What to Do When You Have an Emergency Plumbing Problem
If you have a plumbing emergency, the first thing to do is shut off your water. Find the main valve for your home and turn it clockwise to stop the water flow.
Even small plumbing issues can become emergencies if they are left untreated. Unchecked, they can lead to extensive water damage and expensive repairs. Contact Emergency Plumbing Aurora CO now!
A burst pipe can cause significant water damage to your home, putting you and your family at risk. It can also lead to mold growth and structural problems. This is why it’s important to call emergency plumbing as soon as you notice the signs of a burst pipe, such as visible leaks or water seepage. The more quickly the problem is addressed, the less damage your property will sustain.
The most common reason pipes burst is a blockage. This can be caused by the accumulation of debris in your pipes, such as food scraps, grease, hair, non-flushable items, and wipes. It can also be caused by an overflowing toilet or drain, which puts undue pressure on the pipes. If left unchecked, this can eventually lead to a full rupture.
Other reasons pipes may burst include corrosion, which can weaken the integrity of the pipe over time. Exposure to harsh chemicals or high temperatures can also weaken your pipes, making them more likely to break. Pipes are also more prone to bursting at the point where they connect to other pipes, as this area experiences especially high levels of water pressure.
When a pipe bursts, it can release a significant amount of water into your home, causing extensive water damage to your furniture and flooring. The excess moisture in the air can also create a favorable environment for mold growth, which poses health risks for your family.
Fortunately, burst pipes can be prevented with regular maintenance and preventative steps. A plumber can help you ensure that your pipes are in good condition, preventing them from breaking down or leaking. They can also advise you on the best ways to protect your pipes during colder weather, such as insulating them and keeping them at a higher temperature.
The best way to minimise damage caused by a burst pipe is to act promptly. Shutting off the water supply, contacting a professional plumber, and removing any visible signs of water damage are key initial steps. By taking these measures, you can minimize the financial repercussions of a burst pipe and safeguard your home against future incidents.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are a common household problem. They can be caused by a variety of issues, including foreign objects, mineral buildup, and more. Fortunately, these problems are relatively easy to treat with a professional plumber’s help.
Most clogs are the result of slow buildup over time as grease, hair, soap scum, or other debris sticks to the walls of your pipes. These clogs can lead to water backups and other unpleasant symptoms. It’s important to recognize the early signs of a clog and be proactive about calling in a plumber before it gets worse.
It’s also important to be careful about what you put down your drains. Items like cotton swabs, food scraps, and dental floss can all cause clogs if they aren’t flushed properly. Make sure to get a drain cover that can easily trap these items and keep them from entering your pipes in the first place.
Another major cause of clogged drains is simply general wear and tear on your pipes. As these pipes break down, they can become disintegrated and block the flow of water through them. If you suspect a pipe is broken, it’s a good idea to call in an emergency plumber right away so they can replace it without damaging the rest of your plumbing system.
If you have a clogged toilet, sink, or bathtub, you may be tempted to try and fix it yourself using a DIY method. However, if the problem is serious, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. They have the tools and experience to tackle even the most stubborn clogs without damaging your pipes.
One of the most unpleasant and dangerous problems caused by clogged drains is the possibility of raw sewage backing up into your home. This is often the result of a blocked sewer line or septic tank. Unfortunately, this is a difficult problem to prevent because it’s impossible to see what’s happening inside your underground pipes. This is why it’s so important to understand the causes of clogged drains and seek out regular maintenance from an experienced plumber.
Broken Faucets
A broken sink or faucet can be a sign of a bigger problem. For example, a leaky faucet isn’t just inconvenient; it can lead to water damage that threatens your home’s structural integrity. If you notice that your sink or bathtub is leaking, it’s best to call a plumber right away. They can diagnose the issue and provide a long-term fix.
Dripping or leaking faucets aren’t considered emergencies by professional plumbers, but they should be addressed as soon as possible. They waste gallons of water every month and can cost you thousands of dollars over the course of a year. In most cases, the problem can be fixed with a replacement cartridge or aerator. However, if you have multiple leaky faucets, it’s likely time to replace your entire faucet.
If you’re looking to repair your own faucet, start by shutting off the water supply. Look for the fixture shut-off valves underneath the sink and turn them clockwise. Next, remove the faucet handle and expose the stems. Use pliers to loosen the retaining nuts, then pull out the old stems and install new ones. Make sure to mark and label each part as you remove it so you can put them back in the same order later. Finally, reassemble the faucet and turn the water on to test for leaks.
Sewer line backups are a serious emergency that needs to be dealt with immediately. They can lead to flooding, wastewater in your home’s interior, and health risks. If you suspect that your sewer line is backing up, stop using any water in the house until you can contact a plumber.
Typically, the cause of a sewer line backup is tree roots, debris blockage, or issues with the main line. You can usually tell when you have a sewer line backup based on wet patches in your yard or low water pressure in your home. To minimize the damage, refrain from using any water in your home and contact a plumbing company as soon as possible. They can assess the situation and offer immediate solutions, including sewer line cleaning.
Water Leaks
A water leak is considered a plumbing emergency because it can cause serious damage in a short amount of time. Even if the leak is only a few drops per minute, it can lead to high water bills, property damage, mold growth, and other issues. If you suspect you have a leak, call an emergency plumber right away.
It’s best to prevent water leaks by regularly checking and repairing any pipes, fixtures, or appliances that may be leaking. Having the proper shut-off valves installed is also helpful. This way, you can easily stop the flow of water to a specific area when needed.
When you do encounter a leak, it’s important to turn off the water supply as soon as possible. This can be done by turning off the valve located under a sink or at the main water supply. Once the water is turned off, you can begin to assess the damage and determine if it requires the attention of an emergency plumber.
A continuous leak will waste tons of water and increase your water bill significantly over time. It can also result in rotting walls and floors, as well as sagging ceilings and drywall. Emergency plumbers can use tools to locate the source of the leak and make the necessary repairs.
Another common reason to call an emergency plumber is to address a sewer backup. This is a health hazard because it can release toxic chemicals into the home and affect your family’s health. Emergency plumbers can use special equipment to locate and clean the clog.
Whether it’s a burst pipe, clogged toilet, or broken faucet, knowing when to call emergency plumbing is essential for any homeowner. By keeping the phone numbers for reputable emergency plumbers nearby, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to get the help you need in no time at all. Be sure to check reviews and credentials before hiring anyone. You can also ask for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors. Online search platforms and apps can also be useful tools to find local emergency plumbers.