Category Archives: plumbing emergency

Feb '24

Plumbing Problems vs. Plumbing Emergencies: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Problems in your home’s plumbing system are unavoidable, but emergencies in your plumbing system are not. Plumbing emergencies do not have to happen. Homeowners often conflate plumbing problems with plumbing emergencies, but they are not the same according to AIM Real Estate, Inc.

While plumbing emergencies should not ever have to happen in your home, there is nothing you can do to stop plumbing problems from occurring. Problems in your plumbing WILL happen, but if you ignore those problems, they WILL become plumbing emergencies.

Today, we discuss the difference between plumbing problems and plumbing emergencies.

This post will show you the link between plumbing problems and plumbing emergencies. When you finish reading this article, you will see why having plumbing problems in your home should not mean that you will also have plumbing emergencies.

Plumbing problems

These are routine issues that happen in the plumbing system. They are the natural consequences of using the plumbing in the prescribed manner. Plumbing problems stem from wear and tear or aging. They will typically not stop you from using your home’s plumbing fixtures.

Most plumbing problems are not urgent. So you can DIY the problems. Because they are not disruptive, plumbing problems are typically detected during routine use of the plumbing fixtures, and they are solved as part of the home’s regular plumbing maintenance.

Examples of plumbing problems include:

A dripping faucet

The sound of a dripping faucet may be annoying enough to keep you up at night, and the problem can inflate your home’s water bills. But you will still be able to use your faucet despite the issue.

Slow drains

Slow drains are a huge inconvenience and a massive waste of your time (especially if you have to wait for a sink or shower to empty), but they don’t bring your life to an abrupt stop.

Running toilet

Similar to a dripping faucet, a runny toilet is a huge annoyance and a massive waste of money. But this problem will not make your toilet unusable or expose your home to the risk of damage.

Low water pressure

This is another highly frustrating plumbing issue that will waste your time and impair your shower time enjoyment. But you can still live with a low water pressure in your home.

Pipe leaks

Depending on how it happens, pipe leaks are not necessarily an emergency. Leaking pipes that do not damage your flooring, walls, foundation, or landscaping are not an urgent problem.

From the above, you can see that plumbing problems are not pressing. They don’t endanger the structures of your building or prevent the use of your home’s plumbing fixtures.

a burst pipe is considered a plumbing emergency.

It is hard to go to sleep when there is a gaping hole in your water pipe, discharging gallons of water into your home. This problem can result in structural damage to your home and massive property loss.

Plumbing emergencies

Emergencies in the home are generally described as those problems that make your home unlivable, and plumbing emergencies fit this description. Plumbing emergencies typically announce themselves by the amount of damage they can do in a short time.

Plumbing emergencies cannot be ignored or solved with DIY methods because speed is vital when dealing with plumbing emergencies. A plumbing emergency’s highly disruptive nature means that it only worsens the longer it takes to solve the issue.

Examples of plumbing emergencies include:

A burst pipe

Sewage backup

If raw sewage is oozing from your toilet and floor drains, that is a plumbing emergency. This issue will make your home unlivable and expose you to the risk of ill health. It must be solved immediately.

Gas leaks

A gas leak carries the threat of house fires and death by suffocation. That is not a problem you can afford to ignore. Nor is it one you should attempt to DIY.

Flooding

Whether caused by damage to your home’s plumbing or extreme weather events, a flood inside your home qualifies as an emergency because it is disruptive and very destructive.

No water in your home

A sudden break in your home’s water supply qualifies as an emergency because the presence of potable water is one of the key things that make a home livable.

Relationship between plumbing problems and plumbing emergencies

Most plumbing emergencies begin as plumbing problems.

When those plumbing problems are undiscovered, ignored or poorly solved, they degenerate to a point where they cause a disaster in the home. That is why the best way to prevent plumbing emergencies in your home is to deal with plumbing problems as soon as you find them.

