Do you have an emergency response plan for any plumbing problems?
Plumbing emergencies are a huge issue for thousands of homeowners across the country. Even if you rarely experience issues with your plumbing, you’re never too far from a serious problem that could require emergency attention.
Many plumbers will tell you that most emergency calls are from repeat clients who haven’t had the chance to address recurring issues in the past.
Knowing how to handle the most common plumbing emergencies will keep your family comfortable and safe. Listed below are three common plumbing emergencies you’ll want to be prepared for.
1. Clogged Drains and Toilets
A few signs indicate you have a clogged drain or toilet. The first sign is if your toilet is flushing slowly or if the water level in the toilet bowl is higher than usual.
Another sign is if there is water pooled around the base of your toilet or if your toilet is making gurgling sounds. The last sign is if you see sewage backup in your toilet or tub.
The cause of clogged drains and toilets is usually due to a build-up of hair, soap scum, or toilet paper. You can fix a blocked drain or toilet using a plunger or a plumbers Snake.
If you have a septic tank, you should not use chemicals to unclog your drain or toilet. If the problem persists, call a professional and be prepared for the plumbing costs to fix the problem.
2. Cold Shower and Low-Pressure Showerhead
A showerhead can become faulty due to a build-up of mineral deposits, which can cause a loss of water pressure. Cleaning the showerhead should fix the problem.
Soak the shower head in vinegar for a few hours or overnight, then put it back the next day.
If you have a cold shower, it is likely due to a problem with the water heater. You can try thawing the pipes with a hairdryer or using a plunger to clear the blockage. Check the thermostat to ensure it is set correctly, and do a reset if necessary.
If the shower is still losing water pressure, the pipes may have a bigger issue. A professional plumber will be able to diagnose and fix the problem quickly.
3. Leaky and Squeaky Faucet
Many plumbing emergencies can occur in the home, but one of the most common is a leaky or squeaky faucet. This can be a real nuisance, as it can cause water to drip constantly, and the noise can be very annoying.
Luckily, there are some easy ways to fix this problem. First, try to determine where the leak is coming from. If it comes from the base of the faucet, it is likely that the washer is worn out and needs to be replaced.
If the leak comes from the handle of the faucet, the problem is likely a loose screw. Tighten the screw with a screwdriver; if that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the entire handle.
Plan Ahead for Any Plumbing Emergencies
If you have a plumbing issue, you should first turn off the water to prevent further damage. Then, you can assess the situation and decide whether you can fix it yourself or need to call a professional.
Plumbing emergencies can be frustrating, but they can be less daunting if you know how to handle them.
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