What is Considered a Plumbing Emergency?
The best way to solve emergency plumbing problems is to stop them from happening in the first place with preventative routine plumbing maintenance. Routine plumbing inspections can only account for so much, however. You can’t solve everything, and you can’t predict the future. Given time, something, somewhere, will go wrong with your plumbing eventually. Learning how to respond when it happens will stop the problem from spiraling out of control.
Plumbing emergencies that require your immediate and swift attention are:
- Pipe burst: A pipe burst can leak hundreds of gallons of water in just a few minutes. If not addressed quickly, this can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and other costly repairs. In addition, large amounts of water leakage can cause extensive flooding that puts your family and property at risk.
- Running Toilet: This issue can cause significant water loss and waste. When the toilet flushes, the tank should fill with clean water and then stop running. If the water continues to run after the tank has filled, that means there's likely a problem with the valve, float ball, or some other part of the toilet mechanism.
- Multiple Clogs: One clogged pipe isn't a big deal. But when several pipes are backing up it could be a sign of something more serious, like a clogged or damaged sewer line.
- Sewer Line Backup: Sewage backup is an environmental hazard and a health risk, and it obstructs your ability to use running water. If you’re on the city sewer, your sewer line may be clogged. If you have a septic tank, you might need to have your septic tank pumped.
- No Water or Low Water Pressure: This issue can make it difficult to shower, wash dishes and clothes, and even cook food. Additionally, having no running water or low water pressure can indicate larger issues with your home's plumbing system, such as supply pipe blockage, leaks, or a damaged main water line. Such issues could lead to flooding or other serious damage if they are not addressed quickly.
- Malfunctioning Water Heater: For starters, a broken water heater can cause flooding and other damage to the home, resulting in costly repairs. In addition, a malfunctioning water heater may lead to unsafe levels of bacteria or contamination in the water supply if it is not functioning properly. This could then pose health risks to those living within the home.
- Gas Leak. Natural gas is flammable and combustible, meaning a small spark or flame could cause an explosion. Gas leaks are also odorless and colorless, making them difficult to detect without the right equipment. Inhaling natural gas can also cause dizziness, nausea, headaches, and even asphyxiation in extreme cases.
- Full Septic Tank.
Some plumbing issues are minor, but problems like these can't wait. If you need emergency plumbing services in a hurry, our plumbing technicians at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of The Inland Empire are here for the job.
For reliable, convenient, and professional emergency plumbing in Fontana, call on us or contact us online.