To stop plumbing emergencies in your home, follow these steps:

Have a professional inspect your home’s plumbing on a schedule every year
Have your drains professionally cleaned at least once a year
Make sure plumbing issues are properly fixed as soon as they are detected

Lastly, you want to ensure that you have a certified and experienced emergency plumber whom you can trust to find and fix the plumbing problems in your home before those issues grow into highly damaging and costly plumbing emergencies.

Dec '23

The Importance of Hiring Emergency Plumbers for Quick Solutions in Plumbing Emergencies

Plumbing emergencies are those issues in the home’s plumbing that compromise the safety of the home’s occupants. Plumbing emergencies have the distinct quality of making your home unlivable by rendering the plumbing fixtures unusable.

As Action Properties warns, plumbing emergency exposes your family to different kinds of risks, including the risk of ill health and property damage. Another distinctive mark of a plumbing emergency is that its effect is quick and devastating. For that reason, the problem must be fixed at once.

Examples of common plumbing emergencies in the home are:

Overflowing toilet: An overflowing toilet denies you the use of this essential plumbing fixture. If the problem is terrible, the toilet can spill its contents on the floor of your home.
Burst water pipe: A burst water pipe can discharge enormous quantities of water into your home in a short time. This problem is often caused by frozen pipes or weak pipe joints.
Broken water heater: Depending on when it happens, a broken-down water heater is just an annoying problem or a threat to your life (if it happens during winter)
Gas leak: Headaches, dizziness, breathing difficulties, or eye, skin and nose irritation and death are problems that can result from gas inhalation.
Failed sump pump: A sump pump failure can cause basement flooding if the problem coincides with heavy rainfall.
Sewer backup: Due to clogs and blockages in drainpipes, raw sewage can flow backwards through the sewer line into your home.

When confronted with a plumbing emergency in your home, the last thing you want to do is waste time trying to fix the problem yourself. Plumbing emergencies should be left to emergency plumbers; there is no way to overemphasize the importance of this statement.

Why is it essential to only hire emergency plumbers for plumbing emergencies in your home?

Who is an emergency plumber?

An emergency plumber is a professional plumber whose specialty is solving plumbing emergencies. All professional plumbers have the technical skills to solve plumbing emergencies, but emergency plumbers are specifically set up to deal with these kinds of plumbing issues.

The main difference between an emergency plumber and other professional plumbers is the speed of their response. Plumbing emergencies happen at any time, and they do massive damage in a very short time. To solve these problems, you need a plumber who can respond fast.

While it is possible to hire a regular plumber to handle plumbing emergencies in your home, it is not recommended. That is because the most important factor for minimizing the impact of a plumbing emergency is the length of time it takes a plumber to get to your home.

Benefits of hiring an emergency plumber for plumbing emergencies

247-availability

Round-the-clock availability means you can call the plumber in the middle of the night in the dead of winter, and they will show up ready. Regular plumbers are often unable to offer this kind of service.

Minimal wait times

The number one benefit of hiring an emergency plumber is they will show up at your home in record time. This speedy response helps to minimize the impact of a plumbing emergency on your home.

The right tools and equipment

Emergency plumbers have the proper tools to solve common and not-so-common plumbing emergencies in the home. They don’t need to go and find the needed equipment. They can start work as soon as they arrive at your home.

Expertise & experience

Because they regularly deal with these kinds of problems, emergency plumbers have the skills to solve plumbing emergencies quickly. They will diagnose the problem quickly and also provide lasting solutions.

Complete solutions

Instead of a temporary fix – what you often get with a regular plumber – an emergency plumber provides comprehensive solutions to plumbing emergencies because they have the right mix of expertise, experience, tools, and equipment.

Saves money

Hiring an emergency plumber helps you save money because it minimizes the damage caused by a plumbing emergency. Also, by not using makeshift solutions, an emergency plumber helps to prevent future problems.

When should you contact an emergency plumber?

You should not wait until you have an actual plumbing emergency in your home before you contact an emergency plumber.

During the time you take to locate an emergency plumber in your area and get them to come to your home, a lot of damage can happen to your home.

The best time to find an emergency plumber is before having a plumbing emergency in your home. Searching for an emergency plumber before having an emergency will give you time to screen the plumber.

