Unfortunately, a plumbing problem can strike unannounced. While some issues can wait a day or two, other issues must be addressed immediately. Why?
Because overlooking them means exacerbating the problem and paying additional costs for expensive repairs. This guide digs into common plumbing emergencies and issues that do not count as an emergency - to keep you from ringing the emergency plumber when it's not necessary.
Between overflowing toilets and no hot water, you may struggle to identify what emergency plumbing is. After all, all plumbing problems are inconvenient and hinder our routine activities. Below, we’ll address some common plumbing emergencies that require immediate action on your part.
Leaks
The consistent pitter-patter from a faucet can disrupt your good night’s sleep. However, it is worth noting that all leaks are not an emergency. Nonetheless, those that show signs of extensive damage need your attention. Water leaks can affect your home’s foundation. Because a few are silent, you may not notice them until you observe visible damage signs on your property. Consistent leaks can weaken your home’s flooring, especially those made of wood.
What’s worse, leaks can lead to mold and mildew growth. Further, leaking water poses a fire hazard as it may reach electrical wiring. So, it makes sense why you must call a professional upon spotting leaks.
Burst Pipes
Burst pipes are bad news. If left unattended, they can flood your entire property, damaging your property’s structure and possessions. A single burst can release gallons of water inside your home.
The first step is to turn off the main water supply to keep your flooring, walls, and furniture from water. Then, move your furniture and other belongings to a safe area. Finally, call an emergency plumber and get the issue sorted.
Deteriorating Ceiling
Unfortunately, leaky pipes inside the walls can cause extensive damage to your ceiling. You may notice a visible sag in your ceiling which can lead to a total collapse. Waiting will only worsen things and lead to expensive repairs. Therefore, turn off the main water supply and seek emergency help.
Water Stains
Water stains on the ceiling and walls signify an underlying issue - a leak. In fact, stains appear when the leak has been there for some time. This means water has already soaked your ceiling and walls. To keep yourself from further damage, call a 24/7 emergency plumbing service.
Clogged Sinks
Nobody wants to turn on the faucet only to discover that it does not drain. It could keep us from washing our hands and doing the dishes. Slow-draining water generally indicates there’s a clog inside the sink.
Grease from the dishes or soap could accumulate inside the pipes. This explains why experts recommend pouring boiling water down the sinks and drains frequently. A clogged sink can certainly be annoying, but it is usually not an emergency. However, it is important to get it fixed as soon as possible to prevent a drain backup.
Lack of Hot Water
Getting blasted with ice-cold water during the winter can be an unpleasant experience. In fact, it risks your well-being. Accessing hot water is a necessity. Therefore, it’s an emergency and requires an immediate fix.
Typically, a lack of hot water is due to a problem with the water heater. Maybe the heater's element is broken, or the temperature or pressure relief valve has gone bad. Whatever the case, a plumber can identify and fix the problem immediately.
Sewer Backup
A sewage backup is a nightmare. This is one of the plumbing problems you can identify with your sense of smell. Your property smells like sewage when the sewer line backs up. Another common sign of backup is noticeable around drains. For instance, you may notice water coming up when you flush the toilet or turn on a sink faucet.
It goes without saying that a sewage backup is an emergency because it releases air-borne contaminants in your home, which can lead to fever, vomiting, and other unpleasant health conditions.
Gas Leaks
Gas leaks call for emergency help. Though natural gas is odorless, companies add chemicals to add a smell to the gas, allowing us to perceive it. So, if your home smells like rotten eggs, it indicates a gas leak.
Whistling and hissing signs also indicate a gas leak. You can also observe a gas leak around the flame of the stove. An orange flame indicates a ventilation issue.
Here are some physical symptoms you may experience due to a gas leak.
Reach out to a plumber as soon as you encounter any symptoms. These mild symptoms may turn into severe health problems. So call a plumber as soon as you notice any signs.
Overflowing Toilet
A damaged float mechanism or a blocked pipe can overflow your toilet. Either way, it can be an emergency. It floods your bathroom and spreads an unpleasant odor around your property. The key is to turn off the main water supply. Once done, reach out to emergency services and seek immediate help.
Leaky Water Heater
As your water heater ages, it becomes susceptible to leaks. If you notice a water puddle around the heater and see water dripping from the pipes, call an emergency plumber. The wasted water can skyrocket your bills.
We may offer minor repairs or replace the entire water heater, given the intensity of the damage.
Not all plumbing problems are an emergency. A few can be delayed to business days. For instance, if the faucet is dripping, consider placing a bowl underneath.
Likewise, a clogged toilet can usually be be fixed with a plunger. Because plumbers charge more for emergencies, you must assess whether you can delay fixing the problem with a temporary solution.
It can be challenging to stay calm when you encounter a plumbing emergency. However, it's important to stay calm. If you suspect a leak, quickly turn off the main shut-off valve. Then, get in touch with a reliable plumbing company to seek emergency help. We’ll locate the root of the problem and fix it immediately to keep your property from damage.