Why Do You Need Emergency Plumbing Services?
Does your home need emergency plumbing services? Take a look at the common plumbing problems that require immediate attention — 24 hours a day.
A Pipe Bursts
Ideally, you would hire a plumber to repair a pipe before it bursts. Most about-to-burst pipes have red flag signs. These may include:
- Corrosion. Red/brown-colored water, odd tastes, and visible signs of rust on exposed pipes point to corrosion. If left untreated, corrosion can cause a pipe to crack or burst.
- Leaks. A smaller-sized leak could grow and cause major damage without a professional repair.
- Clogs. While a clog won't always cause a pipe to burst, it can cause the interior water pressure to increase. The strain of increased water pressure can cause the pipe to break or burst.
- Main sewer line backups. Tree roots that invade underground exterior pipes can cause the main water lines to burst. Clogs or backups in multiple fixtures at the same time (such as the toilet, sink, and tub) or backups from one fixture into another signal this issue.
If a pipe bursts, turn off the main water shut-off valve to prevent damage to your home or belongings and contact a 24-hour emergency plumbing services contractor as soon as possible.
The Water Is Cold
When your normally hot shower is cold, even though you let the water warm-up for a few minutes, you should:
- Try another faucet. Check the other fixtures to make sure the cold water issue isn't isolated to one area. If there's no hot water anywhere in your home, it's likely the water heater is at fault.
- Check the hot water heater. Is there an obvious issue with the hot water heater? While you should leave a full inspection to the professional, you can look for clear signs of a leak such as a puddle on the ground.
- Talk to your household members. If you have a tank-style water heater, a long shower or a load of laundry on the hot cycle can turn your shower from warm to cold.
- Look at the water heater's thermostat. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit is the highest temperature setting to avoid burns. If the temperature is dramatically lower than this range, the water may feel cool.
If your hot water has a leak or smells like gas, you need an emergency plumbing repair. The contractor will evaluate the issue and recommend a repair or replacement.