Plumbing emergencies can happen to anyone; when they do, it’s essential to know how to handle them. In this blog post, we will discuss the top 5 plumbing emergencies and what you can do to fix them. Keep in mind that some of these emergencies may require the help of a professional plumber, so if you are not comfortable trying to fix them yourself, please don’t hesitate to call one!
A Clogged Toilet
A clogged toilet is perhaps the single most common and distressing plumbing problem. Trying to flush the toilet just makes the water rise higher, threatening to overflow and make the issue much worse. Several things can cause toilets to clog. This includes flushing too much toilet paper or feminine hygiene products, excess waste, or introducing foreign objects (like a child’s toy) into the system. Less common but serious causes are mineral build-up, damaged pipes, or roots growing into the pipes.
What To Do
First of all, do not keep trying to flush the toilet, as an overflow and flood will make the problem worse. Try using a plunger to unblock the clog. If that doesn’t work, you may need a longer, more flexible augur to break up the blockage. If you still have no luck, it’s probably a more severe problem. That means it’s time to call a professional plumbing service.
A Clogged Sink
Like toilets, sinks can easily become clogged. A slow drain can be annoying, but if it stops up entirely, it requires immediate attention. As with toilets, the most common reason is introducing elements to the sink drain that don’t belong there. These elements include grease, coffee grounds, hair, soap scum, or food. Another culprit might be a broken garbage disposal if it is the kitchen sink.
What To Do
Also, as with toilets, the first thing you should try is plunging the clog. Clear away any visible debris before you do this. Do not use the plunger you use on the toilet to unclog the sink. If that doesn’t work, try an augur. If that also does not work, try pouring a mixture of vinegar and baking soda down the drain. Never resort to a chemical cleaner as this can damage your pipes. If none of these options worked, it’s time to call the professionals.
Leaky Fixtures
The dripping of a water leak anywhere, be it a sink, shower, or toilet, is annoying. However, leaks can be much worse than they first appear. Apart from apparent water damage, leaking fixtures can also lead to rusting pipes and mold growth, which pose serious health hazards. On top of that, any leak will run up your water bill. There are many possible causes for water leaks, including cracked pipes, faulty seals, faulty joints, corroded pipes, or temperature fluctuations.
What To Do
The solution to a leaking fixture depends on its cause. If the leak is due to cracks, you might be able to apply a temporary solution by taping over it or applying a rubber patch. If the leak comes from a joint, try tightening the joint with a wrench. Be advised that tightening one joint may loosen another. If your pipes are cracked or corroded, you will need to replace them, a job for professional plumbers.
Burst Pipes
Burst or broken pipes are a dreadful situation. A burst pipe can release 100 gallons of water in 8 hours, causing massive water damage. You may hear a loud “popping” noise if one of your pipes breaks, but most homeowners do not detect it until it is too late. The most common reason for burst pipes is water freezing inside the pipes during winter, but it also happens to pipes that are very old or corroded. Other causes could be a buildup of water pressure, tree roots entering the pipe, or mineral build-up.
What To Do
The best way to avoid a burst pipe is to inspect your pipes for damage and wear and tear regularly. If you have a burst pipe, shut off your water supply immediately to limit the damage. Remove any furniture and other belongings from the affected area. Unfortunately, trying to fix a broken pipe yourself is dangerous and could cause more damage to your home. You must call a professional plumbing service right away.
No Hot Water
Most people don’t enjoy cold showers, but that’s what you have to put up with if there is a problem with your water heater. While it may be an electrical issue or a plumbing leak, the most likely cause is your water heater. Your water heater may be leaking, have a build-up of sludge, or have a broken heating mechanism or dip tube. If your water heater leaks, it can also cause water damage, rust, and mold. These possibilities are all the more reasons to get your water heater fixed as soon as possible.
What To Do
If there is no leak in your water heater and you only have discolored or odd-smelling water, flushing the tank may fix the issue. However, if you have other problems, you need to call a professional plumbing company. They may be able to fix your problem, or you may need to replace your water heater entirely. Either way, a lack of hot water is probably not an issue you can fix yourself.
For Any Emergency, Call The North Peachtree Plumbing Company
If you are confronted with any of these problems, don’t panic! The North Peachtree Plumbing Company is here to help. We have over 20 years of plumbing experience in the Atlanta area. Our company is licensed, bonded, and insured for your safety. With veteran plumbers offering service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, at affordable rates, there’s no one better than the North Peachtree Plumbing Company.
