What To Do In An Emergency Plumbing Situation

Unfortunately, most of us have experienced the dreaded unexpected plumbing issue. It’s never anticipated or fun, so to avoid crisis mode, here are some tips to prepare yourself in the next plumbing catastrophe. 

Frozen Pipes 

To avoid frozen pipes, run your faucets at a trickle when the temperature drops below freezing.  

If you end up with frozen pipes and your water will no longer run to a faucet or all your faucets, close the main shutoff valve to your home to as soon as possible. This will help prevent the pipe(s) from splitting or braking. Then barely turn on all the faucets and keep the water running at a constant slow drip. Never use any type of chemically flammable properties or an open flame to try to dethaw your pipes as thermal water expansion can cause your pipes to burst.  

Clogged Toilet or Drain 

Clogged toilets and drains are one of the most common plumbing problems. If you’re experiencing a clogged toilet, turn off the water valve on the back of the toilet and grab a plunger. Plunge the toilet numerous times and attempt to re-flush. If the clog persists, try using a drain snake. If the plumbing problem persists, contact a professional plumber. 

If you are experiencing a clog in the drain, remove any type of guard from the drain and clean out any surface buildup or debris like hair, food particles, etc. Once the initial buildup is removed, use a drain snake to get any buildup that is deeper in the pipe. If you are still experiencing slow drainage or the clog persists, call a local plumber. Be very cautious of using any chemicals on your pipes, especially if you are in the historic district or an older part of town. Chemicals can erode pipes leading to a bigger plumbing issue.  

Burst Pipes 

If your pipes burst, locate and turn off the main shutoff valve to your home. This will stop all water supply to your home’s fixtures and stop the flooding coming from the broken pipe. Once the main water valve has been turned off, turn on the cold-water taps to drain the remaining water and steam that is trapped in the pipes. Once you’ve controlled the situation, call a plumber to repair or replace your pipes.  

Failing Water Heater 

If your water heater is failing, it could be due to problems with the electrical connections or the gas line. Although this type of problem causes additional stress because you can’t bathe, cook or clean, it is pertinent to call a professional to repair or replace your water heater.  

Leaky Plumbing Fixture  

Slow drips can lead to a big plumbing issue quickly. If you experience a leaky fixture – fast or slow – find the shutoff valve that’s specific to the leaky fixture. Once the water is turned off, check the fixture’s tap for any buildup and clear out all debris, hair, soap scum, or food particles. Often, the buildup of daily use is the common obstruction that leads to causing overflow in the pipes. If the leak persists, call a local plumber to evaluate and fix the leak.  

Damaged Washer Drain or Hose 

If your washing machine’s drain or hose is damaged, you can experience flooding throughout your home. Note that using too much or the wrong type of detergent can also cause water damage. Also note that running a high-efficiency machine for too long can cause flooding throughout your home and water damage. Using too much or the wrong laundry detergent can also cause water damage. If you experience an overflow of soapsuds, open the floor drain or call the professionals.  

Broken Main Water Line 

If the main water line that connects to your house clogs or breaks, contact a plumbing expert as soon as possible. Damage that occurs in the main water line can cause a rise in pressure that can lead to flooding in your home’s foundation.  

Broken Main Sewer Line 

If the local sewer line that connects to your house corrodes, breaks or clogs you might notice uneven toilet water levels. It could also cause clogged drains, wall stains, or an overwatered lawn that stinks. If you experience any of these warning signs, call a local plumber for emergency help. Overlooked main sewage line damage can lead to sewage flooding in and around your house.  

Gas Leak

If you smell gas, evacuate your house immediately. Gas leaks are extremely toxic and dangerous to humans and animals. This is not a do-it-yourself repair. Once you’re in a safe area outside, call an emergency plumber and the gas company. Under professional guidance, the gas meter will turn off at the control valve. 

To minimize plumbing emergencies and damage, we recommend regular maintenance. Give us a call to setup a routine plumbing maintenance appointment and reduce the chance of ending up in an emergency situation. For maintenance service in Santa Fe call 505.988.HOME. For service in Taos call 575.770.8434.