Many people take a DIY approach to plumbing issues and use what they can find in the local supermarket. However, ignoring the root cause of these issues can lead to an escalation and result in extensive water damage to your cost. You’re looking at paying thousands of dollars to fix what could have been a much less expensive plumbing job.
That’s not to say that you shouldn’t do what you can on your own, but there will come a time when you’ll need an expert’s help. Plumbing emergencies should never be put off until later.
Here’s how to know when to call an emergency plumber and how they can help.
Signs of Plumbing Emergencies
So what are the signs that you have a plumbing emergency? It all depends on what’s normal for your home and what isn’t.
Not every situation involves a flooded room or a geyser of water. In some cases, something as simple as low water pressure can mean there’s an unseen problem.
Flooded Home
The most obvious sign that you need to call for an emergency plumber is if you come home to a flooded home. Your house could have flooded for any number of reasons from a backed-up toilet to a burst pipe.
However, it’ll be nearly impossible for you to diagnose the problem without the right set of tools and skills. If anything, you may end up making things worse.
Visible Water Damage
On the other hand, your issue may not be so readily apparent. Just because there isn’t an active flood doesn’t mean that there isn’t water leaking out into your walls, floor, or ceiling.
One way to tell if you have a water leak at home is if you’ve noticed an increased water bill. This is because you’re unknowingly losing water even when you’re not using it.
You may notice musty smells or see water stains around your home. Frequent wet spots in your bathroom may be another sign.
Leaking or Burst Pipe
One of the most common reasons for water damage or flooding is because a pipe has leaked out or burst. These are serious problems for any homeowner because you likely won’t have the tools to fix them. The best you can do is turn off your water while you wait for the emergency plumber to arrive.
Frozen Pipes
If you live in a northern state, then frozen pipes will be an issue. They may also be a problem in southern states that suffer severe temperature drops during the winter months.
When temperatures get below freezing, that can cause the water in your outside pipes to freeze. You won’t get any water flowing into your home. In addition, leaving them as is can cause them to swell and burst.
Low Water Pressure
A more subtle sign of a plumbing emergency is when your water pressure drops. This is often the result of one or more water leaks. However, it may also be a clogged aerator causing it.
Alternatively, the problem could stem from a failing pressure regulating valve. Either way, you should have a plumber come check things out just in case.
Toilet Problems
Overflowing toilets are a nasty problem to deal with.
You can turn off the water supply with a valve behind the toilet. You can then try to fix it with a plunger and see if anything gets dislodged. If the problem persists, then it’s time to call for a plumber.
Unpleasant Smells
It’s normal for a bathroom to have certain smells, but cleaning it regularly should help. However, no amount of cleaning will help if you have sewage smells coming up from your drains.
If you can smell sewage, then that means something is wrong with your septic system. It’s only a matter of time before it starts pumping up and into your toilet and shower.
Clogged Drains
A clogged drain can affect how well your water drains out. Left alone, the clog could get worse over time.
Although it’s a normal problem in areas like your kitchen or bathroom, it may also be a sign of a sewage backup. Take into consideration any other plumbing symptoms like unpleasant smells.
Gas Leak
Unknown to many people, plumbers are also in charge of your gas line. Some signs that you may have a natural gas leak include a rotten eggs smell, a hissing sound, and symptoms of gas poisoning. Your plumber should be able to turn off the gas, find the source of the leak, and repair it.
What An Emergency Plumber Can Do
There are many advantages to calling an emergency plumber rather than trying to fix it yourself.
First of all, they’re equipped with specialized equipment that can help pinpoint plumbing problems. Some have camera inspection tools that allow them to find clogs, cracks, and other issues.
This is especially helpful if they’re dealing with a leaking pipe inside your walls or underneath your flooring. It helps to minimize how much they need to tear down to get at the problem area.
In addition, your emergency plumber will try to fix the issue as quickly as they can. They may advise you to vacate the premises if there’s sewage or some other kind of danger.
Finally, you won’t have to wait days for someone to come see you. However, they may charge more if you need their help during the off hours.
Pick Up the Phone and Make the Call
There’s never a wrong time to call an emergency plumber if you have a plumbing issue. A leaky pipe might not seem like a big problem until your floor gives way due to the water damage. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your home.
Home Team Plumbing offers full-service plumbing in the St. Petersburg, FL area. We have 24-hour emergency services for both residential and commercial buildings. Contact us if you need any help with your plumbing problem.
