Don't Panic! Understanding Plumbing Disasters and When to Seek Professional Help

Posted by Baulkham Hills Emergency Plumber on 4 Jul 2024

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

It is crucial to deal with these issues quickly and effectively to limit the harm and keep your home safe. In this article, we’ll go over the most commonly encountered kinds of plumbing emergencies, and the best way to handle them in case in the event of an emergency.

Common Plumbing Emergencies

Burst Pipes

The causes of burst pipes

Pipe bursts are typically caused by freezing temperatures, aging pipes or high pressure water.

Signs of burst pipes

The signs of a burst pipe include low pressure in the water, odd noises emanating from pipes wet spots on walls or ceilings, and a decline in water quality.

What to do in case of a burst pipe

If you suspect that there is a ruptured pipe, turn off your main supply of water immediately and call an experienced plumber.

Clogged Drains

Causes of clogged drains

Clogged drains are typically caused by the buildup of hair or soap scum and other debris that has accumulated in pipes.

The signs of clogged drains

The indicators of a blocked drain include slow draining water, noises coming from pipes, as well as bad smells.

What should you do in the event of a drain that is clogged

Try using a plunger or drain snake to clear the drain. If these methods don’t work, contact a professional plumber.

Leaking Fixtures

The causes of leaky fixtures

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

The signs of leaky fixtures

The signs of leaking fixtures are dripping sounds, wet spots on ceilings or walls and a sudden rise in the cost of water.

What should you do in the event of a fixture that leaks

Try tightening any loose connections, or replacing damaged components. If this doesn’t solve the issue, contact a professional plumber.

Gas Leaks

Causes of gas leaks

Gas leaks are typically caused due to damaged pipes or defective gas appliances.

Signs of gas leaks

The signs of gas leaks include whistling or hissing sound close to the gas appliance, or a musty egg smell, as well as dizziness or headaches.

What to do in the event of an gas leak

If you suspect a gas leak, you should evacuate the home as soon as you notice a gas leak and then call an expert plumber.

When to Call for Professional Assistance

It is important to call a professional plumber

Professional plumbers have the knowledge skills, experience and tools to deal with plumbing issues swiftly and effectively. Trying to fix a plumbing emergency yourself can put your life and safety at risk.

Signs that indicate you need professional assistance

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

What should you expect when you contact for assistance

When you reach out to a professional plumber, you can expect a quick response time and a thorough evaluation of the problem, as well as an estimate of the cost upfront.

Prevention Tips

Regular maintenance of plumbing

Regular maintenance of plumbing can reduce the risk of plumbing problems in identifying small problems before they escalate into bigger ones.

Simple steps to avoid common plumbing problems

Simple ways to prevent common plumbing issues are to use drain screens, not pouring grease down drains, and avoiding flushing non-flushable items into the toilet.

When is the best time to schedule plumbing inspections

Conduct plumbing inspections each year or bi-annually to find and address potential issues before they turn into emergencies.

Conclusion

Emergencies with plumbing can prove stressful and expensive, however addressing these issues quickly and efficiently will reduce the harm and protect your family. Remember to call a professional plumber when you need help, and to make preventive steps to avoid the most common plumbing issues. With these suggestions will ensure that your plumbing system operates smoothly and prevent stress and expense in the event of an emergency. If you’re in the middle of a plumbing emergency, don’t hesitate to call Baulkham Hills Emergency Plumber at 1300 933 202. Our team of highly trained and skilled plumbers is available 24/7 to assist you with any plumbing emergency you’re confronted with.

Most Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How should I proceed in case of an emergency plumbing situation?

If you experience an emergency with plumbing, switch off the main water supply right away and contact an experienced plumber.

Can I fix a plumbing emergency myself?

It is not advised to attempt to fix a plumbing issue by yourself. This can put your safety and property at risk. It’s best to call a licensed plumber to assist you.

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

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

How can I prevent the possibility of plumbing problems?

You can avoid plumbing emergencies from occurring by scheduling regular maintenance for your plumbing and taking the necessary steps to avoid typical plumbing issues, making sure you schedule plumbing checks annually or bi-annually.

What should I look for in an experienced plumber?

Choose a reputable plumber who is insured, licensed skilled, knowledgeable, and has a good reputation.

What’s the price to hire an experienced plumber?

Cost of employing a professional plumber will vary based on the type of emergency and the severity of the damage. Get in touch with Baulkham Hills Emergency Plumber for an upfront cost estimate.