When a plumbing problem strikes, it can be very disruptive to your life and work. It must be addressed immediately, whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a toilet that won’t stop running, or a sudden spike in your water bill.
Performing regular maintenance and being prepared for emergency plumbing will help you save money in the long run. Here are a few of the most common problems and ways to handle them:
Clogged Drains
Nothing like a clogged drain or toilet brings your household to a grinding halt. Even if the problem is minor, it’s essential to call an emergency plumber Overland Park immediately because a clogged drain left unresolved can cause water damage and present health hazards for your family.
You can prevent clogged drains by being careful about what goes down them and regularly using a plunger to clean your pipes. However, a professional can also help with this by using a drill, which is a long rod that snakes through your clogged pipe and removes the blockage.
A clogged sewer line is a more severe plumbing emergency than a clogged toilet or drain. If you’re experiencing a backup of sewage in your home, turn off the main water line and contact an emergency plumber Overland Park immediately. You should also avoid using chemical drain cleaners because they harm your pipes. Instead, try pouring baking soda followed by white vinegar down your drains. This creates a chemical reaction that can break up most clogs.
Burst Pipes
Pipes can burst in cold winter weather and, if left unchecked, can lead to severe water damage within the home. Whether the line is in your wall, under your sink, or on your home’s roof, a burst pipe is an emergency that requires immediate attention from a plumber to prevent further damage and mitigate existing damage.
If you suspect a leak, turn off your water at the main valve in your house to stop further damage. If you have any ice in your pipes, drain them using hot and warm faucets to reduce pressure and help melt the ice. If you hear rattling noises from your plumbing, this could also be a sign that your pipes are leaking and should be addressed immediately by a professional.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes can be just as disastrous as burst ones during cold weather. Frozen pipes can cause severe water damage to your home, usually happening at the worst possible time. They can also cause mold, and they may even rupture.
If you think you have frozen pipes, turn off your water immediately. You can do this by shutting off the water valve or turning off your home’s main water line. Also, open the faucets and fixtures to drain any water in them.
Then, apply heat to the area where the pipe is frozen. You can do this using an electronic heating pad, a hair dryer, or towels soaked in hot water. During the thawing process, it’s essential to keep your faucet open. Water and steam will be created during this process, which needs an opening to escape. This will help speed up the thawing process. However, frozen pipes can burst at any time, so you must call a plumber immediately.
Broken Fixtures
Plumbing problems often happen because of hair, food waste solids, and other small particles snagged on the drains or pipes. Clogs are more common here because of the more challenging water sourced from Kansas and Missouri, but they can also be caused by simple wear and tear on old piping systems. If you notice a sudden drop in water pressure or hot and cold fluctuations, it could mean your home pipes need to be replaced.
A licensed plumber will know how to find and fix any leaks or clogs that develop in your system. They will also be familiar with the local infrastructure and water supply, making them better equipped to diagnose issues and find long-term solutions for you.
Preventive maintenance of your kitchen and bathroom fixtures will help reduce damage and avoid costly plumbing emergencies. Choosing the right emergency plumber Overland Park will ensure you have a quality professional available to take your call day or night.
