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Plumbing disasters seem to strike at the worst time. They often occur on the weekend, when guests are en route to the home, or on the coldest day of the year, causing chaos and stress for the homeowner. What steps should a person take to handle a plumbing emergency at home?
What is a Plumbing Emergency?
People may wonder whether they need an emergency plumbing repair or if they can wait until regular business hours to call a professional. When the problem is unexpected and potentially destructive, it is best to call for help immediately. A dripping faucet may not be a big deal at first, but the problem will worsen over time. The individual can wait until regular business hours to call for help. If a pipe bursts, however, they need help immediately to prevent significant property damage. Experts would define this as a plumbing emergency that requires immediate attention.
Common Causes of Plumbing Emergencies
Things may lead to a plumbing emergency, such as deteriorating pipes that leak or burst, causing significant water damage. A blockage in the system must be addressed promptly to prevent it from spreading throughout the entire plumbing system. Excessive water pressure puts strain on the pipes, which can lead to damage. An old fixture or appliance that malfunctions is another reason a person might want to call the professionals in right away. They don't want the problem to escalate and potentially cause harm to the structure or its occupants.
Steps to Take in a Plumbing Emergency
When a plumbing emergency occurs, the homeowner must take immediate steps to mitigate the impact of the disaster. They need to shut off the water supply to assess the situation immediately. Once they determine the source of the problem, they should contact a plumber for help. With the help of this professional, the household can return to normalcy as soon as possible.
DIY Steps
The homeowner may address some problems. For example, a clogged drain or toilet may be cleared using a plunger. The homeowner might want to try this as a temporary solution to resolve the issue. However, a plumber should be called in during regular business hours to ensure the blockage has been completely cleared.
A homeowner might also be able to address a small leak with the help of sealing compounds or specialized tape. Again, this repair should only be temporary. Have a professional come out and perform a comprehensive repair to minimize the risk of extensive water damage.
If a homeowner discovers a leak in a rarely used faucet, they may turn off the water supply to that faucet. They can then leave it off until a plumber arrives at the home and corrects the situation. Doing so will resolve the issue until a plumber can visit the property.
Reducing the Need for Emergency Repairs
Homeowners can take steps to reduce the risk of needing an emergency repair. Regular maintenance of the plumbing system is one of the most important things any homeowner can do to prevent problems. If the plumbing system is older, it may be time for an upgrade. Consult with the plumber to determine the condition of the plumbing system. Homeowners should also be aware of signs of potential trouble, so they can reach out to a plumber before the issue escalates.
Water can do significant damage to a home in a short time. Always work with a professional when you encounter a problem within your plumbing system. Doing so provides any homeowner with peace of mind, as they know the work was done correctly and the issue is resolved.