Even if you consider yourself a handy DIY homeowner, there are times when it’s best to call in the professionals. Not every problem is an emergency, and attempting detailed plumbing repairs without proper experience can turn an ordinary inconvenience into a costly disaster. Connect with Emergency Plumbing Aurora CO for reliable help.

Familiarizing yourself with basic plumbing tips and tricks can help you recognize when to call in the pros. Knowing how to shut off your water supply and contain a leak or clog temporarily can also minimize damage until the plumber arrives. 

There are few things more frustrating than a clogged toilet. You can try some preventative measures like pouring enzymatic cleaner down the drains, but sometimes it’s just too late and you need to call in a professional. A clogged toilet is often a sign of damaged pipes, which can cause major problems and lead to costly repairs.

If you’re not sure whether your clogged toilet is an emergency situation, check to see if other drains in your home are functioning properly. Your sink and tub drains usually flow into the same sewer line as your toilet, so if they are flowing freely, it’s likely that your clog is only in your toilet’s trap.

Another common reason for a clogged toilet is flushing non-flushable items down the drain. Wipes, cotton balls, and other disposable items aren’t designed to be flushed down the toilet and don’t break down as easily as toilet paper. Try to keep your bathroom counters as clean as possible to avoid accidentally putting these types of items down the drain.

A clogged toilet can also be caused by a blocked or damaged sewage vent. These vents allow fresh air to enter your plumbing system as it moves waste through the pipes, and keeping them clear is important for preventing sewer gasses from entering your home. If you think your vent may be blocked, it’s best to call in a professional plumber rather than trying to clean the vent yourself, as this could lead to further damage and serious health risks.

You can also consider a clogged toilet an emergency situation if it’s your only working toilet and you can’t use it to go to the bathroom. If this is the case, be sure to turn off your water at the main valve, which is typically located behind or near the toilet, and then contact a plumber immediately.

You can often avoid a clogged toilet by making sure you only flush human waste and toilet paper down the drain. Also, a regular pour of an enzymatic drain cleaner can help to keep your pipes clear.

Leaking Faucets

When a leaking faucet is left untreated, it can lead to expensive water bills and property damage. It may also be a sign of other problems within your home’s plumbing system, such as corrosion or faulty valves. The first step in fixing a leaky faucet is turning off the water supply. This can usually be done by turning the valve located under the sink, or by locating and turning off your home’s main water supply valve. Once the water is turned off, you can proceed to removing the faucet and replacing any parts that are leaking or worn out.

Most leaking faucets are caused by worn-out or damaged parts, such as O-rings and gaskets, that eventually wear out due to constant friction against other components within the faucet. There are also many different types of faucets, and each one has its own set of possible causes of leaking. For instance, a leaky spout might be caused by a loose washer that rests against the valve seat or by a broken inlet or outlet seal. A leaking faucet handle or knob can be caused by the adjusting ring or packing nut, and a dripping shower head can often be a result of a loose or worn-out washer or sleeve.

Leaking faucets waste gallons of water every year, and even small drips can add up to high water bills. In addition, the incessant drip of a leaking faucet can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew to grow, which can pose serious health risks for home occupants, especially those with respiratory issues or allergies.

If a leaky faucet isn’t fixed, it can lead to wood rot and other costly water damage in your home. This is why it’s so important to contact a plumber as soon as you notice any signs of a leaky faucet. Not only will they be able to fix the problem before it gets out of hand, but they can also offer valuable advice on how to maintain your faucets and prevent future leaks.

A dripping faucet may seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can quickly turn into a major financial headache. The continuous drip of a leaking faucet can cause your water bill to skyrocket, and the damage it causes to your home’s structure and contents is costly to repair. Hiring a professional plumber to address the issue right away will save you money and ensure that your home’s plumbing is in good working order.

Sewer Backups

Sewer backups are not just messy and inconvenient, they can also be a health hazard. Raw sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses and germs that can cause illness in people who come into contact with it. If you are experiencing a sewer backup, it’s important to contact a plumber right away to mitigate the issue and protect your home.

One of the biggest signs of a sewer backup is when multiple drains are affected. Toilets, sinks and tubs will not flush and will instead back up with sewage. If you notice this, shut off the water main in your house and call a plumber immediately. A plumber will be able to determine whether the problem is in your own private sewer line or in the city’s main. In most cases, a clog caused by toilet paper, hair, soap scum or grease is to blame.

A sewage backup can be dangerous, especially if it affects your basement or other low-lying areas of your home. Avoid entering these areas and ensure that your family members wear rubber gloves and face masks when cleaning up. It is also important to wash your hands after using the toilet and before eating, and to avoid touching any contaminated surfaces.

If you do experience a sewage backup, turn off any electrical appliances in the affected area and open windows to ventilate the space. It is also a good idea to dispose of any items that have been exposed to sewage, and to keep receipts for any repairs or replacement costs.

Depending on the severity of the issue, your insurer may be able to cover some or all of the cost of emergency plumbing. Speak with an RBC insurance advisor to learn more about sewer backup coverage and to get a free quote. *All claims are subject to underwriting and approval. Coverage is only available to those who meet eligibility requirements. Read the terms and conditions. Coverage applies to the insured property only and is not extended to business interruption or personal property. Additional exclusions and limitations apply. See the policy for complete details.

Frozen Pipes

When water freezes in pipes, it expands and puts pressure on the pipe. This can cause the pipe to crack or burst, leading to major water damage. It’s also very expensive to deal with because you will have to pay for the cost of emergency plumbing services, as well as repair and replacement costs for your water-logged possessions.

The best way to prevent frozen pipes is to take some precautionary measures before the cold weather sets in. This includes making sure that all your pipes are properly insulated, especially those in unheated areas like the attic or garage, and by leaving cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warm air to circulate. It’s also a good idea to let your faucets drip slightly, as moving water is less likely to freeze than standing water.

Another warning sign that your pipes may be frozen is if you turn on the faucet and only a trickle comes out. If you notice this, shut off the water supply and call an emergency plumber as soon as possible.

Before you call, be prepared to describe the symptoms. The plumber will need to know where the frozen pipe is located, whether it’s in your home or in a crawl space. He’ll need to know the size of the affected pipe, as well as where it is in relation to other nearby pipes. It’s also a good idea for you to walk around your home and be on the lookout for any water damage. Damp drywall, ceiling rings and sagging floors are all signs of water damage caused by burst pipes.

Frozen pipes need to be thawed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage to your property and health problems for you and your family. To thaw them, you can try heating pads or using a heat lamp. Wrapping the pipe in a towel soaked in hot water can also help. However, drastic temperature changes can cause the pipe to burst, so it’s important to call a professional emergency plumber as soon as you discover the problem.

Frozen pipes are a serious problem that can lead to flooding, mold growth and structural damage to your home. By being aware of the warning signs and prevention methods, you can keep your pipes in good condition all year round.