Plumbing problems normally become self-evident pretty quickly: drains clog up, faucets drip, broken pipes spray, and so forth. Most minor plumbing problems are relatively easy to fix if you understand the basics of how the systems work. Considering the fact that plumbers now cost over $80 per hour in many areas, you can save significantly by making your own repairs when possible.
Of course, some repairs are easier to do than others are. Many just take time; some are a major hassle--particularly those that involve working on pipes that are hidden behind walls or under floors, or are otherwise difficult to access.
A plumber can handle nearly any problem that involves pipes, from replacing a garbage disposal to unclogging a bathtub drain, but if your problem is a stopped-up drain, you're usually better off calling a drain-clearing service because these are usually less expensive. See more about working with plumbers and other services HERE.
Plumbing basics
Your home's plumbing actually involves several systems that work separately and, in some cases, together. Water is delivered to your home under pressure through the water supply system--galvanized steel or copper pipes that carry it to faucets, plumbing fixtures, outdoor hose-bibbs, sprinklers and the like.
Drain and waste plumbing is not under pressure like the supply system--gravity is the only force that moves water and waste to the sewer or septic system. Vent piping is coupled with the drain and waste to exhaust sewer gasses (normally out the roof) and to allow pressure equalization so drains can drain.
Gas piping is totally separate from the water system, but utilizes pipes that look similar to water supply pipes. Gas pipes deliver natural gas from your utility to gas-fired appliances.
