If you own or rent a home, you know how annoying it can be to have plumbing issues. If you need plumbing repairs at home, you may have to call a 24 hour plumbing service to get everything fixed up and back to working order. If you have a plumbing emergency, make sure you call someone right away so the problem doesn’t get worse. Depending on the specific issue you’re facing, your local plumber can utilize a variety of techniques to perform plumbing repairs. Whether you’re facing issues with plumbing fixtures in the bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room, it’s a good idea to talk to a professional instead of fixing it yourself.

If you don’t know a lot about plumbing but would like to know more, or if you’re simply trying to learn about some common problems before your plumber visits to fix your drain or sink, keep reading to learn about some of the strangest ways people have tried to fix their plumbing problems. It’s not a good idea to fix it yourself, but the good news is, plumbers can get everything working again so you can enjoy the benefits of modern plumbing.

1. Stopping a leak with super glue
This might be a temporary fix, but it’s sure to break quickly and can even make the problem worse. If you have a leak that you can clearly identify, don’t think it’s a good idea to fix it yourself, because it could be indicative of a more serious problem. Super glue isn’t meant to block water leaks, and using it to stop one is sure to end in disaster.

2. Connecting the washing machine to a nearby sink
If you’re having drainage issues with your washing machine, call a professional ASAP to get the problem looked at. Connecting it to another plumbing fixture can result in more damage because both features might get broken in the process.

3. Placing a plastic bin beneath a leaking drain
Okay, this might work for a while and can be a good idea if you’re waiting for the plumber to come. But it’s not a permanent fix because plumbing wastewater contains lots of bacteria and germs that can make you sick. It’s not a good idea to let this water sit in your warm house, because you might get an infection from touching it.

4. Dumping solid food waste in the toilet
This is a surefire way to clog the toilet, because solids can get stuck in the drain and prevent normal water flow. If you have some old food that you don’t want to throw away inside, it’s best to take it outside right away instead of flushing it down the toilet.

Before you try any amateur plumbing techniques of your own, it’s a good idea to consult this list to make sure it’s not ill-advised to fix your own plumbing. If you’re in doubt about what to do, call your local plumber and schedule a visit. Leaving it to the pros is usually your best option.

Do you have any crazy stories of plumbing repairs that you want to share? Have you had any weird experiences that required you to seek emergency plumbing services? What’s the best way to find a qualified plumber who can get the job done quickly? If you have any thoughts on various plumbing issues, please leave a comment below and share your experience. Find more on this here.