A home will likely have many plumbing issues over its lifetime. But how do you know when it’s an actual emergency worth calling out a plumber for? Of course, if water is gushing out of pipe, this is an obvious sign!
But, there are a few subtle plumbing issues, you may not realise need the attention of an emergency plumber. Let’s look at which plumbing problems really shouldn’t be left.
1. Bad Drain Smells
If you encounter Bad drain smells for more than two days, this could point to a serious issue in the plumbing system. Debris or animal waste may have built up, which if left, could create expensive damage to the plumbing system. It could also mean a broken valve in the pipe. Call an emergency plumber immediately for help.
2. Gurgling Sounds
Gurgling or banging sounds, when the sink or toilet is not in use, could mean a drain blockage or leak. Check on the ceiling and floor for stains or wet patches. If the noise persists, turn off your water supply and call an emergency plumber to resolve the issue.
3. The Smell of Gas
If you smell gas in your home, this should not be ignored. It could indicate a gas leak which can pose a danger to life. Open all doors and windows and turn off the gas emergency control valve. Call in an emergency plumber immediately and get outside while you wait for them.
4. No Water at All
If your water has stopped running, first contact your landlord to check there isn’t any emergency repairs going on. If not, this could point to a hidden leak or complete break in the piping system. This could get serious fast if water is leaking into your home, so call your local plumber right away.
5. Pipes Have Frozen
You may not realise that frozen pipes are a serious issue. But, if left, pressure can build up in the pipes causing them to burst, leading to thousands lost in damages. If you suspect you may have frozen pipes, don’t hesitate to call an emergency plumber.
6. Slow Moving Water
Is water sitting in your sink? Or has a puddle of water refused to drain away in the shower? Either way, this is a sign there is a problem in your plumbing system. It could mean a blockage in the pipes, or that old pipes need replacing. You can try a few DIY methods to unclog your sink. If no luck, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals.
7. Low Water Pressure
Going for your morning shower and finding the water pressure has turned into a trickle is extremely frustrating. This could point to a cracked pipe, a water leak or corroded pipes. To pinpoint the problem, call an emergency plumber as soon as possible.