It has to be said. Plumbing emergencies are among the most annoying aspects any homeowner has to deal with. Whether it’s a blocked toilet, a leaking pipe, or a clogged sink, it’s almost always going to require a professional.
Fortunately, the emergency plumber Brisbane locals rely on to solve these issues is available 24/7. Since calling a plumber outside of regular office hours can be more costly, it’s essential to know which plumbing issues are classed as an emergency.
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Assess the Issue Before Panicking
Plumbing emergencies have a knack for happening at the oddest hours. While you may think it’s the universe conspiring against you, the reality is that a small issue progresses to something bigger when the plumbing is most frequently used.
Since that’s usually when everyone gets home from work or school, plumbing emergencies are more about timing than anything else. That said, should you call your trusted plumber for every small issue? Are there some issues that are more urgent than others? Keep reading to find out.
1. Seeing Signs of a Gas Leak
Most Australian homes use gas for cooking, heating, or both. That means that gas emergencies are more common than you may think. When it comes to gas, any potential leak should always be regarded as an emergency.
If you smell rotten eggs or the pilot light on your stove has gone from yellow to blue, chances are that you have a gas leak. This can be at the main line into your kitchen or at an appliance connection. In this instance, get everyone out of the house, turn off the gas (if possible), and call your 24-hour plumber immediately.
2. Blocked Toilet
Minor toilet blockages can usually be sorted out with a plunger or drain snake. By wiggling the clog loose, you may be able to flush and plunge it away. If you can see the item that’s causing the blockage, removing it may make things flow properly again.
If your blocked toilet isn’t clearing up with plunging, you may need to call your plumber as there’s always the risk of it overflowing into the bathroom. Keep in mind that leaving the issue may cause bacteria exposure which can be a health hazard. Speak to your 24 hour plumber for the best course of action for your specific situation.
3. Leaking Pipes
There are two major types of leaking pipes that you may have to deal with. The one involves a pipe burst and will see water seeping out of the pipe and into your home. Other pipe leaks are more subtle, and you’ll only notice them when water starts pooling. Both types can cause significant damage to your flooring, plumbing, and furniture.
With this issue, be sure to shut the water off and dry up as much water as quickly as possible to minimise any potential damage. Speak to your plumber about any other steps you need to take until they arrive.
4. Issues With Your Water Heater
Your water heater is an essential appliance in your home and can be costly to repair if any issues aren’t dealt with promptly. Minor issues with your water heater may start as fluctuations in the water temperature and may also include the following signs:
- Leaking pressure relief valve
- Corrosion around pipe fittings
- Rust coloured water
- Foul-smelling water
- Low water pressure
- Insufficient hot water
- Unusual noises (usually banging or rumbling)
You should call your plumber as soon as possible and not wait for the issue to progress. Once your water heater starts leaking, it’s a clear indication that there’s a serious issue brewing. Clear up any leaks and turn the heater and the water off until your plumber arrives. Ensure that there are no electrical cables in the path of the leak as this may cause an electrical shock.
5. Potential Sewer Backups
A sewer backup may not necessarily show up in your home but will rather show up somewhere on your property. This can present as blocked drains, foul smells, and gurgling noises in the pipes. Any instances where raw sewage is flowing into the home or close to the area where your kids or pets walk will require attention from your emergency plumber.
Since spills can cause bacteria and harmful pathogens, it’s essential to clean the area after the issue has been repaired. Speak to your plumber about the best chemicals and cleaning agents to use to clean the drains, pipes, and surrounding areas.
Final Thoughts
Plumbing emergencies that involve water flowing out of places and into your home can be harmful to your health and cause severe damage to your flooring and furnishings. These issues should always be discussed with your plumber.
They will advise you whether the issue warrants a call out. Be sure to know where your gas, water, and power can be turned off should this become necessary. It’s also essential to take care of any minor plumbing issues as this will prevent them from becoming major problems in the middle of the night. You’ll save yourself a lot of time and aggravation.