It’s not a good sign when your plumbing system behaves abnormally. However, some problems are more serious than others. When you’re facing a plumbing emergency at your home in St. George, UT, you need fast help from a team you can trust. Thompson Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical offers 24/7 emergency assistance to help minimize damage and restore your system to working order.
What’s a Plumbing Emergency?
It can sometimes be challenging to distinguish between a relatively minor problem and one that requires prompt attention. A plumbing emergency poses an immediate, urgent risk to your home, safety, and well-being. For example, a toilet that runs but still functions is frustrating but not an emergency. A sewer backup that sends wastewater into your home through your drains is a serious situation.
Examples of Plumbing Emergencies
There are several types of plumbing situations that count as true emergencies, and a burst pipe is one of them. St. George’s average January low is slightly below 30 degrees, which unfortunately makes burst pipes a common scenario in the area. Sewage backups, overflowing toilets, and major leaks are a few other types of plumbing emergencies. A lack of hot water is another problem, as this could indicate an issue with your water heater.
A natural gas leak is also an issue that a licensed plumber can address. Signs you may have a gas leak in your home include a rotten egg odor, a hissing sound, and dying plants. Pay attention to physical indicators, such as blurry vision, nausea, headaches, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect a gas leak, don’t attempt to locate the source. Instead, vacate your home, walk to a safe distance, then contact emergency services, followed by Thompson Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical. In the process of leaving, don’t remove plugs, start your car, light a cigarette, or use anything electrical.
Performing DIY Plumbing Repairs
Many homeowners attempt plumbing repairs in an effort to save money. However, this could result in a serious injury and may further damage the system. For example, using a chemical drain cleaner is often a go-to solution for many people who want to remove blockages. However, these products usually aren’t effective for clearing major clogs. Additionally, they could cause problems like pipe corrosion, especially in pipes that are already old or vulnerable, and they can release toxic fumes.
Attempting to fix a plumbing problem may also void the manufacturer’s warranty. This could mean paying for future repairs on your own. These warranties usually stipulate that only licensed plumbers can perform these tasks.
When to Call a Plumber
If you think you’re experiencing a plumbing emergency, call Thompson Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical immediately. We can advise you if it’s an urgent situation. If it is, our plumbers will provide you with fast assistance thanks to our 24/7 emergency service.
What Happens If I Delay Fixing a Plumbing Problem?
Emergency plumbing problems don’t improve on their own. Delaying professional assistance could cause the issue to worsen. For example, a major plumbing leak seems easy enough to delay. However, depending on the circumstances, it could lead to a burst pipe. Addressing plumbing problems quickly prevents them from developing into more severe and expensive issues.
What to Do When a Water-Involved Plumbing Emergency Occurs
If you experience a water-involved plumbing emergency as opposed to a gas leak, there are several steps you can take. Acting promptly minimizes damage and helps keep you safe. It’s important to stop the flow of water, so shut off the valve connected to the fixture experiencing the problem. For instance, if the toilet is overflowing, shut off the valve behind it. Be careful where you walk to avoid slipping on the water and falling.
During a plumbing emergency, turn the power off to that area at the electrical panel to prevent electrical shocks or fire. Use items like towels or buckets to stop the spread of water. You should also call Thompson Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical immediately so our plumbers can assess the situation.
Preparing for a Plumbing Emergency
Keep emergency plumbing supplies easily accessible so they’re available if you need them. Items to have on hand include a toilet plunger, a sink plunger, and heavy towels or rags you wouldn’t mind throwing away. Have our number in your phone and on your fridge so you can contact us quickly.
Don’t struggle with severe plumbing problems on your own. Thompson Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical in St. George, UT, offers 24/7 emergency assistance. Call us if you have an urgent situation.
