How To Handle Plumbing Emergencies

The usual plumbing emergencies that happen at home include leaks, bursting pipes, broken faucets, clogged drains and toilets, overflowing toilet tanks, and frozen pipes. Here are simple steps to follow when these plumbing emergencies occur.

For leaks and overflowing toilet tanks, shut off the valve nearest the bathroom. If there is none, or the valve is far from reach, shut off the main water valve instead. This is very important especially if the leak is too big and starts to soak the walls and the floor, since the water may reach an area where there is electrical wiring.

In case you have a water heating system at your place, make sure to switch it off as well when you turn off the water valve. This is very important because once you turn off the water valve, there is no free flow of water and the remaining water in the pipe gets heated to a very high temperature which can be dangerous in case some one tries to turn on a hot water faucet or shower.

After you have turned off all the required switches and water valves, it is time to call a professional plumber who can repair all the necessary pipes and fixtures. Side by side you should start cleaning the water spread on floor as it can cause harm to other kitchen or bathroom products.

If you come across clogged drains or toilets, the first thing is to turn off the faucet so that it does not over flow. You can use a plunger to unclog it but always use separate plungers for separate drains. If you are unable remove it, call a plumber to do it for you.

Many a times, you will come across a situation when you are not able to turn off the kitchen faucet. How hard you try, but the water flow is just nor stopping. In such a case all you need to do is replace the faucet with a new one. And you can easily do it without calling a plumber but you should have the right tools for it.

First, shut off the valve to the faucet, or the main water valve. Then, remove the faucet with a wrench. Replace with a new faucet, making sure it fits properly to avoid leaks and turn on the water valve and test the new faucet.

In states that experience extremely cold weather, it is possible for the pipes to freeze. The first option is to defrost the pipes with a warm hair blower. This process may be slow, but is safe since it will not damage the pipes and pipe-fittings. To avoid freezing, ensure that your home heating is warm enough, including the basement.