Don't Panic! Understanding Plumbing Disasters and When to Seek Expert Help
Plumbing emergencies can be homeowners’ worst nightmare. Burst pipes, clogged drains leaky fixtures, gas leaks could cause significant destruction to your home and put the safety of your family at risk.
It is crucial to deal with these issues quickly and effectively to limit the damage and ensure that your home is secure. In this article, we’ll go over the most common types of plumbing emergencies and what to do in the event of an emergency.
Common Plumbing Emergencies
Pipes Burst Pipes
Causes of burst pipes
Pipe bursts are typically caused by cold temperatures, old pipes or high pressure water.
The signs of bursting pipes
Signs of burst pipes are lower water pressure, unusual sounds coming from pipes, damp spots on walls and ceilings, and a decrease in water quality.
What should you do in the event of a burst pipe
If you suspect that there is a ruptured pipe, shut off your main supply of water immediately and contact an experienced plumber.
Clogged Drains
The causes of blocked drains
Clogged drains are usually caused by the buildup of hair or soap scum and other sludge in pipes.
The signs of clogged drains
Signs of clogged drains include slow draining water, loud gurgling sounds emanating from pipes, and bad smells.
What should you do in the event of a clogged drain
Try using a plunger or drain snake to clear the drain. If these methods don’t work, contact an experienced plumber.
Leaking Fixtures
Leaks in fixtures are caused by a variety of reasons.
Leaking fixtures are often result of worn or damaged parts.
The signs of leaky fixtures
Signs of leaking fixtures include drips, damp spots on ceilings or walls, and an unexpected rise in the cost of water.
What should you do in the event of a leaking fixture
Try tightening any loose connections or replacing damaged parts. If this doesn’t solve the problem, call a professional plumber.
Gas Leaks
Causes of gas leaks
Gas leaks are typically caused due to damaged pipes or defective gas appliances.
Signs of gas leaks
Signs of gas leaks include a hissing or whistling sound close to devices that use gas, bad egg smell, and dizziness or headaches.
What to do in the event of an gas leak
If you suspect that there is a gas leak, you should evacuate your home immediately and contact an expert plumber.
When should you call for professional Help
Importance of calling an experienced plumber
Professional plumbers are equipped with the knowledge skills, experience and equipment to handle plumbing emergencies efficiently and quickly. If you attempt to fix a plumbing emergency yourself can put your safety and property at risk.
The signs that suggest you require professional assistance
Signs that suggest you require professional assistance include an abrupt rise in your water bills and a drop in the quality of water and the inability to fix the problem your self.
What can you expect to find out when you reach out for help
When you call a professional plumber, you can expect prompt response as well as a thorough analysis of the problem, as well as an estimate of the cost upfront.
Prevention Tips
Regular maintenance of plumbing
Regularly scheduled maintenance on plumbing can reduce the risk of plumbing problems in identifying minor issues before they become larger ones.
Simple steps to avoid common plumbing problems
Simple steps to avoid common plumbing problems include using drain screens, refraining from dissolving the grease into drains, and avoiding flushing non-flushable items into the toilet.
When should you schedule plumbing inspections?
Schedule plumbing inspections annually or bi-annually in order to detect and address potential issues before they escalate into emergency situations.
Conclusion
Emergencies with plumbing can prove stressful and expensive, however addressing them swiftly and effectively can reduce the harm and keep your family safe. Remember to call a professional plumber for assistance and take preventive measures to avoid the most common plumbing issues. With these suggestions, you can ensure the plumbing is running smoothly and prevent expensive and stressful situations. If you’re facing a plumbing emergency, don’t hesitate to call South Auckland Plumber at 0800 001 969. The team we have of skilled and knowledgeable plumbers are available 24 hours a day to assist you in any issue you might be confronted with.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What can I do in the case of an emergency plumbing situation?
In case of an emergency with plumbing, switch off your main supply of water right away and make a call to a professional plumber.
Can I solve a plumbing issue by myself?
It’s not recommended to try and fix a plumbing emergency yourself. It could put your life and your property in danger. It is recommended to contact a professional plumber to assist you.
How do I know when to reach out for help from a professional?
Signs that suggest you need professional assistance include an abrupt rise in your water bills or a decline in the quality of your water and inability to resolve the issue by yourself.
What can I do to prevent the possibility of plumbing problems?
You can prevent plumbing emergencies from occurring by scheduling regular maintenance of your plumbing by taking a few steps to avoid typical plumbing issues, and scheduling plumbing inspections every year or bi-annually.
What do I look for in a professional plumber?
Find a professional plumber who is licensed, insured and experienced. They also have an excellent reputation.
How much does it cost to hire a professional plumber?
Cost of employing a professional plumber can vary depending on the type of emergency and the extent of the damage. Get in touch with South Auckland Plumber for an upfront cost estimate.