plumbing emergencies

Top 5 Residential Plumbing Emergencies

By Bryan | January 21, 2021

As a homeowner, you would know the different kinds of plumbing concerns you have to face on an ongoing basis. Amongst these, the most common emergency plumbing situations include damaged pipes, clogged drains, and gas leaks. Many emergency plumbers in San Jose claim that the number one reason for defective pipes and stubborn obstructions is plumbing negligence.

Interestingly, many people give their cars more value than their home. How? They remember to get their cars serviced once a year but don’t do the same when it comes to plumbing systems. You contact a professional plumber when you encounter a plumbing emergency, by which time it is too late, and the damage to your home has been done.

You must frequently schedule preventive maintenance for your home’s plumbing system. Such maintenance services ensure that your plumbing fixtures, pipes, and drains remain in working condition for long. Moreover, they allow you to instantly identify problems and have them repaired before they grow into expensive plumbing emergencies.

Suppose you face an emergency plumbing situation, there are some steps that you can take to lessen the damage to the minimum and thereby save on repair costs.

  1. Burst Pipes

While you wait for the emergency plumber to arrive, you must restrict the flow of water from the hole. For this, you must know the position of the main shut-off valve in your house. Close the main shut off valve to cease the supply of water to the fixtures. Next, turn on the taps for cold water to quickly drain out the trapped water and steam from the pipes. Once you have damage controlled the situation, you can contact the plumber for repair or replacement of the burst pipe.

  1. Frozen Pipes

Water tends to freeze in pipes during the cold months. Frozen water leads to expansion and can even cause the bursting of pipes. If you feel that water in your pipes has started freezing, close the main shutoff valve. In case the pipe has not split yet, use hot water bottles for thawing. Do this at the end of the pipe closest to the tap. Avoid the use of a naked flame to thaw pipes since that can cause thermal water expansion and burst pipes. Remember to insulate your pipes properly for protection in the cold weather.

  1. Blocked Drains and Toilets

Use a plumber’s snake or a plunger to eliminate the obstruction. If that does not work, call for professional drain cleaning in San Jose.

  1. Leaky Plumbing Fixtures and Appliances

Identify the source of the leak. Stop the water supply to the leaky fixture. If your water heater is leaking, it is most likely due to a loose drain valve. Get in touch with your plumber for effective solutions and water heater repair in San Jose.

  1. Gas Leaks

If you smell gas, quickly leave the building. It is suggested that you avoid DIY repair for gas leaks since they are deadly in nature. Allow the professionals to take the problem into their hands. If you’d like to, you can turn off the gas meter at the control valve under expert guidance.

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About Bryan

Hi, I am Bryan, a seasoned plumbing expert with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Renowned for my meticulous attention to detail and exceptional problem-solving skills, I have successfully and effectively handled numerous plumbing issues, ensuring top-quality service and customer satisfaction with every project I take on!