Tips for Properly Handling Plumbing Emergencies
What do you do when you are faced with a plumbing emergency? Panic is usually the first thing that sets in and we somehow lose the ability to think straight. However, that is exactly the one thing and reaction that you must avoid at all costs. Acting quickly can save you from costly repairs and extensive damage to your home and personal property.
Running toilets, burst pipes, leaks in the plumbing system, and all other water-related plumbing emergencies can be disastrous, frustrating, and costly. Not only do they waste gallons of water and raise your water bill, but the damage to your home can be extensive and dangerous. Water damage not only ruins ceilings, floors, and furniture and fixtures but they can also spur the growth of mold in your home. Mold is extremely hazardous to your health and can even be fatal. Not to mention the fact of the cost involved in order to rid your home of mold and the temporary displacement of you and your loved ones when you have to leave your home due to the health risks involved. So if you are ever faced with this type of plumbing emergency, follow these simple but very important and effective steps.
It is imperative that all water flow in your house is stopped. Make sure you turn off all water flow to your home. It is quite difficult and close to impossible to get burst pipes and leaks fixed immediately but you can stop any further damage by closing off the source of water. Not only will you stop wasting gallons of water, but you can save your home from costly and extensive water damage and prevent the growth of mold.
It is extremely important that you find the main water shutoff valve as quickly as possible. Every home has a main valve that can be turned off and completely stave the flow of water throughout your entire home. This valve is usually located outside of your home and near the water meter box.
Then turn off each individual shut-off valve inside your home. Each plumbing fixture has a shut-off valve. Each and every bathroom, kitchen and laundry room have these valves located where the plumbing fixtures are installed. Check under all the sinks which are usually where they are located. The shutoff valves for toilets are located on the pipe in the back of the plumbing fixture. Although, you have switched off the main valve, this will stop any water left in the plumbing system from leaking any further.
Although these steps do not resolve the problem or issue you may have, they will deter any further damage to your home. This will give you the time you need to call a qualified professional plumber to evaluate and fix your plumbing system. Just remember the golden rule, do not panic. When plumbing emergencies occur stay calm, assess the situation, and immediately follow steps to temporarily resolve the problem. However, seek professional help as soon as possible in order to avoid additional damage to your home.