Knowing when to call an emergency plumber is essential for a plumbing problem. Some issues can wait until regular business hours, while others must be addressed immediately.
Often, these issues are more severe than you might think. They can cause damage to your home and even your health.
Water Pressure Drops
When water pressure drops, it’s a sign that something is wrong with the plumbing system. This problem can be caused by internal factors, like a clogged pipe or a broken pressure regulator, and external ones, such as problems with the municipal water supply.
Homeowners should check how many plumbing fixtures are experiencing low water pressure. It will help them determine whether a single faucet is having trouble or a widespread issue.
There could be a simple fix if the problem affects only one fixture. However, if the problem affects every institution throughout your house, it’s time to call a professional plumber.
Water Bill Increases
A sudden rise in your water bill is one of the most prominent indicators that you want emergency plumbing repair. It may be due to a change in your water usage habits or an issue with your plumbing system.
A leaky pipe in one of your home’s interior walls is the most frequent reason for a sudden spike in your water bill. Leaks can waste significant water, so fixing them as soon as possible is crucial.
Other reasons your water bill might be higher include changing seasons or seasonal activities like running sprinklers, filling swimming pools, and taking frequent showers. Regardless of the reason, you should be aware that this will only lead to high water bills in the long run.
Smells Like Sewage
If your home smells like sewer, you may have a severe plumbing issue requiring immediate attention. It can be a sign of a broken pipe, a sewer line that needs to be fixed, or a malfunctioning sump pump.
If you need help determining where the odor is coming from, walk around your property. Look for areas where you can sniff and note if the fragrance strengthens in specific locations.
Most smelly drains are caused by one of four things: biofilm, clogged drains, dry P-traps, or leaking pipes. If you have these issues, they’re easy to fix.
Slow Drainage
If you notice your sink, bathtub, or shower drains slowly, it’s not normal. It can signify a more significant plumbing issue, such as a mainline blockage or tree root intrusion.
Usually, this problem is caused by a buildup of hair and soap that clogs the stopper. Using a paper towel to clean off the residue will help.
It is also a sign that you should call a professional plumber to resolve the problem and keep your drains flowing.
Another common sign of a plumbing problem is gurgling noises when water runs down your drain pipes. It happens because wastewater bumps against any obstruction inside the line, displacing air to create the sounds.
Clogged Drains
While clogged drains aren’t something anyone looks forward to, they can be an early warning sign of a plumbing problem that could become an emergency. A clogged drain can result in everything from slow drainage to water pressure drops, sewage backups, and even water damage.
A common clog in drain pipes occurs when waste from grease, hair, soap scum, and other items bind to the walls of your pipes. Once a drain becomes clogged, it becomes more complex and more challenging for waste to move through.
When this happens, the drain will start to drain slower and produce foul odors. These signs indicate that you need emergency plumbing repair to fix the clog.
