What is a Plumbing Emergency?

Any plumbing problems in the home can be a nuisance to deal with, but some will require you to get help immediately. Plumbing emergencies can cause damage to your home and are best tackled by a professional, so if your house or your safety is at risk it is important to call an emergency plumber as so as possible. Plumbing emergencies can include gas leaks, frozen pipes, central heating breakdowns or even sewer backups.

Properly maintained plumbing will help reduce the risk of an emergency occurring, but it is important to have the name of an emergency plumber to hand just in case. Read on to find out what you should do in an emergency of each of these plumbing emergencies.

Gas Leak

If you have a gas leak, the first thing you need to do is switch off the main valve, and then call an emergency plumber. A gas leak could result in injury or damage to your property, so if you smell gas it is important to get the problem looked at as soon as possible.

Broken Central Heating

Central heating problems can also be classed as an emergency if they occur during the winter or in a home with elderly people, people who are in poor health, or very young children. Some central heating problems can be easily solved, for example if the thermostat has been switched off, the circuit breaker has tripped or the oil tank is empty. If you’ve checked all of these and cannot find a reason for the heating to have stopped working, the next port of call is an emergency plumber.

Burst or Leaking Pipes

If you have a burst or leaking pipes, the first step is to turn off the main water valve, and then you should call a plumber. If you are not sure where your main water valve is, ask a plumber to inspect your home and advise which valve to turn off in an emergency.

Leaking pipes also need to be repaired or replaced by a professional plumber, who will also check the rest of your plumbing for damage. If you have a leak, stuff rags and towels around the pipes or place buckets underneath them to reduce any further damage to your home.

Sewer Backups

Sewer backups can be identified by a foul smell in your home, or by blocked drains causing water to rise back up into your system. If you spot anything like this, it could be a sign of sewage problems so you should call a plumber to investigate as soon as possible. If you find yourself facing any of these situations then it’s time to call for professional help from an emergency plumber.