Plumbing Emergencies: ‘Leaking hosepipes’ is a very common sight while passing by households. It contributes to water wastage; around 10,000 gallons on average, every year. That means if you sum up for the whole nation, it comes to around 1 trillion – sounds really unfortunate! Similarly, many such small scenarios happen in our day-to-day lives that go unnoticed. Then, what is the solution? Read on this blog below to find out!

Who is an emergency plumber?

Usually, water leakages are a quick fix, and can be done on own. However, if there is a severe problem, such as accidental pipe bursts, seeking professional help becomes crucial. An emergency plumber is a person who is specially trained to handle such cases. However, before calling him, you must wisely evaluate whether your situation is actually urgent. Ask why? This is because they charge higher for emergency services than general mend-ups. Below, we have stated a list of plumbing emergencies to guide you.

1. Extensive water leakages

Major leaks in the water channels should not be left out for they can disrupt your home’s integrity. Most importantly, check out for the silent ones. They not only lead to water wastage but also favour unwanted fungal and mould growth, thus dampening the interiors. Besides, many health issues may arise, such as, respiratory infections, eye inflammation and so on. Leaking water is also a potential trigger to fire hazards. If by any chance the water comes into contact with the current wires, it can lead to short circuits and electrical shocks.

2. Water stains

When there has been significant leakage for a certain period of time, the walls, floor and ceiling may get stained. This indicates that water is actively seeping into them. Do consider this as an emergency and contact the plumber without any delay.

3. Burst pipes

This is one of the main reasons for flooding in homes. If left unchecked, it can significantly affect your home structure and disrupt regular operations. Leave aside the extensive water wastage that happens! A single pipe burst can weaken the structure of your ceiling, floor and walls, making it unsafe for living. Never try to handle such an issue on own as that will bring more financial losses. Instead, call up a reputed plumber while shutting off the main water channel for the time being.

4. Sagged ceiling

Sometimes, you may notice paints fading away from your ceiling. This is a clear indication of sagginess; bringing your home on the verge of collapse. If you wait for long, the more damage it will incur, raising future costs for restoration. The best you can do is to turn off the main water supply and contact a plumbing company, offering 24/7 services.

5. Low Water Pressure

Another potential harm damaged pipes do is that they bring down the water pressure. If you have been experiencing such for prolonged periods, in multiple faucets, then there must be something fishy in the pipes. Get them checked before it gets too late!

A clogged aerator can also be the reason for low water pressure. However, this should only apply to a single sink except there is clogging in all aerators. As the first line of management, you can clean the aerator to ensure if that solves the issue.

In most domestics, a pressure valve is already installed. It is responsible for regulating the water pressure that connects the street with home. If somehow there is a failure in this valve, you may face water pressure fluctuations. Promptly call an emergency plumber and hand over the case to him.

6. Overflowing toilet

There may be a handful of reasons for a jammed toilet. For example, clogged pipes, damaged float mechanism, etc. Whatever the cause may be – it is next to experiencing a nightmare! For the time being, you can use a plunger to see if the problem gees away. However, if it does not, check out with a plumber and let him know about your emergency!

7. Clogged Drains

The main cause for an obstructed drainage system is disposal of unwanted things. People often throw soiled tissue, shaved hairs and micro plastics into the toilet unknowingly and flush them down. This should be stopped at first place. Also, overgrown tree roots can crack the drains, creating blockages. The best way to identify the underlying cause is to call up a plumbing company. If you notice slow passing of sewage water, frequent bubbling, consider the signs as urgent.

8. Water Heater Failure

Having an electric geyser is a luxury to some, however, may be a basic necessity for others. If you fall under the latter group and suddenly run out of hot water amidst the chilly weather, it is a serious problem. Moreover, cold water (especially if you reside in frozen lands) can give body shocks and can be deadly for the elderly and children. To prevent such a misfortune, promptly tap on the number of your local emergency plumber and get your water heater repaired.

9. Gas Leaks

Natural gas does not give out any smell; hence, additional chemicals like mercaptan are mixed. If you sniff any kind of sudden odours, it is a confirmed case of gas leak. Trace down the source and check out if there is any hissing sound associated. Be swift to contact an emergency plumbing professional for preventing serious hazards.

Try to observe the colour of the flames in your stove or furnace. If they are blue, things are fine. However, orange colour denotes a ventilation issue. A gas leakage can also be identified if one exhibits the following symptoms.

Headaches and persistent dizziness

Breathing problem
Eye irritation
Malaise
Itchy Skin
Bleeding from the nose

The above symptoms are mild. However, prolonged gas exposure can trigger severe issues, or even, lead to death. Special care should be taken for pets, children, older people and also the indoor plants.

10. Backed-Up Sewage

If your house smells awful like drain sludge, it indicates a backed-up sewage. Also, water may overflow into your kitchen basin whenever you flush the toilet. Similar to a gas leak, this can trigger severe health hazards. Sewage backup releases harmful contaminants into the environment, causing symptoms like fever, diarrhoea, etc. So, consider this situation as urgent and call up the nearest plumber to tackle the issue.

Conclusion

Whenever you are struck with a plumbing emergency, keep your mind cool and steady. If it a minor water leakage, turning off the main water supply must be your first task. The same concept applies to gas leakage, too. Such small approaches can prevent the situation from deteriorating while you dial up the numbers of your emergency plumber!

Top 10 Plumbing Emergencies that You Should Know