Managing a broken boiler
There are repair jobs, that almost anyone can do themself, but broken boiler isn't one of them. Boiling hot water and immense pressure - those are the things that define boiler, and also the things you should be wary of.
Calling in professional plumber isn't any shame in this case, it is necessesity. It is different from a ticking bomb, but close enough, especially if the safety valves are at fault. All in all, you need expert on this - let him do his job, and relax. He is aware of the risks involved and already knows how to avoid any mistakes. All you need to do is coffee and maybe some snacks, while he do his job.
If you are not convinced by this, and ready to repair you boiler alone, all i have to add is this: search the internet for movies of exploding boilers, I dare you.
Water where it is not supposed to be - in general
The pipes, whole drainage system, is such an essential thing nowadays, that we rarely even think about it. Until it breaks of course. Than it is the only thing on our minds - mostly because water isn't the best thing for your furniture and flooring.
It is good to have trusted plumber in times like this, but what if he isn't available? There are some times when you need somebody ASAP, and one man business isn't going to come to your aid. Emergency plumbing services is the answer ? company with more than one plumber, on standby.
All in all, it all comes to trust either way ? You need reliable emergency plumbers. But they all usually have what it takes, to fix your water issues. Besides, it's not like you won't try anyway ? right?
Plumbers and their "toys" - reason we call them
When it comes to professional repairs done by specialists, you often wonder - "ha, I could do that myself, but now I need to pay anyway...". It is common enough way of thinking, but is it really true?
Experts in their fields make it look like it is easy, but only because they have years of experience. Because of it, they were able to deduce what the problem is quickly, and if it is easy to fix, they make it look like it's nothing. It may escape your attention, but they more often than not, use special tools when doing so.
Simple wrench and hammer are common household items, but what about thread seal tape? Or do you really want to buy whole package od putty, just to seal one small hole? These are the things that seperate experts in their fields from weekend handyman. Other than that, they are also the reasons why you call in a real plumber, once in a while.