Important Vs. Urgent - Do You Know Which Is Which?
Among the many challenges homeowners face, plumbing issues are perhaps the most dreaded. They can be unbelievably messy, frustrating, and damaging - not to mention downright nasty. But many homeowners aren’t entirely clear on what to do when something goes wrong. Often, calling the plumber is viewed as a last resort. In some cases, the problem may be a simple one that homeowners can solve on their own.
But for some problems, the more time spent trying to figure out a solution (or trying to decide whether or not to call a plumber), the more damage. That’s why it’s so important for homeowners to know which major problems can wait and which require immediate professional attention.
Broken Water Pipe - Urgent
Many people think they don’t have to worry about their pipes breaking if they live in a warm climate where the pipes aren’t likely to freeze. The truth is, a broken pipe can occur for several reasons - age, corrosion, excessive vibration, worn joints and couplings, overpressurized supply lines, shifting soil or home foundation, etc.
When a pipe breaks, it’s pretty easy to see why it’s an urgent problem. Whether it’s underground, in a basement, under a sink, or behind a wall, a broken pipe can release a massive deluge of water and cause extensive damage in just a matter of minutes. In some cases, homeowners could be dealing with the consequences for weeks after the pipe gets fixed. It’s crucial in this scenario to immediately shut off the home’s water supply and call a plumber.
Toilet Clog - Important
A clogged toilet may seem like it belongs in the “urgent” category - anyone who’s experienced this fiasco knows it can’t end soon enough. But as unpleasant as it is, it’s not as urgent an issue as it appears. This is because as long as it’s not overflowing and continuing to run, it can essentially be left alone and not cause any damage. Even if it is running, one can shut off the toilet’s water supply locally by turning the valve behind the bowl.
Of course, a brave soul can get to work with the plunger and eventually force the blockage out, provided it’s not too severe or isn’t too far down the drainpipe. But this is one problem that’s not likely to escalate while the homeowners wait for help to arrive. So while it may seem like an emergency if it happens in the middle of the night, it can probably wait until morning - unless, of course, it’s the home’s only toilet!
Backed-Up Sewage - Urgent
There are few things so horrifying as having sewage bubble up out of the home’s drains. It usually happens in the shower or bathtub first, but it can quickly make its way to the sinks. A sewage system backup is most often caused by a clog in the underground sewer or septic lines - usually grease, foreign objects, or invading tree roots - but it can also be caused by a major catastrophe in the municipal sewer system.
This is an extremely urgent issue. Raw sewage may contain harmful bacteria, parasites, and diseases - any contact with it can cause serious illness. It can also produce toxic gases, so it’s not even safe to breathe in the presence of sewage. And when a sewage backup occurs, there’s really nothing homeowners can do about it except stop using water, try to stay out of the house, and of course, call their trusted plumber.
About Chris Wilson Plumbing & Heating Repairs Inc
The family-owned Chris Wilson Plumbing & Heating Repairs Inc has been proud to serve Monterey, CA since 1999. Their highly-trained and respectful technicians are available 24/7 to handle any emergency. They offer competitive pricing, financing, and membership benefits. Call now for plumbing service!
