How to Avoid Unnecessary Emergency Plumbing Repairs

Hello World!  Welcome Friends!  No one wants to wake up to a spurting faucet or a flooded basement in the morning. Clogged drains, backed-up sewers and pipe leaks behind your walls are all problems that can result in costly repairs to your plumbing as well as your walls, floors, insulation and furniture. While emergency plumbing repairs are sometimes needed due to unforeseen circumstances, there are a few simple tips you can follow to limit the need for these services as much as possible.

Locate the Main Shutoff Valve

Every house has a main shutoff valve that controls all of the water supply in the house. When it is turned off, no faucets will be able to run. If you do experience a leak, you will be able to stop much damage by quickly shutting off this valve. In homes with basements, the shutoff valve typically comes up out of the concrete floor. In homes without basements, the shutoff valve is often located in the utility room or closet. Keep in mind that every toilet also has its own shutoff valve.

Use the Right Products

While you may be tempted to use powerful chemicals to clear out slow or clogged drains, be aware that these chemicals may corrode and compromise pipes over time. Of course, it is always wise to stay on top of slow drains because this can indicate a real problem. However, opt for a biological cleaner that can open drains without dangerous chemicals, or choose Plumbers Irving TX, such as The Pink Plumber, for regular drain cleaning. Additionally, be aware of what you put down your sinks. Never put grease down your kitchen sink, and do not put very fibrous or very hard items down your garbage disposal. Use hair catchers in the bathroom, and never flush feminine hygiene products. These little things can add up to huge clogs over time.

Watch for Problem Signs

Keep your eyes and ears open for new or worsening problems in your plumbing. Slowed drains and gurgling noises can indicate clogged pipes. If all of your drains begin slowing simultaneously, this could indicate a distressing problem with your main sewer line, which should be cleaned out as soon as possible. Be aware of suddenly decreased water pressure, which could indicate a leak somewhere in your pipes. If you live where winter temperatures go below freezing, make sure that pipes leading outside are well insulated.

Request Annual Checkups

Regular maintenance will allow plumbing professionals to discover small problems before they become emergencies. Your local plumber should check all of your pipes, drains and faucets. They will check for leaking, slow water flow from faucets or drains, poor toilet running and even problems with your dishwasher or washing machine water hookups. They should also check your outdoor faucets for damage from the elements. Hot sun or freezing temperatures especially can damage plastic or metal fixtures outdoors.

Plumbing emergencies are often avoidable when you take steps to maintain your pipes, faucets and drains properly throughout the year. However, should you need an emergency plumbing service, make sure you have a local company that offers 24/7 service in your list of contacts. When a plumbing emergency does happen, you can decrease the amount and cost of damage by attending to it immediately.

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