At Green Energy Mechanical, we know what to do in a plumbing emergency. Call us at (781) 236-3421 for 24/7 emergency plumbing services.
While most plumbing issues cause minor inconveniences, major plumbing emergencies create stress, water damage, and thousands of dollars in repairs. Like many homeowners, you want to know how to mitigate the damage when possible. Although emergency plumbers should handle severe plumbing problems, you can take some steps to prevent the damage from expanding.
As a trusted emergency plumber in Canton, MA, we like to keep our community informed and prepared. Below, you’ll learn what you can do when faced with a plumbing emergency before plumbing emergency services arrive.
#1 Cut Your Water Supply Off
Plumbing emergencies typically come with lots of water spillage. Water floods your floor, sprays your belongings, and splatters across your walls. This results in extensive structural and property.
If you aren’t sure what to do in a plumbing emergency, start by immediately cutting the water supply. If you don’t know where to find your main water supply, take the time to locate it in the event of a plumbing emergency. You can prevent costly damage by doing so.
#2 Identify The Problem
Investigate your property to pinpoint the source of your emergency. Common reasons for plumbing emergencies include:
- Frozen, damaged, or burst pipes
- A leaky, malfunctioning water heater
- Severe toilet clogs that cause sewage backup
- Clogged drains
In most instances, you should easily identify the problem.
Other times, the problem remains hidden. Follow the direction from which the water flows and look for areas with excess spillage.
#3 Check Your Water Heater
After investigating your home, locate your hot water heater and turn it off. Excess water can damage the heater’s structure and other components.
Since water heaters often use gas or electricity to keep their contents warm, they remain under pressure most of the time. An overstressed heater may burst or otherwise malfunction, leading to more damage and repairs. If this occurs, you may also have to replace the entire water heater rather than a few components.
#4 Stop or Slow Any Leaks
If you observe a leak during your home inspection, try to stop the water flow. Use towels and blankets to soak up the excess water if possible. You can also sweep or squeegee water toward floor drains or doors.
For leaky sink faucets or small pipes, tie towels and rags around the leaky area to slow the water flow. If you have a larger leak, wrap plumbing tape around the source. You can also use trash cans and buckets to catch the water that drips from above.
#5 Drain Excess Water From Your Plumbing
Turn the knobs on each faucet to the “on” position. Water will travel through the pipes and out of the spigot. This eliminates any excess water from your plumbing system.
The more water you can direct into drains, the less damage your property will incur. Make certain you turn all faucets on, including those located outdoors.
#6 Inspect Drains for Clogs
Sometimes, plumbing emergencies occur because of a clogged drain. If you don’t observe any leaks, check each drain in your home for standing water. Once you locate the clogged drain, use plungers or drain snakes to remove the offending items or substances.
#7 Inspect and Unplug Electrical Appliances
When water combines with electricity, they create a dangerous fire hazard. You can also face electrocution if electricity travels across the water. Since water conducts electricity, an electric jolt can travel throughout your home to the nearest grounding force.
If the grounding force is a person, they’ll sustain severe or fatal injuries. Check electrical appliances like refrigerators, lamp stands, and televisions for any immediate threats. Then, quickly unplug them to eliminate potentially fatal hazards.
#8 Document the Damage with Photos
Once you ensure your safety and that of your family, take photos of each flooded area in your home. Capture the damage in great detail by taking multiple photos of each room. Your insurance company will use these photos to determine your payout.
Take mental notes when possible about expensive items that sustained damage. Computers, furniture, and other expensive belongings may need replacement.
Call Green Energy Mechanical Inc. When You Have a Plumbing Emergency
When faced with floods from burst pipes and clogged drains, you need a reputable emergency plumber who knows what to do in a plumbing emergency. You can trust our team to help you navigate your emergency.
Call our Green Energy Mechanical Inc. team at (781) 236-3421 for 24/7 service and to learn more about what is considered a plumbing emergency.
Author Bio:
Jonathan Neves
Worked in the HVAC industry since he was 17. He started as an HVAC service technician for commercial buildings and eventually came into the residential market because of his love of working with people. He believes that what really sets Green Energy Mechanical apart is how long they stand behind their work and how compassionate his employees are for their clients.
