Plumbing Emergencies 101: What They Are and When to Reach Out to for Help
Plumbing emergencies can be homeowners’ worst nightmare. Burst pipes, clogged drains leaky fixtures, gas leaks can cause severe destruction to your home and put the safety of your family at risk.
It’s crucial to take care of these emergencies quickly and efficiently to minimize the harm and keep your home safe. In this article, we’ll look at the most commonly encountered kinds of plumbing issues and what you should do in the event in the event of an emergency.
Common Types of Plumbing Emergencies
Pipes Burst Pipes
Causes of burst pipes
The majority of burst pipes are caused by freezing temperatures, aging pipes or high pressure in the water.
Signs of burst pipes
Signs of burst pipes include low pressure in the water, odd noises emanating from pipes water spots on walls or ceilings, as well as a decrease in the quality of water.
What to do in case of a pipe burst
If you suspect that there is a ruptured pipe, shut off the main water supply immediately and contact a professional plumber.
Clogged Drains
Causes of clogged drains
Clogged drains are usually caused by hair buildup or soap scum and other debris in pipes.
Signs of clogged drains
The signs of a blocked drain are slower draining of the water, noises emanating from pipes, and foul smells.
What to do in case of a clogged drain
Try using a plunger or a drain snake to unclog the drain. If none of these solutions work, contact an experienced plumber.
Leaking Fixtures
Causes of leaking fixtures
Leaking fixtures are usually caused by worn out or damaged parts.
Signs of leaking fixtures
The signs of leaking fixtures are drips, damp spots on walls or ceilings, and a sudden rise in the cost of water.
What should you do in the event of a leaky fixture
Try tightening loose connections or replacing damaged parts. If this doesn’t solve the problem, call an experienced plumber.
Gas Leaks
Gas leaks are caused by a variety of reasons.
Gas leaks are often caused due to damaged pipes or defective gas appliances.
Signs of gas leaks
Signs of gas leaks are whistling or hissing sound near devices that use gas, musty egg smell, and dizziness or headaches.
What to do in the event of an gas leak
If you suspect a gas leak, leave your home immediately and contact an experienced plumber.
When to Call for Professional Help
It is important to call an experienced plumber
Professional plumbers are equipped with the knowledge, experience, and equipment to tackle plumbing emergencies swiftly and effectively. Doing the repair of the plumbing issue yourself can risk your safety and your property at risk.
These are signs that you may require professional help
Signs that indicate you need professional help include a sudden rise in your water bills and a drop in the quality of your water, and the inability to solve the issue your self.
What to expect when you contact for assistance
When you reach out to a professional plumber, you can expect rapid response time and a thorough evaluation of the issue, and an upfront cost estimate.
Prevention Tips
Regular maintenance of plumbing
Regular maintenance of plumbing can reduce the risk of plumbing problems by identifying and fixing minor problems before they turn into bigger ones.
Simple steps to avoid common plumbing problems
Simple methods to avoid common plumbing problems include using drain screens, avoiding placing grease in drains, and avoiding flushing non-flushable items down the toilet.
When is the best time to schedule plumbing inspections
Schedule plumbing inspections annually or bi-annually in order to detect and correct potential problems before they turn into emergencies.
Conclusion
Emergencies with plumbing can prove difficult and expensive, but dealing with these issues quickly and efficiently will minimize the damage and ensure your family’s safety. Be sure to call an experienced plumber when you need help and make preventive steps to avoid plumbing issues that are common. With these suggestions, you can ensure that the system you have in place runs smoothly, and you can avoid stress and expense in the event of an emergency. If you’re facing an emergency with your plumbing, don’t hesitate to call South Auckland Plumbers at 0800 001 969. Our team of highly trained and skilled plumbers is available 24/7 to assist you in any emergency you may be confronted with.
Commonly asked questions (FAQs)
What should I do in case of an emergency plumbing situation?
If you experience a plumbing emergency, turn off the main water supply immediately , and contact an experienced plumber.
Can I fix a plumbing emergency by myself?
It’s not recommended to try and fix a plumbing emergency yourself. This can put your safety and property at risk. It’s recommended to call a professional plumber to assist you.
How do I know when I should call for help from a professional?
Signs that suggest you need professional assistance include an abrupt increase in water bills and a drop in the quality of your water, and the inability to solve the issue your self.
How can I prevent plumbing emergencies from happening?
You can prevent plumbing emergencies from happening by scheduling regular maintenance of your plumbing and taking the necessary steps to avoid typical plumbing problems, as well as scheduling inspections of your plumbing every year or bi-annually.
What do I be looking for in an experienced plumber?
Find a professional plumber who is licensed, insured skilled, knowledgeable, and has good reviews.
How much does it cost to employ a professional plumber?
Cost of employing a professional plumber can vary depending on the nature of the emergency and the extent of the damage. Call South Auckland Plumbers for an upfront cost estimate.