Keeping a plumber’s contact information on hand and knowing when to call is the best way to minimize damage. Learn about the signs of plumbing emergencies and what to do and when to call a pro.
A plumbing emergency is when something goes wrong that could hurt you, your stuff or disrupt your normal routine. That includes things like a burst pipe or a flooded basement.
1. Turn Off the Water
Plumbing emergencies tend to happen when we least expect them and can cause chaos in our lives. They can be caused by anything from a burst pipe to a clogged toilet. No matter what the problem is, it’s important to know how to respond in order to minimize damage and keep everyone safe.
The first thing you should do in a plumbing emergency is to shut off the water. This will prevent more water from flowing and will buy you time to call for help. It’s also a good idea to turn off the electricity in the area if there is a risk of water coming into contact with any electrical appliances.
If you don’t know where the water shut off valve is, you can find it by looking in your home’s basement or in a closet. It’s usually located close to the water heater. Make sure to write down where it is so you can find it in an emergency.
2. Call a Pro
When it comes to plumbing emergencies, you should never try to fix them on your own. This puts your family at risk of injury and can make the situation worse. Time-sensitive issues need to be addressed by professional plumbers right away.
If you’re unsure whether or not a problem is an emergency, call your local 24-hour plumber for advice. They will be able to tell you what steps to take in your situation, and they can also give you advice on how to avoid future problems.
Be sure you know where the shutoff valves are for each of your fixtures, and have a list of emergency plumber numbers handy in case of an issue. Also, be sure to keep towels and rags at hand to soak up any excess water to prevent severe damage to your carpets, walls, and furniture. Documentation of any flooding or water damage will also help when filing an insurance claim.
3. Clear the Area
Almost every homeowner will experience a plumbing emergency at some point. Whether it’s a toilet that won’t flush, a shower that’s flooding, or a leaky pipe that threatens to damage your home’s structure, it can be scary and confusing in the moment. However, if you know what to look for and are prepared in advance, you can minimize the damage.
The first step to take in a plumbing emergency is shutting off the water. This is important because it can prevent additional water damage from occurring and give you time to assess the situation. Additionally, it’s a good idea to clear the area around the problem so that the plumber can access it easily. This will save you time and money in the long run. You can use towels, mops, and buckets to soak up the water and make it easier for your plumber to get to work. This will also help reduce the risk of severe structural damage and mold growth.
4. Wait for the Pro
Whether it’s a burst pipe, a toilet that won’t flush, or discolored water, plumbing emergencies require the attention of a professional. But knowing when to call a plumber and what to do while waiting for the pros can help you keep your home safe, minimize damage, and save money.
When choosing a plumber for an emergency, look at their website to find out how quickly they can respond to calls, how far away they are, and whether they offer quotes or general price lists. It’s also helpful to know how much they charge for an hourly rate so you can plan accordingly.
With a little preparation, you can reduce the risk of costly damage to your home by turning off the water and electricity, clearing the area around the problem, and taking pictures of any flooding or other severe problems. So the next time you have a plumbing crisis, you’ll be ready to take the proper steps to protect your home and keep yourself calm.