How to Avoid Plumbing Emergencies

Plumbing emergencies are rarely predictable and often occur at the worst times. They can cause significant property damage and disrupt your everyday life. The best way to avoid these issues is with regular inspections from a licensed plumber.

If you are experiencing a plumbing emergency, the first thing to do is shut off your water supply. You can do this by turning off your home’s main water valve located close to the meter.

Burst Pipes

A burst pipe can cause major water damage to your home in a matter of minutes. Water can leak into walls and ceilings, soaking carpets and furniture, or collecting in basements and crawl spaces where it can lead to mould and mildew.

When pipes burst it’s important to shut off the water supply as quickly as possible. Turning off the valve will help prevent the issue from escalating while you wait for an Emergency Plumber of Elk City OK. You can also drain the remaining water by flushing toilets and running taps until all of the water has been drained.

The best way to avoid burst pipes is with regular maintenance. A professional plumber can inspect your plumbing system and ensure that all pipes are properly insulated, kept at the right temperature, and free of clogs. Keeping up with your plumbing routine can also help prevent issues like rusting and corrosion that may lead to burst pipes. Having your plumbing regularly checked and maintained can save you money in the long run.

Water Leaks

Many water leaks are caused by worn pipe joints. Whether due to age or improper DIY repair attempts, these leaks can be costly and dangerous. Leaks that go unnoticed for too long can cause serious damage to your property and lead to mold growth. If you suspect a leak, turn off your home’s water supply at the main valve (located in your basement or in a utility room) and contact a professional plumber as soon as possible.

In some cases, you may be able to temporary repair the leak yourself. For example, if you can see a drip from a faucet, use duct tape to cover it until a professional plumber arrives. In some cases, you may be able identify the source of a leak by checking your water meter. A running meter is a sure sign that there’s a leak somewhere in your home.

Sewer Backups

Sewer backups are expensive and messy, but they can also be dangerous. They can contain human waste, which is a biohazard, and they can flood your home, causing extensive and expensive damage. It is important to know what to look for so you can have a professional plumber inspect your sewer line before it becomes a problem.

Keeping your toilets, sinks and floor drains clean will prevent most sewer line backups. Avoid putting items such as cleaning wipes, diapers, sanitary products or kitchen grease down your drains. Instead, throw them in the trash or garbage can.

There are some causes of sewer backups that you can’t control, such as tree root infiltration, broken pipes from shifting soil or blockages caused by normal material deterioration in old pipes. If you notice sewage or dirty wastewater backing up into your house, it is an emergency situation and you should call an Emergency Plumber of Elk City OK immediately. Symptoms of a sewer backup include gurgling sounds from toilets and slow-moving drains.

Drain Cleaning

Drains are an important part of the plumbing system, but they can easily become blocked. If you notice that it takes longer than usual for water to drain from a sink or toilet, it may be time to call for a professional. Clogged drains can be caused by many things, from food scraps to hair and soap scum. Sometimes, they can even be the result of a broken pipe or sewer backup.

While it is possible to unblock a single drain with a plunger or chemical drain cleaners, a professional plumber will usually use a motorized drain auger or “snake” to remove more serious blockages. They can also use air or carbon dioxide-powered drain cleaners to disintegrate or dislodge the clog and clean the entire pipeline. In addition, they can use video pipe inspections to locate and diagnose issues. Drain cleaning services can also include regular preventative maintenance to keep clogs from developing. This can save you money on repairs in the future.