You can’t do this when you are under pressure to solve an ongoing emergency.

Oct '23

Tips for Homeowners to Avoid Plumbing Emergencies

Plumbing emergencies can cause significant damage to your home and disrupt your daily routine. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a clogged drain, or a leaking faucet, these emergencies can be stressful and costly to fix. However, with a few preventive measures and regular maintenance, homeowners can avoid plumbing emergencies and keep their home’s plumbing system in good working order. In this article, we will provide you with essential tips to help you prevent plumbing emergencies and ensure the longevity of your plumbing system.

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial in preventing plumbing emergencies. Performing routine checks and addressing issues early on can save you from costly repairs down the line. Here are a few key areas to focus on during inspections:

1. Check for Leaks

Leaks are one of the most common plumbing issues that can lead to emergencies if ignored. Regularly inspect all visible pipes, faucets, and fixtures for any signs of leakage. Pay attention to water stains, dampness, or pooling water, as these can indicate a leak. If you notice any leaks, promptly repair or replace the affected components to prevent further damage.

2. Maintain Proper Water Pressure

High water pressure can put excessive strain on your plumbing system, increasing the likelihood of a burst pipe. Use a pressure gauge to measure the water pressure in your home. If it exceeds 80 psi (pounds per square inch), consider installing a pressure regulator to maintain a safe and consistent pressure level.

3. Insulate Exposed Pipes

During colder months, uninsulated pipes can freeze and burst, causing significant damage. Insulate any exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas such as the basement, attic, or crawl spaces. This simple step can help prevent pipe bursts and save you from costly repairs.

4. Clear Clogs Promptly

Clogged drains can lead to backups and overflowing water, creating a plumbing emergency. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage your pipes over time. Instead, use a plunger or a drain snake to clear minor clogs. For persistent or severe clogs, it’s best to call a professional drain cleaning plumber to prevent further damage.

the use of drain screens to prevent clogged drain emergencies.

Prevent debris, hair, and other particles from clogging your drains by using drain screens.

Proper Usage and Maintenance of Plumbing Fixtures

How you use and maintain your plumbing fixtures can greatly affect the longevity of your plumbing system. Follow these tips to avoid plumbing emergencies related to fixtures:

1. Use Drain Screens

Prevent debris, hair, and other particles from clogging your drains by using drain screens. These inexpensive filters can be placed over drains to catch unwanted materials. Regularly clean the screens to ensure proper water flow and prevent clogs.

2. Avoid Flushing Non-Flushable Items

Toilets are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper. Avoid flushing non-flushable items such as wipes, feminine hygiene products, and paper towels. These items can easily clog your toilet and lead to costly plumbing repairs.

3. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Kitchen Sink

Kitchen sinks are prone to clogs caused by grease, oil, and food scraps. Avoid pouring grease down the drain, as it solidifies and can block the pipes. Use a strainer to collect food particles and dispose of them properly in the trash. Regularly clean the strainer to maintain proper water flow.

4. Maintain Your Water Heater

A malfunctioning water heater can cause a variety of plumbing issues, including leaks and inconsistent water temperatures. Regularly inspect your water heater for signs of corrosion, leaks, or unusual noises. Drain and flush the tank annually to remove sediment buildup and improve its efficiency. If you encounter any problems, it’s advisable to have a professional plumber service your water heater.

Inform a trusted neighbor or family member about your vacation plans and provide them with your contact information.

Prevention During Vacations

When planning a vacation, it’s important to take certain precautions to prevent plumbing emergencies while you’re away. Follow these steps before leaving your home unattended:

1. Shut off the Water Supply

Locate the main shut-off valve for your home’s water supply and turn it off before leaving. This precautionary measure will prevent any potential leaks or bursts from causing significant damage in your absence.

2. Drain Water Systems

To further protect your plumbing system during extended vacations, consider draining your water systems. This includes turning off individual supply valves to appliances, flushing toilets to empty the tanks, and letting faucets run until there is no more water in the pipes. Draining the water helps eliminate the risk of frozen or stagnant water causing damage.

