damage.
• Correct tools & parts — we source quality parts that last, not temporary fixes.

Quick How-To: Emergency Steps Before Help Arrives

1. Shut off the nearest supply valve (under sinks or behind toilets).
2. If it’s a big leak, shut off the main water to your house.
3. Move valuables & electronics away from the water.
4. Contain the leak with buckets or towels to limit damage.
5. Call Prushko Plumbing for same-day emergency plumbing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Stop the Drip?

Don’t let a small leak turn into a big repair. Call Prushko Plumbing now for fast, professional service in Sonoma and nearby neighborhoods.