Emergency Plumbing & What It Entails
The pitter-patter noise at night can disrupt your sleep. But it’s challenging to figure out whether the drip drop constitutes a plumbing emergency or requires a quick fix. Instinctively, you might be encouraged to grab your phone and contact a plumber.
However, emergency services charge more than those offered during business days, so you must be wise about ringing for help.
Let’s unveil what’s emergency plumbing - and what’s not.
Problems that Call for Emergency Plumbing Services
When it comes to plumbing problems, the sooner you seek help, the better. Unlike worn-out electric equipment, plumbing issues can have stress-inducing consequences.
You may notice a sagging ceiling or water spots on your freshly painted walls. To prevent that from happening, you must know what problems require an emergency plumbing service.
Burst Pipes
Freezing temperatures in the winter can cause the pipes to burst. However, emergencies can occur anytime. For instance, uncontrollably hot water can also lead to pipe bursts.
In case this happens, it’s an emergency because burst pipes release gallons of water into your home. Before you reach your phone, consider shutting off the main water supply. Also, remove furniture and other belongings to keep them from water damage.
Water Heater Failure
One of the most common problems homeowners encounter is water heater failure.
Many often complain that their water is too hot or too cold. That’s primarily because of a problem with your water heater. You may also notice excessive mineral deposits in the tank, bubbling water, or gurgling sounds.
This requires a professional to drain the water and thoroughly clean the water heater. In the worst-case scenario, your water heater can malfunction, failing to warm up the water. This requires extensive repairs by an expert.
Sump Pump Failure
If your region encounters occasional rain spells, your sump pump keeps your home from flooding. They help remove the water from the basement or crawl spaces around the building.
A dysfunctional sump pump will keep the water from moving out and risk extensive water damage. So, if you notice standing water in your basement or crawl spaces, it’s time to call in a professional.
Leaky Pipes
The
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests that around 10% of American households lose 90 gallons of water per day due to pipe leaks.
Fixing leaky pipes can help plummet energy bills and keep your property from water damage. If left unattended, it can reach electrical outlets and risks causing a short circuit.
Blocked Sewer Line
A clogged sewer line calls for professional help. Flushing paper towels and wipes can easily create blockages in the main sewer line. As a rule of thumb, you must avoid flushing such items down the toilet. Growing tree roots can be another culprit of cracked sewer lines that lead to blocks over time.
Overflowing Toilet
An overflowing toilet can be a nightmare. Not only does it cause water damage, but it also spreads an unpleasant odor around your property.
There’s no reason to delay seeking professional help in case that happens. In the meantime, consider shutting off the main water supply to prevent further damage.
Poor Water Pressure
Poor water pressure keeps you from using sufficient water, and this is not something you can compromise on, especially when showering after a hectic day. Various reasons can contribute to the problem, including:
- Dirt and debris accumulation in the pipes.
- A failing pressure release valve.
- A partially opened water meter valve.
However, before you contact a professional, we recommend checking the faucet aerators. Oftentimes, limescale buildup in aerators disrupts water flow.
You can always unscrew the aerator and clean it by dipping it in vinegar overnight. However, if that doesn’t work out, you may have an underlying problem that requires professional attention.
Sewage Backup
Sewage backups are a notorious problem for a reason. They bring back the contaminated wastewater meant to drain away from your home. Plus, a disruption might cause polluted water to mix with clean drinking water.
This requires immediate help as it can lead to waterborne diseases. Therefore, it would make sense to seek out an emergency plumber and let them handle the job.
Clogged Toilet
Maybe your kid flushed a toy down the toilet, or perhaps you use too much toilet paper. Whatever the case, flushing items other than waste down the toilet can create blockages.
Before you reach out to an emergency service provider, pour a baking soda and vinegar solution down the toilet and flush to see if it solves the issue. Alternatively, you can use a plunger to unclog the toilet.
If DIY tricks fail, you can hire an experienced plumber. They use professional-grade equipment to unclog the toilet. More severe blockages may require them to separate the toilet bowl from the base and look for blocks in the flange.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes technically may not sound like an emergency, but it certainly can be. Not thawing the ice in pipes risks water expansion and an eventual burst.
You can contact emergency service providers and ask for help. We use specialized heating equipment to melt the ice and restore water pressure in the pipes.
What’s Not an Emergency
Not all plumbing problems in your home call for emergency service. For instance, a dripping faucet or a minor leak can usually wait a day or two before being repaired.
In the meantime, turn off the water source using the under-sink shutoff valve if possible to avoid wasting water or causing any damage. While we aren’t recommending overlooking the problem, you can delay it to business days.
Put a Stop to Your Plumbing Problems
Clogged drains and leaky toilets can be a pain in the neck. It is crucial to know what calls for emergency help and what doesn’t.
No one likes to pay more when they can get the same job done at affordable rates during business hours. However, make sure to hire a reliable, licensed, and experienced plumber regardless of the services needed.