Plumbing Emergency Guide

What to Do When You Have a Plumbing Emergency

A plumbing emergency can be your worst nightmare, and finding a reliable, one-call-away plumbing team can make all the difference. Whether it's a burst pipe, clogged drain, or overflowing toilet, Steady Flo Plumbing has you covered! 

With years of experience handling both residential and commercial plumbing concerns in Central Georgia and nearby neighborhoods, we understand how stressful these moments can be for you and your family.

Worry no more! Our team made this guide to walk you through the steps on handling a plumbing emergency, including identifying common issues, how to fix them, and what to do before the plumbing team arrives at the site.

What is a Plumbing Emergency?

Not all water leaks are an emergency. A plumbing emergency can range from damaged pipes to blocked drains to an overflowing toilet bowl, which can lead to flooding, structural damage, and exposure to harmful bacteria. 

Common Types of Plumbing Emergencies

Here are some of the common plumbing emergencies for both residential and commercial spaces that require immediate attention:

• Burst Pipes - This occurs when a pipe ruptures suddenly, which can cause water to flow uncontrollably. It can happen for several reasons, such as extreme weather conditions, pressure buildup, or environmental changes that weaken your pipes over time.
• Overflowing Toilets - This can be one of the most unsightly and frustrating plumbing emergencies you'll experience. It comes out of nowhere half the time when you are about to flush and can quickly make a mess if not addressed immediately.
• Water Heater Failures - When a water heater fails, water may leak, causing problems such as inconsistent water temperature, discolored or rusty water, and, worst, flooding.
• Sewage Backups - When wastewater flows back through drains and toilets, it can cause significant damage and health risks from exposure to bacteria in the sewage.
• Dripping Faucets and Leaking Pipes - It may look like a minor issue, but when overlooked, it can increase your water bills and lead to further damage, like corrosion, mold growth, and structural weakening over time.

Signs You Need Immediate Plumbing Help

You don't have to wait until your home is flooded to ask for help. More often than not, there are early signs of a plumbing issue that are usually overlooked. And if these early signs were left unchecked, they can quickly escalate into costly repairs and structural damage. 

Here are some tips from our Central Georgia plumbing experts on what to look out for.

1. Low Water Pressure - You may notice your shower or faucet's water flow is unusually weak or dribbles instead of flowing steadily. 
2. Unpleasant Odors - Rotten-egg odor coming from drains or plumbing fixtures is usually an indication of a plumbing problem and may pose a health risk to you and your family.
3. Water or Mold Stains - Most commonly seen in ceilings and are often caused by leaking pipes. 
4. Strange Noises - Noises coming from your pipes or fixtures could indicate loose pipe connections or other plumbing concerns.
5. Discolored or Rusty Water - If water coming out from your fixtures appears brown, yellow, or unclear, it could be due to several plumbing issues, such as sediment buildup and corrosion.
6. Unusually High Water Bills - If you did not increase your water consumption but your bills suddenly spiked, it might be a sign to consult Steady Flo plumbing experts to check and repair hidden leaks.

Immediate Steps to Take During a Plumbing Emergency

When a plumbing emergency occurs, it is essential to stay calm and keep a clear mind. Acting quickly and following the right steps can help minimize damage and ensure your safety while waiting for professional help.

1. 
   Shut Off the Water Supply - The first thing to do after a pipe burst or overflow is to turn off the main water supply. The main water switch is usually near the water meter or where the main line enters your home.
2. Assess the situation - Take a moment to identify the source of the problem and the extent of the damage so you can relay the issue properly to the plumbing team. Check which areas are affected and avoid contact with contaminated water, especially if it involves wastewater or sewage.
3. Call a Professional Plumber - Contact our Steady Flo Plumbing team. The sooner you call, the faster we can help prevent further damage and restore your home or business to normal.
4. Check for electrical hazards - If there’s flooding or standing water, switch off the electricity from the main breaker immediately. Do not touch any electrical appliances or outlets until it’s confirmed safe to do so.

How to Fix Plumbing Problems

While waiting for professional help, here are some common plumbing solutions you can do yourself to minimize damage:

Fixing Leaky Faucets & Pipes

A dripping faucet is probably caused by a worn out washer, if the faucet has one. The newer faucets have a cartridge that must be replaced. To prevent wasting a significant amount of water and increasing your water bill while waiting for our Steady Flo Plumbing experts:

• 
  Turn off the water supply to the faucet and main breaker if you think there’s an electrical hazard. 
• Remove the handle and unscrew the packing nut to check the washer or cartridge..
• Replace the old washer or cartridge with a new one and reassemble the faucet.
• Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

Unclogging Drains

A slow drain is usually a sign that the drain is clogged. It can be resolved with a few simple steps:

• Start by using a plunger to dislodge the clog. This works well for sinks, tubs, and toilet bowls.
• If that doesn't work, use a drain auger to break up and remove the blockage.
• For stubborn clogs, a chemical drain cleaner may help. However, use it more cautiously, as some chemicals can damage pipes.

Contact The Experts

Plumbing emergencies can strike at any time, and acting fast makes all the difference. Protect your home and minimize damage by calling Steady Flo Plumbing & Septic as soon as you notice a problem. Our experienced and licensed plumbers are trained to handle urgent plumbing emergencies so you can protect your home and minimize damage.

For immediate assistance, call us now at (615) 613-2055. We're available 24/7, ready to respond to burst pipes, overflowing toilets, or any unexpected leaks. When water won't wait, neither should you. Trust the team that keeps the flow steady, no matter the hour.