What to Do in a Plumbing Crisis
Quickly contacting a plumber is key to reducing water damage.
At one point or another, almost every homeowner has encountered a plumbing crisis in their home. Such emergencies can cause panic and result in massive destruction of property. However, basic knowledge of plumbing issues can help homeowners control the issue or buy time to call a
professional plumber. A homeowner can take some clear steps during a plumbing emergency.
Although plumbing issues can quickly become crises, not all problems demand prompt attention. To characterize a plumbing issue as a crisis, ask these questions:
Does the issue have the potential to cause significant property damage?
Does the plumbing issue pose a health risk?
Will the problem disrupt daily life?
For instance, pipe bursts and major leaks from faucets and fixtures are plumbing crises because water can quickly flood a home and cause extensive damage. Likewise, sewage leaks and backups can result in serious health issues due to contamination. These are identified as urgent and need quick resolution.
Once homeowners come across a plumbing emergency, it’s time to act. Below are the things to do in a plumbing crisis:
Turn off the water source
The first step during a plumbing crisis, especially one from a major leak and pipe bust, is to turn off the water supply from the source. Doing this prevents further water damage.
Contact a professional plumber
Many homeowners forget to call a plumber amid a plumbing crisis. However, quickly contacting a plumber is key to reducing water damage. Since most plumbers offer emergency services, they can help the homeowner examine the situation via phone and offer valuable tips before professional help arrives.
Power down the water heater
Another critical step in managing a plumbing crisis is turning off the water heater. It prevents unit damage caused by overheating. For gas-powered heaters, one should first turn off the gas.
Evaluate electrical appliances
During a plumbing crisis, homeowners can turn off electrical devices and outlets closest to the issue. A crisis that results in flooding poses a risk of short circuits and electrocution if the water gets to a source of electricity.
Drain the pipes
Some fixtures that hold water can continue leaking even after turning off the water supply. It’s a good idea to open faucets, fixtures, outdoor drains, and hoses. This allows the water in the pipes to drain out, reduce leakages, and release any built-up pressure in the plumbing system.
Control plumbing emergencies
Dealing with a plumbing crisis can be a real headache. However, homeowners can effectively avoid or reduce water damage with these tips. It is best to contact a local plumber to examine the plumbing system to prevent the issue from getting out of hand.
If you need a licensed, bonded, insured plumber for your Phoenix area leak or your next plumbing project, call MNS Plumbing today at 602-362-4524.
