A plumbing emergency can occur at any time. They seem to show up more often when you least expect them. Reducing the tension induced by such inconveniences on your shoulder is by first understanding what to do in such cases; it helps save money, time, and a number of stresses on your shoulder. We have seen it all here at Pro Flow Plumbing Solutions, so we are happy to help along by offering professional advice on what to do in case disaster strikes.
1. Identify the Emergency
The very first line of defense against any plumbing emergency is identifying the source. Common plumbing emergencies include:
- Burst pipes
- Flush toilet overflows
- Clogged drains
- Hot water heater problems
- Leaking faucets
Being aware of the type of problem you are dealing with can help you act appropriately and fast.
2. Shut Off Water Supply
After identifying the source of the problem, you need to shut off the water supply to prevent further damage. Here’s how:
For Burst Pipes: Locate the main water shut-off valve, usually located near the water meter or at the point where the main line enters your home. You should turn the valve clockwise to tighten it.
For Toilets: Locate the valve at the back of the toilet and rotate it clockwise.
For Sinks and Appliances: Look for the individual shut-off valves under the sink or behind the appliance and turn them clockwise.
3. Contain Small Leaks
For small leaks, you can seal the leak temporarily, at least until a professional plumber arrives, with plumber’s tape or a patch of rubber. Put a bucket under the leak to collect the dripping water.
4. Unclog Drains
If you have a clogged drain, do not use chemical drain cleaners; they will damage your pipes. First, try using a plunger or a plumber’s snake to clear the blockage. If neither of these tools works, then it is time to call a professional plumber.
5. Shut off Your Water Heater
If it is a malfunctioning water heater, shut off the water heater to prevent any property damage or an unexpected explosion. The shutoff for gas water heaters is the gas shutoff valve; turn it to the “off” position. For electric water heaters, turn off the circuit breaker.
6. Contact a Professional Plumber
After you have done everything to your ability to stop further damage, calling in a professional plumber is very important. At Pro Flow Plumbing Solutions, we have emergency services available 24/7 to ensure that any plumbing problem is attended to, effectively and efficiently. All of our plumbers are licensed, with years of experience in dealing with any kind of emergency. We are well prepared to deal with your situation to restore your plumbing system to its fully working state.
7. Document the Damage
Take photos and document all damage while you wait for the plumber so that you can make an insurance claim to repair it.
8. Avoid Chances of a Future Plumbing Emergency
After dealing with the present emergency, take some time to consider how to help yourself from going through such experiences in the future. You can accomplish this through regular pipe checking, leak detection, and annual plumbing checks that keep up your plumbing system at its best.
Why Choose Pro Flow Plumbing Solutions?
At Pro Flow Plumbing Solutions, we take great pride in our quick, professional service. Every highly trained plumber that works here takes great pride in providing quality workmanship and customer relations that can’t be beat. Whether it is a plumbing emergency or perhaps just routine maintenance, we got you covered.
Plumbing emergencies can be stressful, but knowing what to do makes a big difference. Follow these steps and get in touch with Pro Flow Plumbing Solutions so you can minimize the damage and have your plumbing system running in no time. If you are experiencing a plumbing emergency, call us now, we can help!