Clean, running water is something most people take for granted until a Plumbing in Debary FL strikes. Property managers can minimize the damage and costs with regular inspections and maintenance.
But how do you know when it’s an emergency? Here are some indicators to watch for:.
Burst Pipes
Burst pipes are one of the most costly plumbing problems a homeowner can face. Not only can it cause major water damage to your home but it can also leave you without a water supply for days. While you can’t completely prevent pipe bursts, there are some things you can do to minimize the damage and speed up the repair process.
Some indicators that a pipe is about to burst include puddles around the house, continuous water leaking after turning on your appliances or a sudden increase in your utility bills. By heeding these warning signs and calling a plumber right away, you can avoid a full-blown emergency situation.
If you’re unlucky enough to have a burst pipe at 2am on the weekend, it can be hard to find a professional plumber willing to come out and help. However, there are some steps you can take to limit the damage and keep your water flowing until a pro can arrive.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes can be a serious problem that requires Plumbing in Debary FL help. If left untreated, they can burst and lead to flooding and serious water damage. They can also cause mold and mildew to grow, which can be very hazardous to your health.
The first sign of frozen pipes is usually a lack of water pressure or a complete stoppage of water flow at a specific fixture. You may also see a wet spot or a stain on your ceiling or wall.
When you find a frozen pipe, turn off the water at your main shut-off valve, which should be located in your home’s basement or crawl space. Then, apply heat to the frozen section of pipe. You can use a heating pad, electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or towels soaked in hot water. NEVER use a torch or open flame on a frozen pipe as this can cause electrocution.
Frozen Water Heater
The availability of clean, flowing water is something many homeowners take for granted until a problem occurs. Unfortunately, some problems are more serious than others and may require a skilled plumber to resolve.
During cold weather it is common for water lines to freeze and burst. If this happens you should shut off the main water supply valve. This will minimize damage until the frozen line thaws.
You should also know where your home’s emergency shut off is so that you can turn it off if necessary. It is a good idea to have a recirculation system in your home that will pump hot water through the pipes so that they don’t freeze during cold weather.
To determine if you have a frozen water heater open all the faucets in your house and see if any are flowing. If not, you should trace the water lines to and from the heater. This can be done by feeling the lines; if they are frozen you will feel an area that is cooler than other areas of the pipe. You can thaw the frozen section of the pipe using various electrical methods such as a hair dryer, heat gun or heating pad on low.
Clogged Drains
Your toilets, showers, sinks and tubs drain into sewer lines that run to your septic system or the city main. If those lines become clogged, wastewater backs up into your home. This is considered an emergency plumbing situation because it can cause significant water damage in a short amount of time and can pose a health risk as well.
The first thing you should do is shut off the water at your home’s main valve. This will prevent accidental usage — like turning on a dishwasher or washing machine — from pushing your clog even further down the pipe.
Before calling an emergency plumber, try using a homemade drain opener to see if you can break up the clog yourself. Avoid sticking objects in the drain and using dangerous chemicals, as these can exacerbate your problem or cause damage to your pipes. Mix together equal parts of baking soda and vinegar to create a bubbling mixture that can help break up blockages.