3. Inform a Trusted Neighbor or Family Member

Inform a trusted neighbor or family member about your vacation plans and provide them with your contact information in case they need to reach you in an emergency. This person can keep an eye on your property and notify you or a professional plumber if any plumbing issues arise.

Conclusion

By implementing these tips for homeowners to avoid plumbing emergencies, you can maintain a functional and efficient plumbing system in your home. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and mindful usage of plumbing fixtures will help prevent emergencies and save you from costly repairs. Remember to address any plumbing issues promptly to minimize damage and seek professional assistance when necessary. With these preventive measures, you can ensure the longevity of your plumbing system and enjoy a stress-free living environment.

Jun '23

Is This a Plumbing Emergency or Can it Wait Until Monday?

As a homeowner, you’ll undoubtedly have plumbing issues every now and then. Some of these issues can wait while others are emergencies that require swift action. Unfortunately, not everyone can tell the difference between the two. Failing to recognize a plumbing emergency can lead to significant damages, which can be costly to repair. In this article, we’ll explore several plumbing issues that qualify as emergencies and others that you can wait until Monday to address.

The Signs of a Plumbing Emergency

While some plumbing issues can wait, some demand immediate attention. Do not hesitate to call an emergency plumber if you notice any of the following:

A burst pipe: A burst pipe is a severe issue that requires immediate repairs. A burst pipe can cause extensive water damage and may flood your home.

Sewage backup: A sewage backup may result in the waste backing up out of your pipes and into your home. It poses a severe health hazard that requires swift action.

No hot water: A hot water shortage may indicate a more severe issue, such as a broken water heater. Your plumber can diagnose the issue and provide you with a solution.

Frozen pipes: Frozen pipes can burst and cause significant damage. If you notice frozen pipes, call in a plumber immediately to prevent them from bursting.

A Gas Leak: A gas leak is a severe issue that can result in a fire or explosion. If you smell gas or hear hissing, evacuate your home immediately and call your gas company and plumber.

Plumbing Issues That Can Wait Until Monday

Some plumbing problems aren’t emergencies but still require attention. These issues can wait, and you can schedule your plumber for repairs on Monday. Some of the common plumbing problems that fall under this category include:

Dripping faucets: A dripping faucet may not seem like a big deal, but this can significantly increase your water bill, and the constant sound of dripping can be irritating.

Clogged drains: Clogged drains are annoying, but they aren’t emergencies. Try to unclog the drain yourself, but avoid using chemical cleaners that can damage your pipes. If you can’t unclog a drain, consider calling a professional drain cleaning plumber.

Low water pressure: Low water pressure could indicate a minor issue such as a clogged aerator or a pipe leak. A professional plumber can diagnose and fix the problem.

Running toilets: If your toilet continues to run after flushing, it could be due to a damaged flapper or the fill valve that needs replacement. It’s not an emergency, but it’s essential to address it to prevent an increased water bill.

a plumber repairing pipes as an emergency call.

Schedule regular maintenance with your plumber. Regular maintenance can address minor issues before they escalate into serious emergencies.

Tips for Preventing Plumbing Emergencies

Prevention is better than cure, and that is why you should take steps to prevent plumbing emergencies. Here are some ways to prevent plumbing issues:

Regular maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance with your plumber. Regular maintenance can address minor issues before they escalate into serious emergencies.

Avoid flushing non-decomposable items: Flushing non-decomposable items such as wipes, feminine products, and paper towels down the toilet can clog your pipes, leading to severe plumbing issues.

Protect your pipes during winter: During winter, your pipes are susceptible to freezing, which can lead to burst pipes. Protect your pipes by insulating them and maintaining a constant trickle of warm water.

Be mindful of what goes down your drains: Avoid pouring grease, oil, and other liquids down your drains. They can solidify and cause clogs that can lead to extensive damage to your pipes.

Install a water softener: Hard water can cause limescale buildup, which can damage your pipes and appliances. Consider installing a water softener to prevent the buildup.

