Pipe Disasters 101: What They Are and When to Call for Help

Posted by West Pennant Hills Emergency Plumbing on 18 Jan 2025

Plumbing emergencies can be the worst nightmare for homeowners. Clogged drains, burst pipes, leaking fixtures, and gas leaks can cause severe damage to your home and put your family’s security at risk.

It is crucial to deal with these issues quickly and effectively to limit the damage and keep your home safe. We’ll go over the most common types of plumbing emergencies and what to do in the event in the event of an emergency.

Common Types of Plumbing Emergencies

Pipes Burst Pipes

The causes of burst pipes

Burst pipes are usually caused by freezing temperatures, aging pipes or high pressure water.

The signs of bursting pipes

Signs of burst pipes are low water pressure, strange noises coming from pipes, wet spots on walls or ceilings, and a decline in water quality.

What to do in the event of a pipe burst

If you suspect that there is a ruptured pipe, turn off the main water supply immediately and seek out an experienced plumber.

Clogged Drains

What causes drains to become clogged?

Clogged drains are typically caused by the buildup of hair or soap scum and other sludge in pipes.

Signs of blocked drains

The indicators of a blocked drain include the slow drainage of water gurgling noises coming from pipes, and foul smells.

What should you do in the event of a blocked drain

Try using a plunger or a drain snake to free the drain. If neither of these approaches succeed, you should call an experienced plumber.

Leaking Fixtures

The causes of leaky fixtures

Leaking fixtures are typically caused by worn or damaged components.

The signs of leaky fixtures

The signs of leaking fixtures are drips, damp spots on ceilings or walls, and an abrupt increase in water bills.

What to do in case of a leaking fixture

Try tightening any loose connections, or replacing damaged parts. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, contact an experienced plumber.

Gas Leaks

Causes of gas leaks

Gas leaks are often caused by damaged pipes or faulty gas appliances.

Signs of gas leaks

Signs of gas leaks are whistling or hissing sounds near devices that use gas, musty egg smell, as well as dizziness or headaches.

What to do in the event of the possibility of a gas leak

If you suspect that there is a gas leak, evacuate your home immediately and contact a professional plumber.

When should you call for professional Help

The importance of calling an experienced plumber

Professional plumbers are equipped with the knowledge, experience, and equipment to handle plumbing emergencies efficiently and quickly. Doing the repair of the plumbing issue yourself can risk your safety and your property at risk.

Signs that indicate you need professional help

Signs that suggest you require professional assistance include an abrupt increase in water bills or a decline in water quality, and the inability to fix the problem yourself.

What to expect when you call to get help

If you contact a professional plumber and you will receive prompt response as well as a thorough analysis of the issue, and an upfront cost estimate.

Prevention Tips

Regular plumbing maintenance

Regularly scheduled maintenance on plumbing can prevent plumbing issues by identifying and fixing minor issues before they become bigger ones.

Simple steps to avoid common plumbing problems

Simple methods to avoid common plumbing issues are to use drain screens, not pouring grease down drains and avoid flushing items that are not flushable into the toilet.

When to schedule plumbing inspections

Conduct plumbing inspections each year or bi-annually in order to detect and address potential issues before they become emergencies.

Conclusion

Emergencies with plumbing can prove difficult and expensive, but dealing with them quickly and efficiently can minimize the damage and ensure your family’s safety. Remember to call an experienced plumber in case you require assistance and to adopt preventive measures to avoid common plumbing problems. With these suggestions, you can make sure that your plumbing system is running smoothly and prevent stress and expense in the event of an emergency. If you’re in the middle of an emergency with your plumbing Do not hesitate to call West Pennant Hills Emergency Plumbing at 0480 024 272. Our team of highly trained and skilled plumbers are available 24 hours a day to help you with any emergency you may be facing.

Commonly asked questions (FAQs)

How should I proceed in the event of a plumbing emergency?

In case of an emergency in plumbing, shut off your main supply of water immediately and contact an experienced plumber.

Can I fix a plumbing emergency by myself?

It’s not recommended to try and fix a plumbing emergency by yourself. It could put your life and your property in danger. It’s best to call an experienced plumber to help.

What do I know about when I should call for help from a professional?

Signs that you require professional help include a sudden rise in your water bills and a drop in water quality and the inability to resolve the issue your self.

What can I do to prevent plumbing issues from occurring?

It is possible to prevent plumbing emergencies from happening by scheduling regular maintenance of your plumbing by taking a few steps to avoid typical plumbing issues, as well as scheduling inspections of your plumbing annually or bi-annually.

What do I look for in an experienced plumber?

Find a professional plumber who is licensed, insured, experienced, and has an excellent reputation.

What’s the price to engage an experienced plumber?

Cost of employing an experienced plumber will vary based on the nature of the emergency and the extent of damage. Call West Pennant Hills Emergency Plumbing for an upfront cost estimate.