Running toilets, leaking pipes, clogged sinks, sewer backups—which of these situations is considered a plumbing emergency? How much should you worry when you see water where it shouldn't be or when your appliances, toilets, or showers aren't running right?
Understanding common plumbing issues, including knowing when to call a plumber for help, is essential knowledge for homeowners.
If your Austin home is experiencing problems, find out whether it classifies as an emergency and whether you need to call a plumber for help as soon as possible.
Flooding Risks
If your home is flooding or there is a risk of a flood, this constitutes a plumbing emergency. Water damage emergencies affect 14,000 people each day. The last thing you want as a homeowner is to deal with water damage, which is why it's so important to act fast when your home is at risk.
Common reasons for flooding due to plumbing issues include:
- Leaks
- Malfunctioning appliances
- Burst pipes
- Shut off valve failure
If your home is filling with water, or you're worried about a leak, call an emergency plumber as soon as possible. In the future, understanding the signs of a water leak can help you prevent serious damage to your home.
Plumbers vs. Water Restoration Companies
Many homeowners wonder if plumbers can fix water damage due to flooding. The answer is that it depends on how much water there is and how much time has passed.
For severe cases of water damage, you may also need the help of a water restoration company.
Burst Pipes
Burst pipes are often a homeowner's worst nightmare and another reason to call a plumber ASAP. Although burst pipes are more common in colder weather when the water freezes and expands, other factors can also cause this to happen.
Metal pipes can corrode, which not only weakens the pipe but also affects how much water pressure it can withstand. Minerals in the water and water acidity can also cause corrosion.
If a pipe is badly clogged, it can burst. Pipes can get clogged for many reasons, such as corrosion, buildup, and more.
Burst pipes can quickly flood the house, making this one of the more serious plumbing emergencies you might face.
Water Heater Leaks
A puddle under your water heater is never a good sign, and it can indicate a major issue. You might see water dripping from the pipes around the water heater or even hear a dripping sound.
When you hire a plumber, they might be able to repair your water heater, but it's also possible you need a new one. Rusty water heaters or those that are older than ten years likely need replacement.
If it seems like the puddle around your water heater might cause water damage and get worse if left alone, you should call a plumber for help.
Sewer Line Back-Up
When a sewer line backs up, it presents a health hazard. This is one plumbing emergency you can't afford to ignore. The last thing you want is raw sewage entering your home that can make you and your family sick.
A backed-up sewer can also prevent you from using water, meaning you can't cook or shower.
Signs of a sewer backup include gurgling toilets, various clogged drains, and an odor coming from your drains.
If you notice any of these signs, make sure to hire a plumber sooner rather than later.
You Don't Have Water
If you go to turn on the tap and no water comes out, you might feel like panicking. Not having water can indicate a problem with the water main.
First, make sure it's not just one area of your home. If your entire home doesn't have water, ask your neighbors if they're also having trouble. It could indicate a municipal supply problem.
The problem could also lie with your emergency shut-off valve. If you're not sure how to check your water main or you can't find the source of the problem, call a plumber for help.
No Hot Water
No one wants to hop into the shower only to realize that the water is freezing cold. It's an unwelcome surprise and one that can indicate other problems.
For instance, it might be an issue with your water heater or even a burst pipe.
Whether it's an emergency or not depends on the source of the problem and how dependent you are on having hot water.
Non-Emergency Plumbing Problems
Certain plumbing issues may not seem like a big deal at first, like a dripping faucet, but these are signs you could face problems in the future. For instance, a leaky faucet can lead to rust, mold, and increased water bills.
Even small leaks can waste 10,000 gallons of water each year. However, it's important to consider the scale of the leak in order to determine how severe it is. A dripping faucet can probably wait until the next business day, while sudden water stains on your walls or ceiling can indicate an emergency.
Another common plumbing issue homeowners face includes clogged drains. Slow-running drains aren't usually an emergency and can often wait until the next business day to get fixed. You can also fix many of these issues on your own, or at least patch up the situation until a plumber can get to your home.
Is It an Emergency?
Plumbing emergencies aren't always so straightforward. Leaks can be small, or they might cause severe water damage to your floors and walls.
Ask yourself how severe the issue is by assessing whether there is a risk for flooding or water damage. Other emergency factors include those that pose health risks, such as a sewer backup or broken sump pump.
Do You Have a Plumbing Emergency?
Plumbing issues can quickly escalate if ignored, which is why you need to act fast if you notice one of these plumbing emergencies. Pick up the phone and call an emergency plumber right away.
If you ever encounter a plumbing emergency, contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Austin. Get a job estimate today, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
