Top 5 Plumbing Emergencies And How to Handle Them

11 Nov

Top 5 Plumbing emergencies and How to Handle them

Top 5 Plumbing Emergencies in family homes

Dealing with plumbing emergencies can be a daunting experience for many home owners. However, when you know exactly what to do in those critical moments, you can mitigate the damage while seeking professional help. Here are the top five plumbing emergencies and steps on how to handle them:

list of the top 5 plumbing emergencies

1. Burst Pipes

Few things are more alarming than a pipe that's sprung a serious leak or worse - burst altogether. This can cause immense damage if not quickly dealt with.

Handle the immediate issue: Your first step should be to shut off the water supply to stop the water flow. Locate the main valve in your home, often found in your basement or on an exterior wall in a utility area of your home.
Call a plumber: Once you've stopped the immediate flooding, call a professional plumber to make the necessary repairs.

2. Frozen Pipes

During the coldest months of the year, the water in your pipes can freeze and cause them to burst. These are usually identifiable by frost on the outside of the pipe or limited water flow.

Prevention is key: Insulate your pipes during the winter period or keep your heat on to avoid freezing.
Thawing the pipe: If your pipe is frozen but not yet cracked, you might be able to thaw it using a hair dryer set on low heat. Keep it moving, pointing it up and down the length of the pipe. Eventually, you'll want to call a plumber to assess the situation further.

3. Sewer Backup

Nothing ruins a day like a sewer backup. The smell alone can be nauseating, not to mention the mess it creates.

In case of sewer backup: Immediately avoid all contact with the water and call a plumber. This water could be hazardous to your health.
After the plumber visit: It's important to sanitize the area properly after the issue has been resolved to prevent any potential health issues.

4. Gas leaks

Although not strictly a plumbing issue, many plumbers are equipped to deal with gas leaks, which can be dangerous if not dealt with promptly.

Detecting a gas leak: Often, you can smell a gas leak before you can hear or see it. The smell can be likened to rotten eggs. If you suspect a leak, leave your home immediately and contact a professional.

5. Leaky taps

Finally, a leaky taps might not seem like an emergency, but they can waste significant amounts of water and result in a surprising increase in your water bill.

Temporary fix: If you can't get the dripping to stop or notice it's getting worse, turning off the water supply to your tap can provide a temporary fix until you can get a plumber.
Contact a professional: It is best to get a plumber to deal with the problem to avoid further complications and cost down the line.

Remember, it's always better to prevent a problem than to deal with an emergency later on. Regular plumbing maintenance can help identify potential issues before they escalate. Stay safe!