Don't Panic! Understanding Plumbing Emergencies and When to Get Expert Assistance

Posted by North Shore Emergency Plumber on 2 Jul 2024

Plumbing emergencies are homeowners’ worst nightmare. Burst pipes, clogged drains, leaking fixtures, and gas leaks can cause serious damage to your home and put your family’s safety at risk.

It’s crucial to take care of the issues swiftly and effectively to minimize the damage and ensure your home is safe. In this article, we’ll go over the most commonly encountered kinds of plumbing issues and the best way to handle them in case in the event of an emergency.

Common Types of Plumbing Emergencies

Pipes Burst Pipes

What causes burst pipes?

The majority of burst pipes are caused by cold temperatures, old pipes or high pressure water.

Signs of burst pipes

The signs of a burst pipe include low water pressure, strange noises coming from pipes, damp spots on walls and ceilings, and a decrease in the quality of water.

What to do in the event of a burst pipe

If you suspect the possibility of a burst pipe, turn off the main water supply immediately , and contact a professional plumber.

Clogged Drains

The causes of blocked drains

Clogged drains are typically caused by the buildup of hair or soap scum and other sludge in pipes.

The signs of clogged drains

Signs of clogged drains include slow draining water, gurgling noises coming from pipes, and foul smells.

What to do in case of a drain that is clogged

Try using a plunger or a drain snake to clear the drain. If neither of these approaches work, call a professional plumber.

Leaking Fixtures

Leaks in fixtures are caused by a variety of reasons.

Leaking fixtures are typically caused by worn out or damaged components.

Evidence of fixtures that are leaking

Signs of leaky fixtures include dripping sounds, wet spots on ceilings or walls and an unexpected increase in water bills.

What to do in the event of a leaky fixture

Try tightening loose connections, or replacing damaged parts. If this doesn’t solve the issue, contact an experienced plumber.

Gas Leaks

The causes of gas leaks

Gas leaks are usually caused by damaged pipes or malfunctioning gas appliances.

Gas leaks are a sign of trouble.

Signs of gas leaks are whistling or hissing sound near devices that use gas, rotten egg smell, dizziness, or headaches.

What should you do in the event of an gas leak

If you suspect that there is a gas leak, you should evacuate the house immediately and call an expert plumber.

If you need professional help, call us. Help

Importance of calling an experienced plumber

Professional plumbers have the knowledge of experience, expertise, and the equipment to tackle plumbing emergencies efficiently and quickly. Doing the repair of a plumbing emergency yourself can risk your safety and your property at risk.

These are signs that you may require professional assistance

Signs that indicate you need professional assistance include an abrupt increase in water bills and a drop in the quality of water, and the inability to solve the issue yourself.

What can you expect to find out when you contact to get help

If you contact a professional plumber, you can expect prompt response and a thorough evaluation of the problem, as well as an upfront cost estimate.

Prevention Tips

Regular maintenance of plumbing

Regular maintenance of plumbing can help prevent plumbing emergencies by identifying and fixing small issues before they become larger ones.

Simple steps to avoid plumbing problems that are common

Simple methods to avoid common plumbing issues include using drain screens, avoiding pouring grease down drains, and avoiding flushing non-flushable items down the toilet.

When should you schedule plumbing inspections?

Plan plumbing inspections every year or bi-annually to identify and correct potential problems before they turn into emergencies.

Conclusion

plumbing emergencies are stressful and costly, but addressing them quickly and efficiently can reduce the harm and keep your family safe. Make sure to contact a professional plumber for assistance and adopt preventive measures to avoid common plumbing problems. With these suggestions to ensure the plumbing runs smoothly and prevent expensive and stressful situations. If you’re facing any plumbing issues, don’t hesitate to call North Shore Emergency Plumber at 0480 024 332. We have a team that is highly trained and skilled plumbers are available 24 hours a day to assist you in any plumbing emergency you’re facing.

Most Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What should I do in the event of an emergency with plumbing?

In the event of a plumbing emergency, turn off water to the mains immediately and contact an experienced plumber.

Do I have the ability to repair a plumbing problem myself?

It’s not recommended to try to fix a plumbing issue yourself. It could put your life and your property in danger. It’s best to call an experienced plumber to help.

What do I know about when to call to get help from a professional?

Signs that indicate you need professional help include a sudden increase in your water bill or a decline in the quality of water and the inability to resolve the issue your self.

What can I do to prevent the possibility of plumbing problems?

It is possible to prevent plumbing emergencies from happening by scheduling regular maintenance for your plumbing, taking simple steps to avoid typical plumbing issues as well as scheduling inspections of your plumbing every year or bi-annually.

What do I be looking for in an experienced plumber?

Look for a professional plumber who is licensed, insured skilled, knowledgeable, and has an excellent reputation.

How much does it cost to employ an experienced plumber?

The cost of hiring an experienced plumber can vary depending on the nature of the emergency and the extent of the damage. Contact North Shore Emergency Plumber for an upfront cost estimate.