Are you experiencing plumbing issues that you think may require immediate attention from an emergency plumber? In this article, we will quickly go over several plumbing problems that can indicate it is time to call for an emergency plumber.
Such problems include leaks from fixtures or the ceiling; a clogged or broken toilet; burst pipes; a broken washer machine hose; and a sewer line backup. We will discuss these emergency problems in more detail, the steps to mitigate an ongoing crisis, and preventative maintenance measures to consider to keep your home safe in the future.
It's never fun to experience a plumbing emergency, so this article will help you assess your risk level based on our 70+ years of experience of being the #1 Atlanta heat, air, plumbing, and electrical company. So, let's begin by explaining some common plumbing problems that are considered emergencies and require immediate attention by an Atlanta emergency plumber:
Leaks from fixtures or ceiling
Fixtures include faucets, sinks, bathtubs, showers, and toilets. If any fixtures leak, you are in need of proper fixture services and must work with a licensed and certified plumber before the situation worsens. The longer you wait, the more out of control and expensive the situation can become.
Additionally, if visible water on the ceiling is present, you must seek immediate assistance. Not only does it damage the inside of your ceiling, but water is highly conductive around electrical appliances and fixtures, which poses a risk to your family's health and safety. Do not risk a do-it-yourself (DIY) attempt in a situation like this. Leave the risk mitigation to a licensed and trained plumber.
If left unresolved, the likelihood of electrical shock, electrocution, fires, and mold within the walls increases. Do not wait—Schedule service with an Estes Services licensed and certified plumber now.
Clogged or broken toilet
Does your toilet continue to clog even after using a plunger? Is it continuously running with no stopping in sight? Simple remedies such as baking powder, dish soap, and a plunger may help mitigate the problem. However, DIY attempts can lead to more significant and serious problems, such as sewer line backup or burst pipes. Pressure increases as more water flushes with clogged material, which can cause the pipes to burst.
If simple remedies for unclogging the drain do not work, avoid using it; turn off its water supply; and call a certified and licensed plumber immediately.
Burst pipes
There's no question that a burst pipe qualifies as a plumbing emergency. You may be dealing with a leak or burst pipes if you notice an unexpected and dramatic spike in your utility bill or wet spots on your walls.
The culprit might be aging pipes from wear and tear overtime or through the expansion and contraction during the winter months when the temperature drops below freezing. You need to call a plumber immediately because burst pipes, or even the most minor leaks, can lead to mold, mildew, wood rot, and structural damage to your home.
Broken washer machine hose
A broken washing machine hose can lead to leaks and water damage inside the walls around your laundry room. The worst case scenario is the washer machine hose or water line breaking while asleep or away from your home.
Leaks and electronics don't mix well. It's best to shut off the power to your washer machine and appliances on your breaker panel before trying to mitigate the broken water hose. The electrical shock or electrocution risk increases with visible water on the floor. Do not wait to call an emergency plumber.
Sewer Line Backup
Is there a foul smell permeating throughout your home? Odors and backed-up sewage are tell-tale signs of a sewer line issue, requiring immediate service that should not be ignored.
Some of the most common causes of sewer line repair issues include flushing heavy household materials, overgrown tree roots, disposing of heavy grease in sink drains, and greater issues such as aging sewer systems.
More specifically, there are a few key points to remember regarding the common causes of sewer line backup:
Tree Roots
Inspecting your home's perimeter for overgrown tree roots is good practice. Trimming is recommended to prevent tree roots from growing underneath your home and into your piping.
Cooking grease
Also, cooking grease shouldn't be disposed of in sinks. As grease begins to cool in your piping, it thickens and builds up, allowing build-up over time. Instead, consider a heat-resistant disposable container for used grease and oils.
Aging sewer lines
Before plastic piping became the norm, sewer lines were made out of cast iron, typically lasting only a short time before breaking down, rusting, and developing holes. Consult an expert plumber at Estes Services to discuss sewer line repair services today.
If you are experiencing sewer line backup and think it requires immediate service, schedule an emergency service with Estes Service plumbing service now.
Ways to prevent plumbing emergencies
There are several practical ways you can prevent plumbing emergencies in the future, including the following recommendations:
Don't flush anything other than waste or toilet paper. Cotton balls, paper towels, and bandages are not meant to be flushed. Neither are self-care products or even too much toilet paper.
Know where your water shut-off valve is. It should be located on the same side of your house as your water meter. That way, when you find yourself in an emergency unexpectedly, you aren't scrambling to find your shut-off valve. If you need assistance with this, our Atlanta plumbers can help and walk you through the steps.
Be aware of the temperature in the winter months, especially at night. On cold nights, you can leave your faucets dripping and open cabinet doors to let heat permeate any under-cabinet pipes. You can also wrap any problem pipes with electrical heat tape or insulate them with foam insulation wrap.
Our licensed and trained plumbers can provide you with more specific recommendations based on your home during your service or consultation.
To ensure preventative plumbing maintenance is properly and routinely followed and to avoid future emergencies, we also recommend enrolling in one of Maintenance Membership Plans. Our Plumbing Plan includes a comprehensive plumbing maintenance check, up to 15% off all repairs, and a one-year warranty on all repairs. This is a simple and affordable way to gain better peace of mind about your home's plumbing systems.
Contact the Emergency Plumbers at Estes Services
Are you experiencing one of these plumbing problems? It's time to contact the emergency plumbers at Estes Services because plumbing emergencies can't wait.
Water damage, sewage backup, and serious leaks can disrupt daily life, pose a risk to your health and safety, and even severely damage your home. When a plumbing emergency strikes, you need an emergency plumber that you can depend on to get your home back to normal. Leave it to the Atlanta plumbing experts at Estes Services to help you through your plumbing emergency.
Our emergency plumbing services are ready to serve you, from fixing broken or clogged toilets to water leaks and sewer line backups. If you're in the greater Atlanta area, schedule emergency service with Estes Service now.
Since 1949, we have been proudly serving the greater Atlanta area.
