Plumbing Issues – When to call in the experts

Plumbing emergencies can happen at any time. Whether you have reduced water flow, a clogged toilet or a leak that needs immediate attention, sometimes professional service is needed.

There are many times when you can “do-it-yourself” when it comes to your home plumbing. However, when plumbing issues reach an emergency level, sometimes it’s best to call in the experts. Some emergency plumbing issues that require professional attention include:

Major flooding

Whether the flooding is the result of a water heater, sewer backup or a clogged toilet – any of these can result in an immediate water emergency requiring prompt service. From sump pumps that aren’t working properly to plumbing fixture failures, many locations now provide water clean-up and restoration services to quickly get you on the road to repair.

Freezing showers

A cold shower is often the result of an issue with your hot water heater. Sometimes, the solution can be as easy as checking the breaker box on your electric heater (for gas, check to see that your pilot light is on). However, if you hear rattling noises and the issues aren’t resolved with the simple flip of a switch, call the plumbing professionals. A good rule of thumb – if your water heater is over 11 years old, it will be due for replacement sooner than later.

Wet yard

Are you noticing small wet spots scattered throughout your yard? If so, this indicates that your main water supply line is probably leaking onto your lawn. A foul smell indicates a leak in your sewer line. Situations like these are best left to the professionals as your water and sewer lines may need major repairs or even full replacement.

Check outdoors

Check your water spigots first. If you see any signs of dripping even when the faucet is turned off completely, it’s possible you have an internal leak, possibly caused by exposure to freezing temperatures during winter months. This can be a serious issue because the supply pipe that leads to the hose bib may have also suffered damage and it could be leaking into your wall or basement, leading to water damage, mold and other problems.