Plumbing problems are common. However, some need immediate attention to avoid major damage and costly repairs. EPA Statistics found that the average US household can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water yearly due to leaks.
Plumbing problems occur more frequently. Some of them require immediate attention to prevent severe damage and costly repairs. You don’t have to wait until the next day for help when you have a plumbing emergency.
This disrupts your daily life. It can lead to significant health risks and costly damage if not fixed soon.
But how you should know when to call a plumber? Fortunately, some signs indicate you have a plumbing issue. Read about those signs below to gauge when to call for emergency plumbing services.
What is meant by Emergency Plumbing Services?
Emergency plumbing services are ready to help you right away when you have a severe plumbing issue. These services are available 24/7 because plumbing issues can happen anytime, day or night.
Regular plumbing services handle non-urgent problems, such as a dripping faucet or a slow drain. At the same time, emergency plumbing services are for serious issues that can’t wait. When you need emergency plumbing services, you want a plumber who can fix the problem quickly.
If you are unsure how bad the issue is, it’s better to call an emergency plumbing professional like Houston Plumbing Expert.
Signs You Need to Call For Emergency Plumbing Services
Having an idea when you need to call for residential plumbing services can save you from a lot of stress and damage. Here are some clear signs that you need to pick up the phone and get professional help immediately.
1. Sever Water Leaks
A leaky water pipe may leak almost 200 gallons in one day. It can damage your property. If not fixed soon, these leaks can also cause harm. They lead to damage, mold, and costly repairs.
If you find water leaks, try to shut off the main water supply and call a plumber immediately. This is one of those times when you need to call for emergency services.
2. Burst Pipe
Burst pipes are one of the most severe problems homeowners can face. This problem especially occurs in winter when pipes freeze and can easily break. A burst pipe can flood a home in no time. It can cause extensive water damage to floors, walls, and personal belongings.
If you face any similar situation, immediately turn off the main water supply. Frozen pipes when to call a plumber is suitable when you notice ice or water leaks.
3. Clogged Drains
A clogged drain might seem minor, but if water backs up and floods your home, it’s an emergency. Clogged gutters can lead to standing water in sinks, tubs, and showers, leading to a breeding ground for bacteria and unpleasant odors.
When to call a plumber for a clogged drain is when a plunger or drain cleaner doesn’t work, and water starts to overflow. Clogs that keep coming back might mean a deeper problem in your plumbing. It needs professional help.
4. Overflowing Toilet
An overflowing toilet is a mess no one wants to deal with. It can quickly happen in the drainpipe. It might be a faulty float mechanism or a septic problem. Call a plumber for a clogged toilet when plunging doesn’t help, and the water keeps rising.
5. Sewage Backups
Call emergency plumbing services if you smell foul odors or sewage from your drains. Sewage backups are unpleasant and a health hazard. Exposure to raw sewage can lead to severe illnesses and infections. This issue can result from blockages in the main sewer line, tree roots, or damaged pipes.
What to Say When Calling a Plumber?
When you need to call for plumbing services, providing clear and detailed information is essential. It will help them quickly analyze the problem and bring all the necessary gadgets. Here is a simple guide on what to say to ensure you get the help you need.
Describe the problem
Clearly explain what’s wrong with your plumbing. For example, you might say, “I have a burst pipe in my kitchen, and water is leaking everywhere.” The more details you give, the better the plumber can understand the situation.
Mention Any Immediate Damage
If a plumbing issue is causing visible damage, let the plumber know. If the leak is damaging your floor or ceiling, tell the plumber. This helps the plumber understand the urgency and prepare for their repair.
Provide Location Details
Tell the plumber if the problem is a clogged sink or frozen pipes. This helps them bring the right tools and know where to go once they arrive.
Inquire about Cost
Ask for an estimated repair cost and the extra charges for emergency services. This will assist you to avoid surprises on the final cost.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Emergency Plumbing Situations
Taking care of your plumbing system lets you avoid emergencies. Here are a few easy tips to keep your pipes and drains in top condition.
- Regular inspections can capture minor issues early and save you from more significant problems later.
- Avoid pouring grease, oil, or espresso grounds into the kitchen sink.
- Use a strainer to catch meal debris and hair in sinks and shower drains.
- Insulate pipes in cold climates to save them from freezing.
- Avoid flushing wipes, paper towels, and female products, as they could cause clogs.
- Flush the water heater tank at 12 months to cast off sediment buildup.
- Only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet.
- Leave cupboard doors open at night to allow heat airflow into round pipes.
Conclusion
Taking care of your plumbing system is important to avoid emergencies. If you ever face a plumbing problem, knowing when to call a plumber can save you time and money. Remember, getting professional help is always better than letting a small issue become a big disaster.
Houston Plumbing Experts genuinely care about your needs. They understand that plumbing emergencies can be overwhelming and disruptive. That’s why they respond responsibly and provide timely solutions to fix your plumbing issue.
They provide 24/7 emergency services with just one phone call. If you need reliable and quick help with any plumbing issue, contact the experts at Houston Plumbing Expert. Give them a call and let the professionals handle your plumbing problems.
FAQs
When should I call for emergency plumbing services?
Call for emergency plumbing services when you experience severe water leaks, burst pipes, clogged drains causing backups, overflowing toilets, or sewage backups. These issues require immediate attention to prevent significant damage.
What is the difference between regular and emergency plumbing services?
Regular plumbing services handle non-urgent issues, like minor leaks or slow drains. Emergency plumbing services are for serious problems, such as burst pipes or sewage backups, that need immediate attention to prevent damage.
How can I prevent plumbing emergencies?
Prevent plumbing emergencies by conducting regular inspections, avoiding pouring grease down drains, using strainers in sinks, insulating pipes in cold climates, and only flushing toilet paper down the toilet.
What should I tell the plumber when calling for emergency services?
When calling for emergency plumbing services, describe the problem clearly, mention any visible damage, provide location details, and inquire about the estimated cost to ensure the plumber arrives prepared.
Why is an overflowing toilet considered an emergency?
An overflowing toilet is an emergency because it can quickly cause water damage and create unsanitary conditions. If plunging doesn’t help, you should immediately call a plumber to prevent further damage.
