Why You Need an Emergency Plumber

Given that plumbing systems deteriorate over time, we’re bound to encounter problems eventually. Various plumbing issues require immediate action, from inoperative water heaters to unpleasant sewage backups.

What qualifies as a plumbing emergency? We've rounded up a list of plumbing emergencies to ensure you do not ring a professional service provider without an apparent need. This will keep you from investing your money in the wrong place.

Reasons You Need to Call In an Emergency Plumber

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), house leaks waste around 10,000 gallons of water yearly. A rough estimate tells us that the wasted water is enough to provide up to 11 million homes.

Because millions of people globally lack access to adequate water, we must take prompt action to conserve water. Besides doing what’s ethically correct, a few plumbing problems are worth treating to optimize our well-being.

Water Stains

You won’t see water stains for a minor leak on your property. They begin to appear once the leak has been there for a considerable time. This means the water had been soaking your ceiling and walls without you even knowing it.

Water stains generally signify a pipe leak and require immediate action. Contact an emergency plumber right away to address the problem.

Malfunctioning Water Heater

If you do not mind cold showers, a faulty water heater might not bother you. However, failing to heat the water is only one part of the problem.

Numerous other issues can arise with water heaters, from the system blasting scalding hot water to its components leaking. These and more related problems need your attention.

Unfortunately, DIY hacks cannot fix a dysfunctional water heater because the system's complexities are difficult to understand.

Each water heater has varying functionalities. This explains why we have different water heaters on the market, from solar to tankless and storage to heat pump water heaters.

Only a professional can resolve the underlying problem and restore your water heater. If you stumble upon water heater leaks or the device fails to warm the water properly, it’s time to seek professional help.

Leaks

Minor leaks are usually not an emergency. However, it’s time to call an experienced plumber when they damage your property's integrity. Leaks can cause significant damage to your home, from weakening the foundation to encouraging mold and mildew growth.

Even worse, a severe leak risks fire hazards. For instance, the water may reach electrical wiring, leading to a short circuit. So, if you spot a water leak, turn off the main water supply and contact an emergency plumber immediately.

Reduced Water Pressure

Low water pressure isn’t always an emergency. The most common reason for reduced water flow is a blocked aerator. If you want to attempt a simple fix, take the aerator apart and dip it in vinegar overnight to unclog it. See if this helps restore the water pressure.

If it doesn’t, and you consistently encounter reduced flow throughout your home, it may signify an underlying problem.

Maybe a pipe leak is causing the water to flow elsewhere, or a clog in the pipes is the culprit. Such issues call for an emergency plumbing service, and a professional can help in this regard.

Burst Pipes

A burst pipe could be one of the most unpleasant scenarios any property owner can encounter. A damaged pipe can release gallons of water inside your home, wreaking havoc on your furniture, walls, ceiling, and flooring.

Severe water damage can hurt your wallet because you’d be bound to pay for costly repairs later.

Therefore, rush to turn off the main water supply and call an emergency plumber immediately. They’ll inspect your property to discover the burst pipes and repair them to keep your property from further damage.

Overflowing Toilet

An overflowing toilet can be an absolute nightmare. Imagine entering your bathroom for a morning shower only to find it flooded. Not only does it risk fall hazards, but it also spreads unpleasant odors.

Simply reach for the valve behind the toilet and turn it off to curb the water flow. You’ll need to shut-down the main water supply if it doesn't.

Because you eventually need to turn on the water supply to access water, you’ll encounter the overflow again. Therefore, it’s time to contact an emergency plumbing service provider and ask for help.

Frozen Pipes

Harsh winter days can take a toll on your pipes. Because the water expands upon freezing, it can likely crack the pipe. Once the ice thaws, the water will enter your property, causing severe water damage.

As a rule of thumb, you must insulate your pipes to keep them from freezing. However, once the pipe freezes, contact the emergency plumber right away. They might thaw the ice and prevent the pipe from freezing. In other instances, however, repairing the damaged pipe will keep your home from water damage.

Sewage Backup

Clogged toilets are annoying, but have you ever dealt with a sewage backup? This means the clean and wastewater mix. Not only does it risk your health, but it also spreads nasty smells on your property.

Strange odors and clogged drains are a few common signs of sewage backups. Make sure you reach out to an emergency plumber to keep the backup from releasing airborne contaminants that may lead to fever, vomiting, and other health issues.

Gas Leak

Manufacturers add weird-smelling chemicals to make natural gas perceivable. So, if you smell rotten eggs or sulfur around your property, it may indicate a gas leak. Whistling and hissing sounds also signify a gas leak.

A gas leak may cause headaches and dizziness. More severe symptoms include troubled breathing and nosebleeds. Make sure you call a plumber as soon as you notice any signs.

After all, the cost you save by delaying the problem only risks your well-being.

Choose River City Expert Plumbing

Not every plumbing problem around your property calls for an emergency service. For instance, a minor faucet drip can be delayed to business days. Likewise, a clogged drain can be fixed by pouring boiling water mixed with baking soda and vinegar.

However, the issues that risk damage and health hazards require immediate action. Make sure you reach out to a reliable emergency plumber at River City Expert Plumbing and have them fix the problem before it deteriorates your property.