What Counts as a Plumbing Emergency? A Guide to After-Hours Plumbing Issues
The last thing any homeowner, renter or commercial property owner ever wants is for a plumbing emergency to strike. Often, these happen at the worst and most inconvenient times, forcing you to think on your feet as to how to resolve it. It's vital you tackle it head on as a plumbing emergency can cause health, safety and risk property damage.
The big question often is " can this problem wait until office hours or do I need to call an emergency plumber ?" This is a very valid question and one that is worth asking to avoid paying out for an expensive emergency plumber needlessly.
In this article, we will tell you all you need to know when it comes to identifying whether an issue is an emergency or not.
Problems That Constitute A Plumbing Emergency
In some circumstances, the need for an emergency plumber is imperative. Here are some of the tell-tale signs you can look out for.
- Burst Pipes
Burst pipes rank up there as one of the top reasons people call the emergency plumber. They can quickly lead to significant damage as the water floods your property, ruining flooring, warping wood and causing mould to set in. This problem cannot wait: call the emergency plumber immediately and get it seen to.
- Sewage Overflow
Sometimes blockages in external drains and sewer lines can cause raw sewage to backflow into your home. This problem is not just smelly and unpleasant, it causes a risk to health as sewage contains nasty pathogens and bacteria. The water itself can also cause property damage.
- Significant Water Leaks
Uncontrolled water leaks can quickly cause great damage to your property, whether they are from pipes, appliances, hoses or other sources. If you have a significant leak that cannot be contained by buckets or is quickly worsening, it's time to call in the emergency plumber. They will be able to shut off water at the source, preventing further damage.
- Drain Blockages
Regardless of the source of a blocked pipe, blockages can cause havoc to your plumbing systems. These prevent water from flowing leading to a build up of water, slow drainage and sewage backflows. If you cannot clear them yourself, completely blocked drains or overflowing toilets are an emergency and you need to take action. Your local emergency plumber will have the tools and expertise to rectify this.
- No Hot Water
Breaks in your hot water systems can be a real headache, stopping you from bathing, washing dishes and maintaining sanitation. Having no hot water is a sure-fire sign you need to hire an emergency plumber. Using their expertise and tools, they will be able to diagnose and fix the problem, whether it is the result of broken heating elements, a burst pipe, a faulty thermostat or something else.
- Gas Leaks
Can you smell gas and you are unsure of the cause/source? Don't leave it as gas buildup is not only toxic for your health, it can constitute an explosion risk if not addressed by a professional. If you suspect any of your appliances or gas lines have a leak, take immediate action and call in the emergency gas plumber.
Signs Of A Plumbing Emergency
Sometimes it may not be obvious that you are having a plumbing emergency. Watch out for these signs that it is time to call in the emergency plumber:
- Severe Water Leakage
Gushing water from pipes and appliances indicates that there may be a broken pipe, ruptured pipe joints or loose valves. All of these constitute a plumbing emergency and will only become more severe with time. Prevent further damage to your property and plumbing system by getting help immediately.
- Water Pools In The Backyard Or On The Floor
Standing water where it shouldn't be is a major sign of a drain or pipe blockage. If sinks, toilets, baths or other fixtures fail to drain, it's time to call in the emergency plumber.
- Unpleasant Odours
Natural gas has a distinctive rotten egg smell. If you notice this and you have gas appliances, don't hesitate to call an emergency plumber. In addition to being toxic, build ups of natural gas can cause explosions and fires, putting you and your whole family at risk.
- Condensation Or Moisture On The Walls, Ceilings, or Floors
Have you noticed that your wall, ceiling or floor is wet to the touch? Do you have a mould problem that you cannot get rid of despite trying lots of different solutions? Both of these are signs of leaks that are hidden away where you cannot see. Have no fear, your emergency plumber can utilise thermal imaging devices to identify the problem so it can be resolved.
- Strange Sounds From Plumbing Pipes
Is your plumbing more noisy than usual? Loud rumbling inside your pipes, thumping sounds from your water lines and gurgling from drains can all be signs of leaks, blockages and bursts. By calling your emergency plumber, you can ensure you get to the source of the issue before further damage occurs.
Tips On When To Call An Emergency Plumber
Are you questioning whether you need an emergency plumber or whether you can wait for a regular plumber? Here's some questions you should ask yourself to find an answer:
- Do you have a serious leak or gushing water?
- Is the problem causing significant damage to your property?
- Is your sewage backed up or overflowing?
- Is the issue creating a serious risk to your safety and health?
- Are you without hot water?
- Is the issue rapidly escalating?
If you answer 'Yes' to the above, it's time to call the emergency plumber.
Need An Emergency Plumber?
Are you having a plumbing emergency? Mainline Plumbing and Civil can help. We have the expertise and specialist tools to help you locate and rectify both water plumbing-related problems and gas leaks. We pride ourselves on providing fast, friendly and professional service to all customers facing plumbing emergencies. So, if you live in Dubbo or the Orana region, get in touch online or call 0423 627 149.
Alternatively, we provide general plumbing work; installations and renovations ; clearing of blocked drains; gas, electric and solar hot water systems; and gasfitting to residential, commercial and civil clients. Get in touch today to find out more.
