Colorado Springs residents experience plumbing issues throughout the year. Some relate to the weather, while others happen due to ageing plumbing infrastructure. Fortunately, not all of these problems are emergencies. However, leaving a potential hazard too long without intervening may cause a plumbing emergency. For instance, if you do not act against hard water (common in the UK), you will eventually have to call an emergency plumber. Hard water leaves a rough residue on plumbing fixtures that can clog them or cause pinhole leaks through sewer lines.
There are several other reasons you may need to call an emergency plumber. These include the following:
No Hot Water
If your hot water suddenly runs out while showering or there is no hot water at all, you likely have a water heater problem. If this happens during winter, you must call an emergency plumber. If you do not fix the issue promptly, it could result in frozen pipes, a more extensive emergency.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are more than just an inconvenience. They are prone to bursting, which can instantly flood your home and cause structural damage. Cleaning a flooded house is expensive. If cleaned after some time, mould will develop.
Emergency plumbers have the necessary training to deal with flooding situations quickly. They will shut off and extract the primary water source when they arrive at your home. Then, they will begin the drying process immediately to prevent mould growth.
Burst Pipes Due to Other Factors
Plumbing pipes also burst because of other factors like old infrastructure or excessive pressure. If you leave a burst pipe unrepaired, your house will suffer extensive water damage. An emergency plumber can find the broken pipe and start repairing it. Moreover, they can assess the extent of water damage and give you advice on how to fix it.
Sewage Backup
Water will no longer flow freely if your home’s main sewer line is blocked or clogged. This will cause a potentially hazardous sewage backup. Never attempt to fix a sewage backup on your own. Instead, call an emergency plumber to identify the cause of the backup. The plumber will quickly clear the blockage and also disinfect the surrounding area. This will help prevent serious health risks.
You will typically notice your toilet overflowing if you have a sewage backup. Just think about all the bacteria and viruses that your toilet is exposed to. That is why it is critical to call an emergency plumber immediately.
Leaking Pipe
If you notice a leaking pipe in or around your home, it is time to call an emergency plumber. This is especially crucial if the pipe is leaking near an electrical system. The plumber can prevent the situation from becoming dangerous quickly. Also, if the leak is extensive, it can damage the structural integrity of your house.
Clogged Drain
You may not consider a clogged drain an emergency. You may even DIY your drain to get the water flowing again. However, pouring retail store drain cleaner into a drain can cause damage. A chemical-based drain cleaner can eat away your pipes, causing a bigger problem.
You may try a plunger, but this method will not work for a blockage deep within the pipes. Stubborn clogs often indicate a problem with sewer pipes. An emergency plumber can remove the blockage and save money on a more extensive repair.
Silent Leak
While a silent or hidden leak is not an immediate emergency, you must fix it as soon as you know. If you allow a pipe to leak for months, mould will grow, and your floor and walls will suffer water damage. If you notice paint peeling in room corners or warped wooden floorboards, chances are a pipe has sprung a leak inside the wall or under the floor. You may also see a sudden spike in your water bill. It is best to call an emergency plumber to fix the leak before things get worse.
Gas Leak
A gas leak demands instant action. If you suspect a gas leak in your home, you can call an emergency plumber to assess the situation. If the leak is too advanced for the plumber to fix, you must call emergency services. Natural gas is highly flammable, so never wait to call for help.
An Emergency Plumber Can Diffuse a Dangerous Situation
Plumbing emergencies are stressful and often dangerous. But, if you know when to call an emergency plumber, you can minimise the damage and danger. Professional intervention can save money and, most importantly, lives.