Emergencies can range from minor to major, but whatever the size of your plumbing emergency, one thing is certain: you need to act fast. Often, the best action you can take is to call a certified, professional plumber; however, unless they live next door, they will need time to arrive. Still, there’s no need to panic. With the following guide from Calgary’s Neptune Plumbing and Heating Ltd., you’ll know the steps to take in four common plumbing emergencies.
Emergency Plumbing Situation #1: Leaks
As far as emergencies go, a leak can seem minor, but it can quickly become major if not tended to in a timely manner. Plus, leaks can also lead to other problems such as rot and mould. Here’s what to do if you experience a leak in the following four locations:
· Faucets: tighten loose parts and replace worn washers or seals; replace the entire fixture
· Pipes: apply duct tape, rubber patches with hose clamps, or pipe repair clamps until a plumber can tend to the leak
· Toilets: check and replace the flapper valve, adjust the float, or fix the fill tube
· Appliances: shut off the power to the appliance and inspect the hoses and their connections; tighten and replace them as needed
If you are unsure what any of this means, shut off the water to the leaking area, dry up the water and call a trusted plumber.
Emergency Plumbing Situation #2: Clogs
· Sinks, Showers & Drains: use a plunger or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by boiling water; try a drain snake for deeper obstructions
· Toilets: use a plunger to remove the clog; try a plumbing snake to break up the clog
Avoid using chemicals as they are highly corrosive and can weaken your pipes and harm the water supply as well.
Emergency Plumbing Situation #3: Sewer Back-ups
This is obviously a major plumbing emergency. Before you call a plumber who is specialized in sewer line repairs, stop using water fixtures and shut the water and electricity off in the affected area. Protect yourself with rubber boots and gloves, and a facemask (N95 respirator if possible), eye protection to avoid splashes, disposable coveralls to cover exposed skin, if you enter the area to remove valuable items. Open windows for ventilation, and photograph or document the damage for insurance purposes.
Emergency Plumbing Situation #4: Burst Pipes
As above, this is a major plumbing emergency, and you need to act immediately. Shut off the main water supply and the electricity in the affected area. Locate the pipe and call your favourite plumber. As you wait for them to arrive, take pictures of the area for insurance purposes, remove valuables and other objects, remove as much water as you can, and ventilate the area to stave off mould growth.
Emergency Plumbing Calgary
From leaks to clogs, back-ups, and burst pipes, emergency plumbing service is just a phone call away. In Calgary and the surrounding area, call the trusted professionals at Neptune Plumbing and Heating Ltd. We’ve been in the business for a quarter of a century and are available 24/7 at 403-255-7938.
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