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A plumbing emergency can strike at any time. You might think all of your affairs are in order and your home is in perfect shape. Then just like that, an inevitable plumbing problem crops up and spoils your day.
Plumbing emergencies can range from simple issues to severe ones that can be deadly. However, whatever emergency you’re facing, there is only one route to take: get it resolved as soon as possible.
Even minor concerns can develop into bigger headaches if they’re not sorted swiftly.
If you are dealing with a plumbing emergency, here are five steps you need to take.
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
In many emergency situations, your first step should be to turn off your water supply immediately. This will help to reduce water leakage and its detrimental impact on the affected area.
If the issue is a minor one that is located in a specific area – say, the toilet – you have the ability to shut off the water supply to this part of your home.
Although if you’re unsure about the severity of the problem, turning off the main valve is recommended as a precaution.
2. Contact a Local Plumber
It can be easy to overlook contacting a local plumber amid an emergency. However, this should be done right away.
Not only will this ensure they can get to your home quickly to fix the issue, but they will also provide guidance over the phone about what to do with your particular plumbing emergency.
Picking the right plumber is vital. Say you live in Salt Lake City. When you begin searching for a company that does plumbing repairs in Salt Lake City in emergency situations, ensure they have a great reputation in the local area and provide their services at fair prices.
3. Switch Off Electrical Appliances
Understandably, water leakage can potentially damage any nearby electrical appliances. Due to this, you must switch these off and, if possible, move them away from the impacted area.
If it’s a major plumbing emergency, you also need to switch off your home’s water heater. This helps to prevent any further damage to the heating unit.
4. Manage Small Leaks
If there are any visible small leaks, it is easy to manage these on your own. Holes can be plugged up with tape, old towels, or rags. Furthermore, you can use buckets and other suitable receptacles to collect leaking water.
5. Clean Up
If you weren’t quick enough to place a bucket under the leak, you should attempt to clean any excess water. Along with this, take the opportunity to drain any excess water that’s present in the affected pipe/s.
Even if you have switched off your water supply, water can still remain within the pipes. By opening these pipes, you drain the remaining water, helping to avert further damage that could be caused before the plumber arrives.
By following these tips, you should be able to minimize the damage of a plumbing emergency in your home.
