Plumbing emergencies can strike at any time and at any location – during holidays, festivals or even the middle of the night! In such instances, these situations can be both stressful and infuriating.
There are various ways you can avoid these issues, and keep emergency supplies on hand in case something unforeseen should arise.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes can be an ongoing nightmare that causes serious water damage in any home. If your pipes seem frozen, if possible turn off both power and water supply to them as this may help thaw out your pipes quicker. You could also try heating up the area using an electric space heater or hair dryer on high heat setting – these methods should do just as well in thawing out frozen pipe systems as any other.
Make sure that the water valve is open so water can continue flowing if your pipes freeze, or leave an exterior faucet running to ensure water keeps moving through your system. Additionally, leave running an outdoor faucet so water flows uninterruptedly during any downpours or surges in rainfall.
Assure your home is adequately insulated to reduce the risk of frozen pipes by checking insulation levels in your attic, crawl spaces and along your plumbing lines for any gaps that might allow cold air in during wintertime.
Burst Pipes
Recent arctic blasts had many homes across North Texas facing pipe bursts, altering holiday plans and living arrangements significantly. One Fort Worth woman found it particularly heartbreaking to watch her apartment flood early Christmas morning. Both her granddaughter and great-granddaughter reside with her, so providing them with comfort was important to her.
If you suspect your pipes may be at risk, take measures to protect them. Insulate them appropriately. Also open cabinet doors so warm air can reach them.
As well, make sure your pipes are exposed, and if they come near electrical equipment, switch it off immediately. Furthermore, contact an emergency plumber immediately so he or she can assess and make any repairs needed; these professionals can also handle clogged drains and gas leaks with great skill – as long as they’re certified plumbers who adhere to industry standards!
Water Heater Leaks
Leaks from water heaters can be another cause of home water damage. If you’re unsure which culprit caused it, check for moisture around where water enters the tank through its drain valve; if moisture is detected here then that particular valve may need replacing.
Leaks in water tanks can lead to flooding in your home and should be addressed as quickly as possible. If it appears the source is the sewer line, call your local sewage service provider as they should be the ones tasked with clearing it up.
When disaster strikes, choosing a reliable plumbing service is of utmost importance. Look for one with an established track record that offers cost-effective services; additionally make sure your plumber is licensed and insured – if in doubt ask friends and neighbors for recommendations; ultimately a reputable plumber should be able to solve your problems quickly and safely.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains can be the source of immense frustration. Not only can they do irreparable damage to your home, but resolving them without professional assistance is near impossible.
Emergencies usually arise when something goes awry with your sewer or drain lines, which are located underground and require special equipment to access and repair. If you suspect your sewer line has become blocked, turn off all water sources until a professional plumber can arrive and perform repairs.
Clogged sewer lines typically manifest themselves in several ways. Water backing up into your toilets and bathtubs are usually the telltale signs, though you might also detect odd smells or notice that sinks and showers drain slowly. If using a plunger or drain snake doesn’t resolve the issue, call an emergency plumber immediately!