Have you ever experienced a plumbing emergency? These situations are taxing and dramatic for household residents, trying to handle the issue as calmly as possible. However, most homeowners let panic take over and do nothing to prevent household damage coming from a burst pipe, an overflowing toilet, a leaking boiler, or a complete collapse of the plumbing system.
The most crucial action to take in such moments is contacting an emergency plumber. Homeowners can choose from a wide range of plumbing companies with sites like http://bluelineplumbers.com.au, offering various domestic plumbing services. These contractors provide some useful tips over the phone and head directly to clients’ homes.
Take a look at the top reasons for hiring such professionals.
Burst pipes
One of the most common plumbing emergencies requiring immediate assistance is dealing with a burst pipe. Facing such an issue is nerve-racking for homeowners, as the chances of flooding rise by the minute. It’s believed that a bust pipe is capable of gushing a hundred gallons of water during a period of approximately eight hours.
Moreover, corrosion is usually the main cause of burst pipe, particularly in piping systems older than twenty years. Also, the mineral build-up is likely to trigger such an emergency due to the presence of high water pressure trying to eliminate the clogs. This problem is especially common in the course of winter at sub-zero temperatures when the water flowing through the pipes turn into ice. The ice takes more room than water in liquid form, hence causing the tube to burst.
In such moments, the most important thing for homeowners is to remain calm and try to locate the shut-off valve responsible for deactivating the water supply. After making sure no water is gushing from the tube, it’s time to get in touch with an emergency plumber. While waiting for the plumber to arrive, move all the items from the affected area to a dry place.
Once the plumber arrives, he will ensure the main valve is properly shut and inspect the condition of the burst pipe. In most cases, the tube will have to be replaced with a new one so as to prevent future flooding. Go to this page to learn what to do when you find a burst pipe while waiting for the plumber.
Overflowing toilet
A plumbing emergency no homeowner wishes to experience is coping with an overflowing toilet. This issue forces household members to handle an unhygienic situation and deprives them of using the toilet until the problem is fixed. In order to prevent severe overflowing, you’re suggested to shut off the corresponding valve by turning it in a counterclockwise direction. Afterward, contact an emergency plumber to address the issue as soon as possible.
Furthermore, the most frequent causes of an overflowing toilet are either a clogged drain or a malfunctioning float mechanism. An emergency plumber will fix the issue by unclogging the drain with the help of an auger or a plumber’s snake. In the event of a faulty float mechanism, he will replace it with a brand new system. In order to impede the floor from getting deteriorated, use towels and a mop to absorb the standing water.
Leaking pipes
Plenty of homeowners have been annoyed by the sound of dripping water, having no clue where the leak source might be. Even though leaking tubes are often neglected, the source is supposed to be located as soon as possible. On the contrary, your household will start showing signs of damage in the form of mould, mildew, blistered paint, warped floors, peeled wallpapers, etc.
Moreover, the longer you wait to contact a plumber, the higher the chances of a pipe bursting. An emergency plumber would immediately detect the source of the leak and assess the damage to the tube. Depending on the level of damage, he might use a sealant or a rubber patch to take care of minor leaks or replace the tube in the case of a major problem.
Faulty water heater
A malfunctioning water heater is the worst nightmare of any homeowner. Hopping into the shower only to find there’s no hot water can be extremely frustrating. Boilers show signs of damage through leaking, producing strange noises, failing to heat the water inside the tank, etc. Also, if the water coming out of the tank is discoloured and spreads a foul smell, it’s a valid reason to contact an emergency plumber.
Plumbing contractors are experts at detecting the cause of the malfunction, which is usually a loose drain valve. Sometimes, the sediment built up in the bottom of the tank triggers a leak. Regardless of the defect, the plumber will immediately repair the boiler and restore its functionality. Consequently, you’ll prevent flooring damage, common in units placed high above the ground. Also, the cost of your energy and water bills will be substantially reduced.
Plumbing system failure
Probably one of the most serious plumbing emergencies is a complete failure of the plumbing system, which deprives homeowners of practising their standard household routines. In this kind of scenario, toilets refuse to flush; sinks won’t drain, boilers won’t heat the water, washing machines won’t turn on, etc.
Calling a plumber to conduct a detailed inspection in order to diagnose the issue has to be done immediately. Generally, plumbing systems fail due to the exposure of everyday wear and tear for too long, such as longer than forty years. Also, the failure might be triggered by high water pressure, which isn’t supposed to exceed more than eighty psi. Such high pressure is detrimental to all components of the plumbing system, leading to deterioration.
Another way in which water might be damaging to the condition of a plumbing system is being of poor quality. The abnormal presence of iron is diminishing its quality, as well as reducing the function of faucets, boilers, washing machines, dishwashers, and toilets.
Final thoughts
In the event of a plumbing emergency, stay calm and listen to the instructions of the plumber!
