Plumbing emergencies can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare, leading to stress and potential damage to one’s property. Unfortunately, every homeowner or renter will experience nerve-wracking episodes of dealing with plumbing emergencies at some point in their house. Since these emergencies are a common and somewhat inevitable occurrence, it’s only wise for everyone to acquaint themselves with the different prevalent plumbing issues homeowners face.
As you equip yourself with the right knowledge, you’ll better understand when to troubleshoot and when to call for a professional plumber’s help; you can check out Sarkinen Plumbing here to hire skilled and trusted plumbers.Â
That being said, let’s dive in and explore the common plumbing concerns you can face.
Understanding Common Plumbing Emergencies
Dripping Faucet
A dripping faucet is often caused by a worn-out washer or a faulty O-ring inside the faucet assembly. Over time, the constant friction and water pressure can lead to these components deteriorating, resulting in a persistent and annoying drip.
- How to Avoid the Problem
Avoid forcing the faucet handles too tight, as it can accelerate wear and tear. Also, regularly maintain your faucets by inspecting and replacing washers or O-rings at the first sign of leakage.
- How to rectify a dripping faucet
Turn off the water supply under the sink and thereafter, disassemble the faucet. If the O-ring or washer is broken or worn out, replace it with a new correctly-sized one. Reassemble the faucet, turn on the water supply, and check for leaks.
- When to Call a Plumber
If you encounter difficulties during the troubleshooting process or the dripping persists despite your efforts, it’s best to call a plumber to assess and fix the issue properly.
Clogged Toilets
Clogged toilets are often the result of flushing excessive toilet paper, hygiene products, or items that do not disintegrate easily. The buildup of mineral deposits or tree roots in the sewer line can also lead to recurrent clogs.
- How to Avoid the Problem
Educate household members about proper toilet use and what can and cannot be flushed. Keep a covered waste bin in the bathroom for disposing of non-flushable items.
- How to rectify clogged toilet
Immediately turn off the toilet’s water supply by closing the shutoff valve behind the toilet. Use a plunger to try and dislodge the clog gently. If the plunger doesn’t work, consider using a toilet auger to reach and remove the blockage.
- When to Call a Plumber
If the clog is stubborn and cannot be cleared with a plunger or auger, or if you suspect a more severe issue in the main sewer line, it’s time to call a plumber to avoid further damage.
Sewer Backup
A sewer backup can occur due to various reasons, such as tree root intrusion, aging sewer lines, or excessive buildup of debris and grease in the pipes. Heavy rains and flooding can also contribute to sewer backups.
- How to Avoid the Problem
Regularly schedule sewer line inspections and cleanings, especially if you have older plumbing systems. Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items or pouring grease down the drains.
- How to rectify sewer backup
If you experience multiple drains backing up simultaneously or notice foul odors near your drains, it may indicate a sewer backup. In such cases, it’s best to call a plumber to conduct a professional inspection and clear the blockage safely.
- When to Call a Plumber
Sewer backups can be hazardous to your health and require specialized equipment to resolve. Call a plumber immediately to address the issue and prevent further contamination.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains can result from a buildup of hair, soap scum, food particles, or other debris in the pipes. Grease poured down the kitchen sink can also lead to clogs over time.
- How to Avoid the Problem
Install drain screens to catch hair and large particles. Avoid pouring grease and oils down the drains. Regularly clean the drains using natural cleaners like baking soda and vinegar.
- How to Rectify Clogged Drains
Try using a plunger to dislodge the clog. For kitchen sinks, use a sink plunger or a plumbing snake to remove the blockage.
- When to Call a Plumber
If your attempts to clear the clog are unsuccessful or if you notice slow drainage in multiple sinks or tubs, there may be a more extensive clog deep in the plumbing system. In such cases, calling a plumber is the best course of action.
Keep in mind that basic solutions and troubleshooting can be successful for minor issues. But to manage more complicated issues, it’s important to know when to call a professional plumber, like those at Sarkinen Plumbing. The peace of mind that comes with a professionally maintained plumbing system is invaluable.
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