A dripping faucet, a slow-moving drain, or a single stopped-up toilet in a multi-bathroom home are plumbing problems that are pesky, but not quite urgent. They’re not exactly comfortable, but come Monday, your trusty Blue Dot plumber can fix them up fast.
But some plumbing problems just can’t wait for regular business hours!
Here are three major plumbing emergencies that call for immediate attention:
#1: A main water line burst
Luckily, a main water line burst isn’t an everyday issue. But if it happens to you, you’ll want to call your emergency plumber ASAP.
A water line burst is typically caused by one of a few factors: Old, corroded pipes that finally succumbed to high water pressure, a Topeka deep freeze, or major damage from tree roots or heavy equipment rolling over your line. If you live in an area where the water contains high levels of chlorine, that can also damage your water supply line and trigger a home flood.
If the main water line supplying your home bursts, shut off your water supply and call an emergency plumber the moment you notice flooding. A broken water line can cause significant damage to your home if not addressed quickly and correctly. And not only does it create a huge mess, all that excess moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth inside your walls and furniture—creating a serious health hazard.
Repairing a main supply line may require special tools and digging equipment. But when you explain the problem, your emergency plumber will make sure they bring the right repair and replacement parts to minimize water damage and stop the leak as soon as possible. They’ll even look for hidden leaks caused by the excess pressure, and can show you how to prevent main line leaks in the future.
#2: A natural gas leak
While your emergency plumber shouldn’t be the first person you call in the event of a gas leak, they should be pretty high on your list!
Natural gas is an invisible, odorless gas that may leak from your water heater, home appliances, or furnace. Because natural gas is dangerous to inhale and extremely combustible, a sulfuric odorant that smells like rotten eggs is added before the gas reaches your home. And that unmistakable stench is the telltale sign of a serious problem.
If you smell rotten eggs:
#3: A sewer line or septic system backup
A single slow-draining toilet or clogged drain may not be cause for immediate alarm (though you should schedule your go-to plumber as soon as reasonably possible). But if water is actively backing up into your toilet and sinks, it’s time to call an emergency plumber!
Multiple overflowing drains are a sign of a seriously clogged sewer line or septic tank, and pose a major health hazard to your home and family. If wastewater accumulates in your home, the bacteria and foul odors can leave a lasting impression on your favorite spaces. And if left untreated, the added pressure on your drain lines can create further leaks and damage.
Your emergency plumber will use specialized tools to locate the source of the clog, then resolve it quickly. They may use a plumbing snake or auger to break up the obstruction, or high-pressure water jets if tree roots or heavy debris are blocking your drainage. In some cases, they may reroute your drain lines around the obstruction or weak points using new pipes.
Regardless of the course of action, this is another plumbing problem best left to the pros!
Here in Topeka, Blue Dot’s emergency plumbers are on call 24/7
From burst pipes and flooded floors to faulty faucets and clogged drains, Blue Dot can handle whatever your home throws at you.
Call 785-272-1633 or request service to bring in the experts!
Back to BlogOur licensed plumbers, electricians, HVAC experts, and friendly team always answer the call. You can schedule service online or ask a question using the contact form below or by calling 785-272-1633.
