Common Plumbing Emergencies at Home

Plumbing emergencies come in several forms, affecting various parts of your home. Let’s explore some of the most frequent issues that homeowners encounter:

1. Burst Pipe

A burst pipe is one of the most severe plumbing emergencies. It can release gallons of water within hours, causing flooding and significant property damage. Signs of a burst pipe include:

• Reduced water flow.
• Visible water leaks or pooling.
• Water stains on walls or ceilings.
• Unpleasant odours caused by mould or mildew.

When dealing with a burst pipe, turn off your main water supply immediately and call an emergency plumber. Left untreated, it can result in costly repairs and long-term structural damage.

2. Blocked Drains

Blocked drains can occur in sinks, bathtubs, or showers, causing water to back up and making basic hygiene tasks nearly impossible. Common signs of a blocked drain include:

• Slow draining water.
• Foul smells coming from the drain.
• Gurgling sounds from pipes.

If you notice these signs, avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can harm your pipes. Instead, call a professional plumber to safely and effectively clear the blockage.

3. Blocked Toilet

A blocked toilet can be one of the most unpleasant and disruptive home emergencies. Common signs include:

• Water levels rising above normal.
• Difficulty flushing.

Turn off the water supply for the toilet (usually located at the base of the fixture) and use a plunger to try and clear minor blockages. For persistent issues, a professional plumbing service is necessary.

4. Hot Water System Malfunction

Few things are more shocking than stepping into a freezing shower unexpectedly. A malfunctioning hot water system can make showers, laundry, and dishwashing difficult or impossible. Some common hot water system problems include:

• Fluctuating temperatures that change from hot to cold.
• Low water pressure.
• Discoloured water or sediment build-up.
• Complete hot water system failure.

These issues often require professional plumbing servicing or replacement, as DIY fixes can worsen the situation.

5. Leaking Pipe

A dripping pipe or water pooling under your sink may seem minor, but even small leaks can signal larger problems. Over time, leaks can:

• Increase your water bills.
• Lead to mould growth.
• Cause water damage to walls, floors, and ceilings.

If you spot a persistent leak, call an emergency plumber to diagnose and fix the issue before it escalates.

6. Blocked Gutters

Clogged gutters might not seem like a plumbing issue at first glance. However, blocked gutters can lead to standing water that damages your roof, walls, and foundation. Over time, they may even cause water to enter your home, resulting in flooding. Regular gutter cleaning and maintenance can reduce the risk of this emergency.

7. Sewage System Backup

A sewage system backup is one of the most hazardous plumbing emergencies. It poses health risks as it can spread harmful bacteria and viruses. Warning signs of a sewage backup include:

• A foul smell near drains or in your yard.
• Gurgling sounds from the toilet or shower drain.
• Water pooling around basement drains.

If your sewage system backs up, don’t attempt to address it yourself. Call a professional emergency plumber immediately to avoid exposure to harmful contaminants.

Being Prepared for Emergency Plumbing Calls

Plumbing emergencies can strike anytime, but preparation can minimise their impact. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Know your home’s layout: Familiarise yourself with the location of your water shut-off valve and train all household members to find it.
• Keep emergency contacts ready: Save the phone number of a reliable emergency plumber in your area.
• Perform routine maintenance: Regularly check pipes, gutters, and hot water systems for leaks or wear and tear.
• Have an emergency water supply: Store bottled water for situations where your supply is temporarily cut off.

A proactive approach can go a long way in preventing and managing plumbing emergencies.

Why Choose Atypical Plumber for Emergency Plumbing Services?

When it comes to emergency plumbing, you need a reliable partner who acts fast and efficiently. Atypical Plumber offers:

• 24 Hour Plumber: We’re here whenever you need us, during the day or night or public holidays.
• Experienced and Licensed Plumbers: Our expert team can handle everything from blocked drains to burst pipes.
• Prompt Response: We value your time and aim to resolve issues swiftly. We will contact you usually within an hour of your initial contact and will guide you what to do before getting on site to give you peace of mind.
• Unmatched Customer Service: Your satisfaction and safety are our priorities.