Conclusion

Plumbing emergencies can happen at any time, and all homeowners should know how to respond. Knowing the difference between a plumbing emergency and a plumbing issue that can wait until next week can save you time, money, and prevent severe damages. Remember, always call in an emergency plumber if you’re unsure of the nature of your plumbing issue. Do not attempt DIY repairs, as this can cause further damage.

May '23

How to Handle a Plumbing Emergency Before it Gets Out of Hand

A plumbing emergency is any plumbing problem that has the potential to harm your health and your property warns, Leenan Management. Plumbing emergencies have the distinct quality of completely disrupting a home’s day-to-day activities. They make it impossible to live your life normally.

Most plumbing emergencies happen suddenly, resulting from issues that were either missed or neglected. Because of their highly destructive nature, plumbing emergencies can cause much damage in a very short time. Plumbing emergencies have to be addressed at once.

The most common plumbing emergencies in homes are:

Overflowing toilets

This is when a toilet refuses to flush. Instead of emptying into the drain, the toilet bowl fills with human waste and water. An overflowing may even spill its contents on the toilet floor.

Sewer backup

This is the grossest kind of plumbing emergency to have in your home. A sewer backs up when its content flows backward and enters the house through the floor and toilet drains. A sewer backup will cause massive damage.

Water heater problems

Plumbing emergencies include a leaky water heater or one not producing hot water. When temperatures are very low and hot water is essential in winter, this problem can devastate a household.

Burst pipes

A burst pipe can spill hundreds of gallons of water into your home in minutes. Pipes can burst from old age, poor maintenance, or extreme temperature changes.

Frozen pipes

If the water inside the home’s main water supply line freezes, the water supply to the entire home will be cut off. This problem mostly happens in winter, especially in areas where winter is freezing.

Gas leaks

This plumbing emergency is the most dangerous because of its high fire risk and loss of life or property. Gas leaks are a special plumbing emergency and must be treated with the utmost urgency they deserve.

What is the best way to deal with a plumbing emergency? The best way to deal with plumbing emergencies in the home is not to have them at all. But if the plumbing emergency is already underway, there are steps you can take to reduce the impact of the problem on your home.

How to keep plumbing emergencies from getting out of hand

Turn off the water supply

Depending on the plumbing emergency, you can stop the water supply by turning the valve at the base of the affected fixture or your home’s main water shutoff valve. Everyone in your home should know the location of the main shutoff valve and how to use it (well before a plumbing emergency arises).

Don’t add more water to the drain

If you have an overflowing toilet, do not attempt to solve the problem by flushing it again; it could result in your toilet floor getting flooded. If sewage in your home is backing up, ensure that no drain in the house is discharging more water into the overflowing sewer line.

Turn off the hot water system

To avoid damage to your water heater after you shut off the water supply, make sure the water heater is turned off. Your water heater could quickly overheat and burst if you turn off the water but leave the hot water system on. Also, remember to turn off the gas if you have a gas system.

Open external drains and spigots

Even after turning off the water at the main shutoff valve, some water will still be inside your pipes. This water can find its way to your home’s damaged pipe or plumbing fixture and worsen the problem. To prevent this, open any spigots that are outside the house.

Remove your belongings from the area

Remember to remove your personal belongings from the emergency area to limit the cost of repairs. All items that can be damaged by water should be moved. Even if an item is waterproof, you should consider removing it if the plumbing emergency is a sewer backup.

Call your plumber

Do not try to solve the issue yourself; call an emergency plumber. A DIY solution will only give the problem time to do more damage. If the plumbing emergency is a gas leak, immediately turn off the gas supply, go outside your home, and then call your plumber. If you don’t know how to turn off the gas, call the plumber, and they will tell you how, or contact the gas supply company.

Finally, the best time to find a good plumber to deal with plumbing emergencies in your home is not when the emergency happens but long before the problem occurs. A good local plumber can even help you avoid the plumbing emergency altogether.

Building an ongoing relationship with a reputable plumber is the best way to prevent and solve plumbing emergencies. Doing this before the problem happens ensures you are not left at the mercy of unscrupulous plumbers when disaster strikes.