Any plumbing emergency in your home must be addressed quickly, as it can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and even structural damage down the line – all of which can cause extensive and expensive issues.
But before we go through the different plumbing problems you may deal with on your own property, it helps first to understand what is considered a plumbing emergency.
If you aren’t sure if your plumbing dilemma warrants a call to a 24-hour emergency plumber, here are some questions to ask:
Do you need to use the affected fixture right away? If the issue can’t wait until the morning, seek emergency help.
Will waiting cause more damage? If it’s impossible to stop the leak and gallons of water flowing into your home, don’t delay picking up the phone.
Is the plumbing emergency a threat to your safety? A gas leak, for example, can harm you and everyone living with you and must be addressed immediately.
Unfortunately, many issues meet one or all these conditions, and will have you running for your phone to call plumbing emergency services. Prepare for the worst and keep your fixtures in good working order by knowing the most common plumbing emergencies you can encounter.
6 Common Plumbing Emergencies
1. Clogged Drains
Slow drains may be annoying, but they don’t necessarily require a 24-hour plumbing service. That said, it’s an entirely different story when dealing with a severe clog. This can result in your sink or bathroom floors being unable to drain any water at all.
Clogged sinks can hinder daily activities like cooking and basic hygiene, so you might need prompt help to return to your routine. Moreover, note that any blockage in your drains can become a serious problem if your bathroom and sinks begin to overflow and create a mess inside your home.
2. Clogged Toilets
Toilets are among the most commonly used fixtures in the home, so they’re likely to run into issues like clogs. These clogs can be caused by flushing too much toilet paper or something larger than what the toilet can handle.
Clogged toilets won’t flush properly, overflow, or maintain a high water level, affecting your comfort and the running of your household.
While using a plunger can be enough for minor clogs, major or deep clogs may require plumbing emergency services. Getting help from professionals whenever you need them the most can save you from further issues like overflows and raw sewage backups.
3. Toilets That Won’t Stop Running
Running toilets are typically caused by a worn-out flapper valve, the rubber plug that holds the water until you press flush. In areas with hard water, sediment buildup may also cause toilets to run continuously.
While running toilets don’t damage your home and may still be used, they can drive your utility costs. A running toilet can use up to 200 gallons of water each day. Fortunately, hiring plumbing emergency services to have your toilet checked can save you from expensive water bills.
4. Burst Pipes
A burst pipe is among the most common plumbing emergency examples, and it can be caused by various factors. In places with colder temperatures, water freezing inside lines can cause them to crack and eventually burst. Factors like aging and corrosion can also lead to bursting.
A pipe that bursts can spill gallons of water from where the breakage happened, creating significant damage. Unfortunately, pipes can burst inside your walls or underground, hiding the leaks. So if you notice unexplained damp areas on your walls or a sudden spike in your utility bill, it’s best to call your emergency plumber as soon as possible.
5. Gas Line Leak
Gas line leaks are plumbing emergencies that must be taken seriously, as they can start fires in an instant. Inhaling gas is equally dangerous and can lead to health issues. However, what makes gas leaks more terrifying is that they can be difficult to catch.
A sulfur-like, rotten egg odor is a warning sign of a gas leak, and you must vacate the premises immediately if you notice this inside your home. Do not attempt to locate the leak yourself; instead, move to a safe place and call local professionals specializing in gas leak detection and repair.
6. Sewer System Backup
Sewer system backups are a nightmare for any homeowner. This plumbing problem can cause raw sewage to flow back through the drains, creating a mess and leaving behind an unpleasant odor. More importantly, they’re considered an emergency because they carry toxins that threaten your health and safety.
Luckily, if you know what signs to look for, you can call your emergency plumbers before the situation escalates. An experienced emergency plumber can look into your sewer line to determine the issue and perform the necessary repairs or replacements.
Bluefrog Plumbing + Drain Is Here for You 24/7
Whatever your plumbing emergency, our skilled and friendly experts at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain are here to help. We understand that a burst pipe, gas leak, or clogged toilet can happen anytime, so we stand by to lend a helping hand day or night. Ultimately, our team has years of experience tackling these common plumbing emergencies, so you can rest assured that your needs will be handled correctly the first time.
Call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain anytime for first-rate support. Whether it’s early morning, late at night, or even on weekends, we’ll be there to help!
