July 25, 2023

What is Considered a Plumbing Emergency?

Author:

Proud Plumbing

We completely understand that all plumbing problems feel like a plumbing emergency. Nobody wants to live with clogged drains, damaged pipes, faulty toilets or a more serious emergency plumbing situation like severe water leaks caused by a pipe burst or an overflowing toilet.

But luckily, not just any problem with your plumbing system is considered an emergency, and only some plumbing problems will require immediate professional assistance. While some plumbing issues may pose potentially severe property damage or safety risks, other plumbing problems are relatively harmless. This article will discuss what an emergency plumbing issue looks like and when you may need to call an emergency plumber.

A plumbing emergency is an issue that poses immediate safety risks; these risks may be regarding potential property damage, harm to your physical safety or the disruption of essential services like your main water supply. To be considered a plumbing emergency, the problem could cause significant damage if it is not addressed immediately.

What is considered a plumbing emergency?

Common plumbing emergency scenarios

With years of experience in the plumbing industry, we have become a little too familiar with certain plumbing emergencies. Topping the list of the most common and destructive plumbing emergencies is a burst pipe.

Burst pipes

A burst pipe can cause flooding leading to considerable water damage, which is even more likely if the main water supply is involved. In the case of a burst pipe, it is essential to call out a professional plumber and get control of the water flow ASAP, to minimise the impact and damage.

Sewage backups or blockages

These blockages can lead to unsanitary conditions, which, if left unattended, can cause pretty significant health hazards for those living or working in the space.

Gas leaks or issues with your gas line

Gas leaks or suspected issues with gas lines are also classified as emergencies due to their pretty scary potential for causing explosions or fires if left unattended. If you suspect any form of gas leak, it is imperative to evacuate and get in contact with a professional ASAP.

A sudden loss of water supply or change in water flow

Issues with your main water supply can disrupt your daily activities and cause some pretty major inconveniences. While not an emergency in the moment, the lack of access to a household essential, water, will pretty quickly become an emergency if not addressed. It is especially urgent in commercial settings, such as businesses where access to water is crucial for daily operations.

Malfunctioning water heaters

Particularly when attached to the hot water system, a malfunctioning water heater can pose some serious safety risks due to the boiling temperatures and potential for unit explosions.

Please note this list is by no means exhaustive, and if you come across any plumbing situations that pose an immediate threat to your health, safety or home, you should immediately contact a professional plumber and treat the situation as a plumbing emergency.

Importance of professional prompt assistance

When it comes to a plumbing emergency, it’s essential to get in touch with a professional plumber that you can rely on. Delaying repairs can escalate the situation and cause further damage to your home or business. For example, the water damage that an unattended burst pipe can cause can quickly turn from a fairly manageable situation, to an expensive repair job.

While DIY is great for many things, attempting a DIY approach to urgent plumbing issues is not the best idea and will likely cost you more time and money. Furthermore, without the right experience and tools, you may worsen the problem again, leading to more extensive damage.

Looking for a reliable 24/7 emergency plumbing service?

For any urgent emergencies related to your plumbing or gas system, get in touch with us at Proud Plumbing & Gas. We offer a 24/7 emergency service so that our team can help you outside of normal business hours to ensure your plumbing situation doesn’t get out of hand.

We offer round-the-clock availability, including weekends and public holidays, so you never find yourself stranded without a helping hand. Our team of experienced and licensed emergency plumbers are able to quickly and calmly respond to any kind of common plumbing emergency, ensuring no further damage is done to your property.

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