Many plumbing problems don’t require emergency services. If you can turn off the water to the fixture, contain the leak, or wait until business hours, it’s okay to delay your call.
However, there are certain situations that cannot wait. Here are some of the most common: water line breaks, gas leaks, and burst pipes.
Leaks
Leaks are among the most common emergency plumbing near me and can cause major damage to your home if left unattended. Emergency plumbers are trained to quickly find and repair any leaks in your home, minimizing the impact of water damage. Some signs of a leak include visible water spots, increased water bills, strange noises coming from your pipes, or a musty smell.
If you suspect a leak, shut off your main water valve and open drains and exterior spigots to reduce the amount of water flowing through your pipes. This will give you a chance to assess the damage and call an emergency plumber.
It’s also a good idea to have a bucket or jug nearby in case of a leaky toilet, so you can collect the water and reduce flooding. A bucket can help keep the water from staining carpets, furniture, or floors. Leaks in hidden places like under sinks or behind walls are harder to notice and may require an inspection by a professional.
Sewer Backups
Sewer lines are where all of the wastewater from your home goes, connecting to a septic tank or the municipal sewer system. Any clogs or damage to this line can cause sewage backups, which are very messy and unsanitary. Raw sewage contains harmful bacteria and viruses that can make you sick if you come into direct contact with it. Additionally, sewage can cause extensive and expensive water damage to your property. If you experience a sewer backup, turn off the electricity in the area and remove any items that cannot be cleaned or disinfected.
The best way to avoid a sewage backup is with regular plumbing maintenance, periodic inspections, and keeping fats, oils, and other debris away from drains. However, some problems with the municipal sewer system are out of your control. In these cases, you should save all receipts for any items you need to replace and work with your insurance company to file a claim.
Water Heater Repairs
A broken water heater is a plumbing emergency that affects your ability to wash clothes, cook meals and take showers. An emergency plumber can address the problem quickly to restore your access to hot water.
Frozen pipes can also require an emergency plumber to avoid costly property damage and flooding. During the winter, Lewisville homeowners should know how to shut off their water main and should inspect their home’s pipes for signs of freezing or bursts.
The best way to prepare for a plumbing crisis is to plan ahead. Have the number of a trusted emergency plumber handy and understand when to call them. Before calling, research plumbers in your area to learn about their service options, costs and customer satisfaction levels. Contact multiple plumbers to compare services and prices, and read reviews and testimonials. Be sure to ask each plumber about their availability in your area and whether they charge a minimum call fee for off-hours services.
Burst Pipes
Pipes freeze and burst more often than you might think, especially during long freezing winters. When a pipe bursts, it can cause massive water damage to your home and belongings in a matter of minutes.
While actual pipe repairs are best left to a professional plumber, you can take several steps to minimize the damage and protect your belongings until they arrive. First, shut off your water supply. You can do this by turning off the main valve, usually located at your water meter or where the main line enters your home. Next, remove as much standing water as possible. Use buckets, mops, and towels to do this. Finally, dry out the affected area as quickly as possible to prevent mold and mildew build-up.
Also, be sure to move any furniture or other valuables away from the area. This will make it easier for your emergency plumber to access the problem area and perform necessary repairs.
