Most homeowners take the availability of clean, running water for granted. That is, until a plumbing emergency occurs.
While many of these emergencies are the result of neglect or inappropriate do-it-yourself fixes, they can be avoided. Here are some preventative steps that you can take to keep your home plumbing safe and healthy.
Be Proactive About Maintenance
Plumbing horror stories are enough to make any homeowner shiver. Things get flushed down drains that you would never dream of putting in your mouth (from dentures to dead wildlife), pipes freeze and burst during frigid winters, toilets and appliances malfunction, creating leaks.
Getting ahead of these plumbing emergencies by performing some preventative maintenance can help you save money and minimize damage to your home or business. And having an emergency plumber near you saved in your contacts will help should you need same-day, 24/7 service.
When temperatures drop below freezing, check to make sure that any exposed water pipes in unheated areas of your home (such as basements or crawl spaces) are adequately insulated and heated to keep them from freezing. In addition, be sure to shut off the water main and sewer line whenever your home is undergoing any major plumbing service, like rerouting or installing new pipes. Also, be sure that your sump pump is functioning properly to avoid flooded basements in the event of heavy rains.
Have Your Pipes and Fixtures Checked Regularly
Many homeowners don’t think about their plumbing until something goes wrong, but staying on top of it can prevent costly emergencies. Leaking pipes and fixtures can lead to high water bills, structural damage, and health issues. These plumbing concerns can result from a variety of factors, including aging pipes that crack and break easily, loose fittings, or improper installation. The most common signs of a plumbing issue are wet or discoloured drywall, puddles in the basement or kitchen, musty smells, and high water pressure.
It’s important to have a professional check your plumbing regularly, especially during winter, when freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst. Other reasons to have your plumbing inspected are when you notice the smell of sewage in your home or yard, which could indicate a leak in the main sewer line.
Have Your Sewer Line Inspected at Least Once a Year
The sewer line carries wastewater and other household waste to the city’s main lines. It’s important to have it inspected at least once a year, because plumbing issues such as a broken line can lead to sewage backup and other nasty problems inside your home.
The most common signs of a plumbing issue with your sewer line includes gurgling drains, slow-draining bathtubs or laundry tubs, and toilets that overflow. You can also check your water bills, watch for rodent activity on or near your property, and pay attention to musty odours.
If you’re considering buying a new home, have the sewer line inspected before closing the sale.
Shut Off the Water
One of the best things that you can do when a problem occurs is to shut off the water as quickly as possible. This is especially important if you notice any signs of a problem, like gurgling drains, because these sounds can often indicate that something is wrong.
Locate the shut-off valve for the specific area where the problem is and turn it clockwise to shut off the water. Most homes have this valve located either in the basement, garage, or crawl space, but some older homes may not. If this is the case, call your local water provider to shut off the water at the main line.
Emergency Plumber Near You
Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or you’ve been in your forever home for several years, there is no doubt that plumbing problems can happen at any time. Whether you have a minor leak or a burst pipe, any plumbing issue that affects your home’s water supply should be considered an emergency.
These plumbing concerns require immediate attention from a same-day emergency plumber, who can help you avoid serious damage and expensive repair bills throughout your home’s infrastructure.
Get in touch for an upfront quote and same-day service! Call 343-305-1172 or book your emergency plumbing service online.
