When Should You Call an Emergency Plumber?
Not every plumbing problem becomes an emergency. Minor issues, including partially clogged drains or dripping faucets, could be left alone until regular business hours. Clogged toilets or small leaks might be put off until morning.
Burst or broken pipes typically require immediate action. If a problem is causing damage to walls, furniture, or fixtures, get it handled as soon as possible. Also, call for 24-hour plumbing assistance if you see large amounts of water or notice water backing up or overflowing where it shouldn’t. Getting no water at all when you turn on your faucets also counts as an emergency plumbing problem.
In some cases, emergency plumbing assistance helps prevent future issues. During a freeze, a plumber can thaw pipes safely to reduce the risk of cracks or bursting.
In addition to the pipes bringing fresh water to fixtures and appliances throughout your home, your sewer pipes could also cause an emergency. Clogged lines and sewage backup require immediate intervention, no matter what time of day they occur.
Fast action could save you money. Tackling frozen pipes before they burst reduces damage. Small leaks can quickly turn to larger, more expensive ones. Water leaks also impact your water bill and waste natural resources. Replacing a broken water heater prevents a sudden catastrophic leak. Preventative maintenance could help reduce the risk of major plumbing emergencies.
Here are some signs you might need an emergency plumber:
- Large visible water leaks
- Burst or damaged pipes
- A sudden decrease in water pressure
- Sewage backup
A plumber can also handle gas lines. Strange smells or flames that burn yellow instead of blue are signs of a potential gas leak. Because gas leaks can turn deadly, these issues require prompt action.
