How To Handle A Plumbing Emergency

Plumbing emergencies can catch us off guard and quickly turn into a disaster if they are not dealt with promptly. It is important to know how to deal with them quickly and efficiently in order to minimize the damage. Here are the essential things everyone should know in dealing with a plumbing emergency.

Turn Off The Water: The first thing to do is to shut off the water at the source of the problem. Depending on the problem, this may require shutting off the water off at a particular location or the main water valve for the whole house. The main water valve is usually located near the water meter. Local shutoff valves are usually underneath or behind appliances, sinks, and toilets. Plumbers recommend disabling the circuit breaker to the hot water meter before shutting off the main water valve. This prevents the hot water heater from overheating.
Clogged Drains and Toilets: A sink or toilet that is overflowing is probably clogged and stopped up. The first thing to do is to use a plunger. If a plunger does not fix the problem, the clog is more serious and requires a plumber. Pouring drain opening products down a drain or trying to remove the clog with a snake can cause serious and expensive damage. An experienced plumber has the proper tools, knowledge, and expertise to take care of the problem.
Leaky Appliances: A leaky appliance can have a number of causes ranging from something minor to something major. The first thing to do is to check the filter in the appliance to see if it is clogged with grime and debris. If the problem is damaged pipes or something more serious, call the plumber. Loose pipes or small pinholes in pipes can be temporarily repaired with duct tape and a wrench. Home fixes, however, are only a temporary solution. Hiring a professional plumber is the only way to ensure that the leaking appliance problem is properly fixed.
Preparation Is The Best Key: A plumbing emergency is stressful and can quickly lead to expensive consequences. The best thing a homeowner can do to protect herself is to have a go-to-plumber on hand. In other words, don’t wait until a plumbing emergency occurs before contacting a plumber. Talk to family, friends, and neighbors in the area and ask for recommendations about trusty and reliable plumbing services in the area. Make sure that the plumber is licensed and insured. Doing a little research before a plumbing emergency occurs makes dealing with the emergency much easier and less stressful. You will know exactly who to call. Shut off the water and pick up the phone.
Are you looking for an emergency plumber in the Arlington area? Call The Plumbing Doctor at 703-525-9280 right now!