Dealing with a plumbing emergency can be a stressful and messy situation. It could be a burst pipe, an overflowing toilet, or an unexpected leak, but knowing how to handle the situation until professional help arrives can prevent further damage to your home. Today, the local plumbers at Polar Bear Services will share some simple steps that homeowners in Hoover and throughout the Greater Birmingham metro area can follow in a plumbing emergency.
Seven things to do when an emergency plumbing problem happens
- Stay calm
The first thing to do is to stay calm. Panicking won’t solve the problem and might make things worse. Take a deep breath and focus on what needs to be done. - Shut off the water
If you know what fixture is causing the problem, you can shut the water valve off at the source. If unsure, it’s best to turn off the main water supply. It’s important to know where this valve is located beforehand, so familiarize yourself with its location beforehand. - Turn off appliances, if applicable
If your plumbing emergency involves an appliance, such as a dishwasher or washing machine, turn off the appliance to prevent further leakage or damage. - Assess the situation
Take a moment to assess the situation. Try to identify the source of the problem. Is it a burst pipe, a clogged drain, or a malfunctioning appliance? Understanding the cause of the emergency will help you communicate more effectively with the plumber when they arrive. - Call the plumber
When you encounter plumbing issues, contact your plumbing company and notify them. Be sure to ask if there’s anything else you should do before they arrive. - Contain the water
Standing water can cause severe damage to your home’s flooring, drywall, and other materials. Moreover, it can lead to the growth of mold and other issues. To prevent further damage, it’s essential to contain the water as quickly as possible. You can use towels, buckets, or a mop to absorb the water and prevent it from spreading throughout your property. - Take pictures/video
While waiting for your plumber’s arrival, document the damage by taking photos and recording video. This documentation will prove helpful should you need to file an insurance claim.
A word on safety
During a plumbing emergency, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Avoid standing water, especially if there’s a risk of electrical hazards. If you’re unsure what to do, err on the side of caution and wait for professional help.
Prepare for future plumbing problems
Once the immediate crisis has been resolved, take some time to review your plumbing system and identify any potential issues that could lead to future emergencies. Consider scheduling regular maintenance checks to catch problems early and prevent them from escalating into crises.
Remember, dealing with a plumbing emergency can be daunting. Still, staying calm and following these steps can minimize damage to your home and resolve the problem as quickly as possible.
Do you have a local plumber you can rely on?
When plumbing problems happen, you need a plumbing expert you can rely on. Here at Polar Bear Services, we offer plumbing repair services in Birmingham and surrounding communities that include:
- 24/7 emergency plumbing services
- Highly trained and fully licensed plumbers
- Fast and reliable service
- Upfront pricing and no hidden fees or surprises
- Our 100% satisfaction guarantee
Whether you have a toilet overflowing, a clogged drain, or other plumbing issues, you can rely on our locally owned and family-operated company to help!a
