Functional plumbing is one of the many things in life that we tend to take for granted – until the toilet won’t flush or the faucet starts dripping. While some plumbing problems are more of an annoyance than an emergency, there are other issues that can quickly get out of hand and require emergency service. Here are a few of the most common plumbing emergencies, and what you can do to mitigate the damage.
Busted Pipes
For homeowners that live in areas where temperatures dip below freezing in the winter, frozen pipes are an all-too-common occurrence. Pipes that freeze inevitably break, often causing water damage and necessitating a costly and inconvenient full pipe replacement. If a pipe does burst on you, immediately turn off your home’s main water supply, and turn on the cold water to empty the pipes of any remaining water. Then call a plumber for emergency repairs.
Clogged Toilets
A toilet clog is one of the most dreaded plumbing emergencies. In the event of a clog, first make sure the toilet isn’t in danger of overflowing. If it looks like it is, quickly take the lid off the tank and close the toilet flapper, or turn off the water supply valve behind the tank. Next, use a funnel-cup plunger to try to clear the clog. Hopefully, this is all it takes to clear the obstruction. If not, a toilet auger is the next option and can be found at most hardware stores. If that doesn’t work, it’s time to call the plumber.
Leaky Faucets
While a leaky faucet may not be a major emergency, it can certainly be a strain on your sanity. You can usually fix the leak yourself by replacing the seat washer, seals or o-rings, depending on what type of faucet you have. If this doesn’t take care of the problem, bite the bullet and call the plumber. If left to itself, a leaky faucet will run up your water bill and could potentially lead to the formation of rust and mold growth.
Sewer Backup
Of course, a clogged toilet is nothing compared to the nightmarish scenario of your sewer system backing up into your house. Signs of this include bad odors coming from the drains, multiple drains clogging, water around the basement floor drain and burbling toilets. If you notice any of these signs in conjunction, don’t hesitate: call a plumber ASAP!
Handyman Connection Offers Expert Plumbers
If you are in need of plumbing assistance for non-emergency issues, Handyman Connection has excellent craftsmen who would be happy to take care of any home plumbing repair. Don’t forget to give us a call at 1-800-88-HANDY for your next plumbing project.
