Even when you take meticulous care of your plumbing by not exposing to unnecessary dangers, an emergency can happen at the drop of a hat! And if you want to mitigate the degree of water damage that your house could acquire, it is best to know what steps to take rather than scrambling about when your home is at risk of flood damage. Take note that some plumbing emergencies can easily be avoided by keeping a keen eye and ear out for any unusual happenings with your plumbing. Nevertheless, if a plumbing emergency does come about by surprise, read on for the typical causes and the steps to take immediately.
Main reasons for a plumbing emergency
An overflowing toilet: When you find that one of your toilets is overflowing, the first thing to do is shut off the water valve that the toilet is connected to. This shut-off valve is situated at the back of your toilet. Stopping the water flow will buy you some time before your emergency plumber comes to check out the issue.
Your drains are blocked: Clogged drains may seem like a minor problem, but once they are blocked, it means water will not flow down your pipes. Not only can this lead to water damage in your home but your property is also at risk of bacteria, pathogens and mould.
Your water heater is malfunctioning: Water heater malfunctions can manifest in an array of ways. From cracks in the tank that cause leaks to lack of hot water, it is imperative to have an emergency plumber investigate the cause of the issues and remedy it.
Steps to take when facing a plumbing emergency
- Firstly, drop everything and shut off the main water. Your main water valve is typically located outside the home. However, if you live in an apartment, it is judicious to enquire from the property manager where this valve is located in your home.
- Secondly, turn on all the taps in your home. By running all the faucets, you accelerate drainage of water from the plumbing. This measure is especially critical if you have a burst pipe and you do not know the source of the leaking water.
- Thirdly, the chances of water damage in your home dramatically increase when the water is left stagnant in your home. Therefore, it is imperative to grab a mop and several towels to help you soak up as much moisture as possible.
For more information, contact your local emergency plumbers today.
