Dealing with Common Plumbing Emergencies
“Don’t panic” is always the first piece of advice to follow and should be kept in mind when dealing with a plumbing emergency.
When things go wrong with the plumbing, they can go spectacularly wrong. “Don’t panic” is always the first piece of advice to follow and should be kept in mind when dealing with a plumbing emergency.
Here are a few other critical factors to bear in mind.
Shut off the water supply
Every home has a main valve that controls the water flowing into the house. Before damage can be assessed or leaks identified, the homeowners must turn off the water supply valve first. Once the flow has stopped, the damage can be more efficiently dealt with.
Turn off water heaters
If the water heater is completely drained of water after the supply line is closed, the heater runs the risk of overheating and being badly damaged. Always ensure that the water heater is turned off directly after the supply.
Turn off gas
If an event like a natural disaster has damaged multiple pipes in the house, then there’s a chance that the gas pipes may also be affected. Gas should be turned off as a precaution to prevent any poisonous leaks or fire risk.
Protect lives and valuables
If a plumbing problem is severe and parts of the building are in danger, evacuate everyone to safety. Valuables are next. If any are at risk of water damage, move valuables before the situation worsens if it’s safe to do so.
Drain water
If a pipe has burst, then shutting off the water supply won’t impact the water still left in the pipes. Be sure to open all available faucets to drain any remaining water in the pipes. As a plumber will often need to work with pipes once dry, draining as much water as possible before contacting one is advisable.
Clean surfaces
If a toilet or drain has overflowed onto the floor, the area can be at risk of contamination. Once the water supply is shut off, mop up as much liquid as possible. Wash hands thoroughly after doing so.
Catch leaks
To prevent further water damage, place buckets, pots, and bowls under leaks to collect any remaining water in the plumbing system.
Call the experts
In a plumbing emergency, DIY solutions are no longer an option. Time is essential when preventing further damage, so a plumber should be contacted as soon as an emergency occurs. Be sure to have a reliable plumber’s number available for emergencies. When contacting the plumber, be sure to describe the particulars of the emergency:
Where the problem was first noticed
When it started happening
The damage of the emergency so far
Any steps you’ve taken to resolve the issue
A professional plumber should be able to help with all emergencies and restore the plumbing system.
Just in Case Mechanical offers residential and commercial plumbing, sewer, water softener, electrical, lighting, and HVAC services Lancaster County. Call us today at (717)696-1511.
