Your plumbing system is one of the most important components of your home. It’s also one of the most complicated. While it’s okay to go the DIY route for simple leaks (faucets that need a washer replaced) or a running toilet that needs a flapper adjustment, it’s best to leave the big problems to a skilled plumber. Here are 5 reasons to call a professional plumbing in a plumbing emergency.
1. Clogged Drains
You may be able to resolve a clogged drain with a plunger, but if water is backing up or rising in a sink, you need an emergency plumbing service to avoid a flooding incident and costly water damage. If you have multiple clogged drains, it indicates a clog in your sewer system.
If you’ve tried to unclog a sink, bathtub, or shower drain the DIY way and it doesn’t work or if clogs become consistent, you need the help of a professional.
2. Burst Pipe
A burst pipe is a common plumbing emergency, especially in winter when water may freeze inside the pipe. Other factors that cause pipes to burst include aging, corrosion, tree roots, and high water pressure. Either way, a burst pipe is a serious plumbing emergency that requires a 24-hour emergency plumber. That’s because huge amounts of water will cause significant damage to your home’s infrastructure, electronics, and other valuables.
Pro tip: Ensure you know how to turn off the main water valve until the plumber arrives.
3. A Sudden Drop in Water Pressure
Have you experienced a sudden drop in water pressure without an explanation? You may be spending more time in the shower, washing dishes, or doing laundry. Other signs include noisy pipes or rusty water.
The problem may be pinhole leaks in pipes or a tiny clog in the aerator of a faucet. If the problem worsens over time or your plumbing is decades old, it’s time to call a professional. Putting off the problem will cause spikes in your water bill, broken pipes, larger leaks, and may damage appliances that use water.
4. Overflowing or Constantly Running Toilet
A toilet that overflows will cause an unsanitary mess that no one wants to deal with. Even if the cause is a simple drain block, it’s advisable to let the pros tackle the issue so it doesn’t continue occurring. Turn off the toilet’s water supply and pick up the phone to call a professional.
Does your toilet keep running long after you’ve flushed it? When the seal connecting the tank to the bowl is damaged, water leaks in and tricks the tank into continuously refilling. In addition to the annoying sound, your water usage will spike.
5. When Installing New Appliances
If you’re remodeling your bathroom or kitchen and intend to install new appliances, don’t try to save money by going the DIY route. Appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators, sinks, and toilets are more complicated to install than you think. Their components have to be integrated into your overall plumbing system correctly to work the way they should. Place these installations into the trusted hands of a professional.
