When Should I Call an Emergency Plumber?

Is there some cause for concern, but you’re afraid to call a plumber in a panic, only to find it’s not so serious? In any case, don’t wait. Even small plumbing issues can quickly escalate into thousands of dollars in repairs. Dripping faucets, running toilets, and even watery sounds from uncertain sources may be causing damage, or at least costing you money. On average, household leaks waste about 10,000 gallons, per home, every year.

The Top 7 Signs Emergency Plumber 

1. Water Leak

If you see water leaking, call a plumber. But oftentimes, leaks aren’t so obvious. They don’t make noticeable sounds and they’re hidden behind walls and above ceilings. Call for help whenever there are water stains, bulging wallpaper/paint/drywall, sagging ceilings, or signs of mold and mildew. Leaking water can damage furnishings and structural components. It can also be a fire risk if it contacts electrical wiring.

2. Low Water Pressure

Reduced water pressure can make it hard to clean dishes, shower, or wash your hands. It’s a sign pipes have buildup or are almost totally blocked. There are various ways to address the issue, but the best choice is to call a plumber who can deal with blocked, cracked, or broken pipes. The same goes if you don’t have any water at all. 

3. No Hot Water

If the hot water quits in the middle of a shower, you may have a defective water heater. This is especially the case if there’s less and less hot water each time. Calling for help sooner can mean the difference between a minor repair and something more expensive, including having to replace the hot water heater prematurely.

4. Overflowing Toilet

This can not only cause water damage. It may also contaminate your home with waste, cause bacteria to grow, and lead to respiratory issues and diseases. Trying to unclog the toilet yourself may cause more damage. An overflow can happen due to a clogged pipe, damaged float valve, or other issues. Whatever the case, turn off the toilet’s water valve and call a plumber.

5. Sewage Backup

When sewage starts to back up, you may not see it, but can certainly smell it. A possible sign of a sewer problem is when you use one drain, and water backs up another. For example, you might find water in a different drain when you take a shower, or the kitchen sink may fill up when the toilet is flushed. Sewage not only releases toxic wastewater, but also airborne contaminants, so you need an emergency plumber right away.

6. Gas Leak

 A plumber is trained and equipped to fix a gas leak. Natural gas has no odor of its own, but a chemical is added so a leak can be detected via a sulfur smell. If your home smells like rotten eggs, you hear a hissing or whistling sound near a gas pipe or see a cloud around one, call for help. Exposure to natural gas can cause severe health effects and death. But even before then, symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nosebleeds, eye irritation, difficulty breathing, skin irritation, or fatigue may occur. 

7. Frozen Pipe

In winter, a water pipe can freeze. Since frozen water expands, it can push the pipe so much that it cracks and bursts. A frozen pipe often prevents water from coming out of a faucet or showerhead when you turn it on. Turn the faucet off and contact a local plumber.

Do I Always Need a Plumber in the Middle of the Night?

You may be able to wait until the workday. A small drip from the faucet, clogged toilet that’s cleared with a plunger, or slow drainage may not necessitate an overnight service call. Also, consider whether you can avoid using the affected plumbing until morning. If you can turn the fixture off or the issue isn’t likely to cause immediate damage, you can probably go back to sleep. But if you’re without water and it’s extremely hot or extremely cold outside, the health risks outweigh waiting to call.