Plumbing emergencies are an inevitable challenge that many homeowners face. Whether it’s a leaky faucet or burst pipes, these emergencies can strike in the dead of night or while you’re enjoying your morning coffee.
While the first thing you should do is grab your phone and give Clearpath Drainage a call, here are a few plumbing emergencies you may come across and how to handle them until our team arrives.
Burst Pipes
Burst pipes are a common plumbing emergency that can lead to extensive damage if not handled promptly. Exposed pipes and freezing temperatures are a terrible combination, therefore, your pipes and tanks must be insulated correctly to ensure minimal damage. A drop in temperature is only one of the many reasons for burst pipes. Corrosion, improper connections, and excessive water pressure can all contribute to you having to deal with burst pipes.
To mitigate any major water damage, it’s essential you locate and turn off the main shut-off valve of your home. You should then reach out to a plumbing professional to assess the damage and perform any necessary repairs.
Clogged Drains and Toilets
Stepping into your bathroom and finding a pool of water on the floor or realising your toilet refuses to flush is one way to disrupt your daily routine. It’s important to remember your toilet or sink is not a dustbin, and you should avoid using it to throw away all your waste. Oils, excessive amounts of hair, sanitary products, wet wipes and pharmaceutical products are just a few of the items you should avoid rinsing down your drains.
If you find yourself having to contend with a blocked sink or toilet, it’s best to avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners, as this can corrode your pipes. Alternatively, you can use a plunger or a natural solution of baking soda and vinegar to dislodge the blockage. However, it’s always best to contact professionals to prevent further damage.
Leaking Fixtures
Is there anything more annoying than leaky fixtures? While having to contend with water leaking from your faucets may seem like a minor inconvenience you can live with, it can actually cost you in the long run. Whether it’s your kitchen tap or shower head, leaking water can cause an increase in your water bill and, if left unchecked for too long, can cost you a fortune to repair. While most leaking fixtures are minor plumbing problems, they can sometimes indicate a more serious problem. The best solution is to call a plumber to evaluate the situation and handle the situation as required.
Sewer System Backup
There’s nothing more panic-inducing than dealing with foul smells and slow drainage. These symptoms are often the result of a backed-up sewer system backup, which can be messy, expensive and inconvenient. A sewer backup usually happens when the water can no longer flow freely through your home’s plumbing system. This could be the result of a blockage that needs to be removed before it causes further damage. If you notice slow drainage throughout your home, it’s always best to call the professionals.
How to Prevent Future Plumbing Emergencies
When it comes to ensuring your plumbing system remains in tip-top shape, prevention is better than cure. Here are a few ways you can avoid those dreaded plumbing emergencies:
Regular Maintenance & Inspections: Regular maintenance can be a great way to avoid calling your local plumber in a panic. A professional can easily identify corroding pipes, potential leaks and other concerns that may be a headache in the future. Dealing with minor problems now can help you avoid it snowballing into a major problem and can save you in the long term.
Dispose of Waste Properly: As mentioned previously, your drainage system is not a dustbin! Be mindful of what you flush or rinse down your pipes, as this can have huge repercussions down the line.
When All Else Fails, Call the Professionals
A plumbing emergency can strike at any time, and dealing with these common plumbing emergencies can be a headache. However, you must take quick action, as this can help prevent any significant damage and costly repairs.
No matter your plumbing emergency, you can rely on Clearthpath Drainage to ensure your plumbing system is up and running in no time! Our team of professionals offer quick and professional plumbing services with a 24 hour call for those pesky emergencies.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.