What to Do During a Plumbing Emergency
As a homeowner, you’re going to run into some challenging situations with your plumbing — it happens to everyone. Understanding the steps and resources you need to deal with each emergency will give you peace of mind knowing you have it handled. Here is a guide for you to learn more about what you can do during a plumbing emergency in your home!
Stay Calm
The best thing you can do during a plumbing emergency in your home is to remain calm and ensure the whole family is prepared. It can be overwhelming when an emergency happens, but it is important to stay calm so you can minimize as much damage as possible. Knowing where your shutoff valves are, having a handful of towels at your immediate disposal and finding your emergency plumber beforehand are some things that will help keep you calm during plumbing emergencies.
Shut Off Your Water Supply
During any plumbing emergency, it’s always a good idea to shut off your water supply. Many fixtures have specific supply valves that allow you to cut water flow to that feature, which is especially helpful for burst pipes. If your fixture doesn’t have one, you should cut off your home’s water supply, which you can find near your water meter along your property’s boundary line.
In these situations, you should consider turning off the power and gas to your water heater to prevent it from bursting or overheating. Don’t forget to open your indoor and outdoor spigots, faucets and drains to release all the remaining water.
Assess the Damage
Before you call a plumber, it’s best to evaluate the entire plumbing emergency. Look for damage to electrical outlets and appliances and cut the power to the main circuit breaker if necessary. If you can, locate the origin of the accident and use all your senses to look for water damage throughout your home. Throughout your search, keep an eye out for the following signs of water damage:
- Mold
- Peeling paint
- Warped flooring
- Dampness
- Musty smell
The more details you can give your emergency plumber, the better. This way, they’ll provide you with an accurate estimate and arrive with the right tools to help.
Repair Any Minor Leaks
Leaking pipes can lead to thousands of dollars in structural damages, causing water stains, mold and destruction to your carpets, ceilings, walls, and flooring. If you notice any signs of a leak, it’s essential to address the plumbing emergency immediately to prevent further damage.
With complicated issues like a clogged drain, it’s wise to avoid quick-fix solutions like chemical openers, which could cause additional damage to your pipes. Calling in a plumber is the safest strategy, as they’re equipped with the knowledge and tools to understand and address the extent of your emergency plumbing issues completely.
Soak Up Excess Water
Get ahead of the game and start soaking up the water in your home as soon as possible. You can use towels, sponges, mops, and buckets to start clearing your home, making it easier for your plumber to get to the root of the problem. Working quickly to absorb the water will minimize the chances of severe structural damage and mold growth.
Call a Plumber
Whether you’re experiencing a leaky ceiling or a dripping faucet, you deserve to have a reliable plumbing team by your side. At Ranck Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, we take pride in solving your emergency plumbing issues, no matter the time.
If you are experiencing a plumbing emergency or find yourself facing a plumbing emergency in the future, contact us online or call our professionals at 717-397-2577 so we can send someone to your home as soon as possible.