When Should You Call the Emergency Plumber?
Parenting has made you an expert in child-related emergencies. But as a new homeowner in Orange County, plumbing emergencies feel like a whole new world.
You know not to panic over a leaky faucet, but what about the mysterious water stain that randomly appeared in your bathroom? Or a toilet that won’t stop running?
If you’ve ever stared at a plumbing problem and wondered, “Is this a call-the-plumber-at-midnight situation?”—this guide is for you.
Common Plumbing Emergencies
Gushing Leaks or Burst Pipes
If you see or hear water pouring like a waterfall, that’s a capital E plumbing Emergency. Heavy leaks like that can weaken your walls and floors. Water damage also creates the perfect environment for mold, or can even turn into a fire hazard if it reaches your electrical system.
Sagging or Stained Ceilings and Walls
When your ceiling starts to sag or a stain appears, it’s a sign that the water has been there for a while and needs to be taken care of ASAP. The last thing you want or need is a ceiling collapse and the thousands of dollars in repairs that will follow.
Water Heater Failure (Especially with a Gas Smell)
Even in the heat of summer, you need hot water in your home. From showering to laundry to the dishwasher, your water heater is in high demand. While losing access to hot water is already a big deal, if it’s accompanied by a gas smell, it’s dangerous.
Gas leaks can escalate quickly. If you notice a rotten egg smell near your water heater, get out and call us. Safety first, always.
Overflowing Toilet
Overflowing toilets can quickly go from messy to hazardous. Pro tip: You don’t need to turn off the main water line; just turn off the valve behind the toilet to avoid even more water on your floor.
Sewage Backup
If water comes up in your sink when you flush the toilet, or if you smell sewage, it’s more than just gross. It’s a serious health hazard and a sign that something has gone wrong in your plumbing. This is one of the most serious plumbing emergencies.
Gas Leaks
Smell rotten eggs? Hear hissing or whistling near your gas lines or appliances? When it comes to a gas leak, don’t play detective. Just focus on getting you and your family out of the house, and then give us a call.
Complete Loss of Water
If you lose access to clean water entirely, it might not pose an immediate health hazard, but something is seriously wrong. You don’t want to wait before getting plumbing assistance.
How to Prevent Plumbing Emergencies
A mother knows you can’t plan for everything, but you can prepare for most things. It’s always better to spend a few extra dollars for peace of mind than to shell out thousands for home repairs.
For added protection, you can install automatic water and gas shut-offs. These devices can detect leaks and shut things down before a small problem turns into a full-blown disaster.
When in Doubt, Call Barker and Sons
You deserve a home that is safe for you and your family, and that includes plumbing that you can trust. Whether you come home to a flood or a “something’s off” kind of feeling, don’t wait. Trust your gut and your plumber.
At Barker and Sons, we’re on call 24/7. If your plumbing acts up at 2 a.m. or 2 p.m., give us a call because a mother knows that when something feels wrong, it usually is. And with us on your side, you’ll never have to face it alone.
