Plumbing emergencies can occur at any time. You could have a burst pipe, a backed-up toilet, a leaking faucet, or an overflowing gutter. These can cause extensive damage to your home and lead to injuries and health risks. It is important to stay focused and think straight when faced with a plumbing emergency. A plumber in Northern Beaches provides tips on what to do when you have a plumbing emergency at home:
Stay Calm
Staying calm can be extremely tough when you have a plumbing emergency at home. But you must be calm to properly identify the issue, assess the damage, and take preventive steps. Panicking during a plumbing emergency will only worsen the situation.
Shut Off Water Supply
The next thing to do is to shut off the water supply. Whether you have a leak in your faucet, pipe, or toilet, shutting off the valve will prevent extra water from causing further damage. If you can identify the source of the leak, then find a shutoff valve close to the source. You can switch off the main water supply if you cannot find the shutoff valve.
Empty the Pipes
Once you have shut off the water supply to your home, open your fixtures and drains to allow any residual water to flow out. Ensure you open the outdoor faucets and hoses as well to remove excess water.
Assess the Damage
Once you shut off the water, try to find the origin of the leak if you have not found it already. Look for water damage in the house, bubbling or peeling paint, mold and mildew, or warped flooring. See if you notice a damp, musty smell in any room. All these indicators can lead you to the source of the problem. Once you have identified the source, try to assess the damage around the area.
Turn Off Electricity
Flooding and excessive water in the home can pose a risk of electrocution. If possible, switch off the electric supply to the home. This way, you can avoid any risk of being electrocuted when checking your electrical appliances.
Turn Off Water Heater
If you cannot turn off the electric supply, at least turn off your water heater. This may not be required if it is a minor emergency. But if it is a major one or you are not sure how bad the situation is, turn off the water heater to prevent damage to the appliance. The heater can overheat or burst if the water is shut off and it is still on. Also, turn off the gas if your water heater is gas-powered.
Clean the Excess Water
If it is safe to be near the water, try to wipe off the excess water. This will help reduce the damage to your home and furniture and prevent slips and falls. Clearing the water will also make it easy for the plumber to work. You can use mops, sponges, cloths, and buckets to clear the water. If you identify a leaking pipe, you can also stuff towels and other fabric around it to prevent further leaks. While cleaning up the water, make a note of all the areas that you suspect could be the cause of the leak. You can inform the plumber about these potential problem areas when they visit your home. Keep your doors and windows open to allow air circulation if your electricity is off. If it is safe to switch on fans, run them as well. This will prevent mold growth and future water damage.
Check Electrical Outlets and Appliances
If you have standing water, ensure it is not near any electrical outlets or appliances. Standing water near electrical appliances and outlets can pose a risk of shocks. Don’t enter the flooded area if you think the water is electrically charged. You may be asked to evacuate for safety reasons if there is an electrical problem. If it is safe to get into the water, you can check your appliances to ensure they are all off and not damaged.
Call a Professional Plumber
Once you have assessed the damage and taken the initial safety precautions, contact a professional plumber. They offer emergency plumbing services and can help you solve your plumbing issues. They will diagnose the problem, find the source of the leak, and repair the issue.
Plumbing emergencies can be scary and stressful. However, staying calm and following the steps mentioned above can help prevent extensive damage to your home and ensure everyone’s safety.
