Your home is made up of a complex plumbing system that brings water in and takes wastewater out. We don’t generally think much about our home’s plumbing until there’s a problem.
Here are 6 of the most common plumbing emergencies you need to be aware of.
1. Leaky Fixtures
One of the most common plumbing emergencies in residential properties is leaky fixtures. A leaky faucet might be due to trapped debris, soap scum, or worn out or broken parts.
Unfortunately, the leak you see may only be a small part of what’s going on. You need an emergency plumber to take a look at what’s happening behind and under fixtures and walls.
2. Leaky Washing Machine Hoses
The weakest part of your washing machine is the water hose. Often, when you notice a puddle of water after doing a load of laundry, it’s due to a problem with the hose.
When hoses become kinked, cracked, or bulging, it can cause mould, rust as well as leaks. All of which can become serious problems the longer you leave it.
3. Clogs
You may need to make a 24-hour emergency plumbing call if you discover stubborn clogs in your sinks, toilets or tubs.
A slow draining sink is often due to a build-up of debris. But, when the water doesn’t go down at all, it does become an emergency.
Clogged toilets often make strange sounds, refuse to flush or leak. A working toilet is a necessity. Remember that an unresolved toilet clog can lead to structural damage and raw sewage backups.
If you discover a toilet clog, call an emergency plumber.
Clogged bathtubs and shower drains are likely due to hair clogs or soap scum build-up. Sometimes you may hear a gurgling sound. Or you may have a pool of water up to your ankles while you shower.
There could be serious issues you can’t see which is why you need to call a plumber as soon as possible.
4. Burst Pipes
A burst pipe is one of the most serious plumbing emergencies. Until your emergency plumber arrives, do everything you can to stop water flowing out of the hole.
Find the main shutoff valve and close it. Then, turn on the cold water taps so you can drain trapped water out of your pipes.
The plumber will be able to either repair or replace the burst section of your pipe.
5. Frozen Pipes
Another urgent plumbing emergency is a frozen pipe. Whenever water freezes in a pipe, it can expand and cause the pipe to burst.
Even if the pipe has not split, it is a dangerous situation. Thawing a frozen pipe needs to be handled delicately to prevent thermal water expansion which can burst the pipe.
To prevent this issue, make sure your pipes are insulated before the cold months.
6. Sump Pump Failure
Your sump pump is found in your basement or crawlspace. It keeps the area under your house dry and prevents flooding.
When it fails, you are at risk of flooding or worse a sewer backup. Not only is that smelly, but it is also messy and costly.
If you notice multiple drain clogs, sewage odours, noisy toilets, and puddles around a floor drain, contact a plumber. You may be dealing with a sump pump failure.
Don’t Ignore Plumbing Emergencies
Now you know the 6 most common plumbing emergencies. The best way to prevent serious issues such as these is with regular plumbing maintenance.
Book your appointment today.
