When it comes to plumbing emergencies, it’s essential to know the dos and don’ts. By following these simple tips, you can minimise the damage caused by a plumbing emergency and hopefully prevent it from happening again in the future.
Remember, always call a professional plumbing company, like Pipe Relining Cape Town, if you’re not sure what to do. Plumbing emergencies can be dangerous, and they should never be taken lightly.
With that being said, let’s take a look at some of the most important things to keep in mind during a plumbing emergency.
Do: Shut off the water supply
In the event of a plumbing emergency, it is crucial to shut off the water supply as quickly as possible. This will help to prevent further damage and minimise the risk of flooding. If the water is left on, it could cause the pipes to burst or leak, leading to costly repairs.
If water is gushing out from a broken pipe, for example, shutting off the water will help minimise the amount of wasted water. It will give you time to assess the situation and make a plan. With the water off, you’ll be able to assess the damage better and determine what needs to be done to fix it.
Shutting off the water will help to prevent injuries. If you’re dealing with a broken pipe, there’s a risk of being electrocuted if the water comes into contact with live electrical wires. By shutting off the water, you can avoid this danger.
So if you’re dealing with a plumbing emergency, be sure to shut off the water before taking any other action.
Do: Put a bucket under a leaky pipe to catch the drips
In a plumbing emergency, it’s important to take measures to prevent water damage. One way to do this is to put a bucket under a leaky pipe to catch the drips.
This will help to protect your floor, cabinetry and furniture from water damage. It will also give you time to call a plumbing company so they can conduct a leak detection and fix your leak. Taking this simple step could save you a massive amount of time and money in the long run.
Don’t: Use chemical drain cleaners on a clogged drain
Chemical drain cleaners may seem like an easy way to unclog a drain, but they can actually do more harm than good. In addition to being harsh on your pipes, these chemicals can also be dangerous if used incorrectly.
If you’re dealing with a clogged drain, you should call a professional plumber rather than trying to fix the problem yourself. Pipe Relining Cape Town has the tools and training necessary to quickly and safely clear and clean blocked drains. And while it may cost a bit more upfront, this will save you money in the long run by preventing damage to your plumbing system.
Do: Use a drain snake to remove a clog from a drain
A blocked shower drain can be a major inconvenience. It is essential to know how to deal with one if it happens. One of the most effective tools for removing a drain clog is a drain snake. Drain snakes are long, flexible rods that can be inserted into the drain to break up the blockages.
If you don’t have a drain snake, you can try using a plunger but with caution. You can also use blocked drain home remedies such as vinegar or baking soda. However, if the clog is severe, we would advise calling in the plumber. DIY drain cleaning can be a very messy, costly process loaded with complications.
Don’t: Try to fix a plumbing problem yourself if you’re not a trained professional
Blocked sewers and drain blockages are among the most common problems that plumbers are called out to fix. And while it may seem like a simple enough problem to fix, there are many reasons why you shouldn’t try to fix it yourself if you’re not a trained professional.
First of all, trying to fix a blocked sewer can be extremely dangerous. Raw sewage is highly toxic and can cause serious illness if it comes into contact with your skin.
Secondly, even if you manage to clear the blockage, there’s a good chance that you’ll end up causing more damage to the pipes in the process.
And finally, attempting to fix a plumbing problem yourself will likely void any warranty that you have on the property. So, unless you’re a trained professional, it’s best to leave plumbing problems to the experts.
Do: Call a professional plumber if you have a plumbing emergency
If you have a plumbing emergency, you must call a professional plumber as soon as possible. Plumbing emergencies can include burst pipes, blocked drains, and leaks.
While some plumbing emergencies can be fixed by the homeowner, others require the expertise of a professional. For example, burst pipes can cause extensive damage to your home and should be fixed by a plumber. Blocked drains can also be challenging to fix and can lead to flooding if not adequately addressed. Leaks, on the other hand, can sometimes be fixed by the homeowner. We highly recommend that these be checked by a professional plumber to ensure that they are not indicative of a more significant problem.
By calling a professional plumber, you can rest assured that your plumbing emergency will be resolved quickly and efficiently.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing a plumbing emergency, it is essential to take the necessary steps to protect your home. However, before you do anything, remember to call a professional plumbing company. Trying to fix the problem yourself could lead to further damage and even more expensive repairs.
Pipe Relining Cape Town has been providing quality plumbing services in Cape Town for over 10 years. We have the experience and expertise needed to handle any plumbing emergency, big or small. Contact us today for all your plumbing needs!