What is Considered a Plumbing Emergency?

Plumbing problems are always stressful, and they never come at a convenient time. So, it pays to know what is considered a plumbing emergency and what isn’t before you make a call about contacting emergency plumbing services in Rockaway, NJ. Even if the problem can’t wait until regular business hours, a reliable team like RDH Plumbing, Sewer, & Drain Specialist will still be able to help you 24 hours a day!

To determine whether or not you need an emergency plumber, survey the situation. Does the problem involve a huge water leak or sewage backup? Consider it an emergency.

Here are a few other common plumbing emergencies you may not want to leave to chance:

Gas Leak

A gas leak will require fast help from a licensed plumber for safety reasons. Installing a carbon monoxide detector is a great way to keep your family safe. Unlike other contaminants, you can’t smell carbon monoxide, and exposure could cause lasting health problems or be fatal.

Gas companies add a sulfur odor to help you identify a leak. So, if you suddenly smell rotten eggs or hear whistling near your gas supply, consider it an emergency. Turn off the gas valve, get everyone outside, and call a plumber immediately.

Sewage Backup

You may smell a sewage backup before you see it. However, it goes without saying that sewage backing up into your drains is a health hazard and a serious emergency situation. It’s not only unpleasant but also exposes you and your family to bacteria and other contaminants you might want to avoid.

A common cause of a backup is a large clog deep within the pipes. These clogs occur when anything other than toilet paper enters the plumbing system. Flushable wipes are often the culprit because, although the package says they are flushable, they easily clog the plumbing system.

If you want to keep the system clear, do not flush wipes, makeup removers, cotton balls, or any miscellaneous items down the toilet. The pipes are not meant to handle this detritus, and the next thing you know, you will have a plumbing emergency on your hands. More complicated sewage backup may go beyond a clogged pipe—tree roots cause major damage too.

Burst Pipe

When learning what is considered a plumbing emergency, keep in mind that a burst sewer pipe isn’t the only pipe emergency. Other burst pipes cause major water leaks, which can result in major structural damage without professional repair. For example, broken pipes might happen after a cold snap and go undetected for days or weeks.

Do you have a burst pipe? You might notice the following:

• Low water pressure
• Sudden mold presence
• Odors in the water
• An unusually high water bill

While a small leak, like a dripping faucet, is not an emergency, a bigger leak is always a cause for concern. Turn off your water main, and call a plumber.

Malfunctioning Water Heater

The sudden loss of hot water is an emergency, especially in a cold climate. Hot water is essential for personal hygiene, laundry, and washing dishes. So, if your hot water heater malfunctions, call an emergency plumber for service.

However, aging hot water heaters need service more often until the cost of repair outweighs replacing the unit. Don’t wait long; upgrading to a new hot water heater will lower your energy bills. It will also provide enough hot water for the whole family to have a hot shower every day.

Plumbing Problems That Aren’t Emergencies

There are a few plumbing problems that are inconvenient but do not require emergency service. You can call during normal business hours to schedule a service call for the following:

Clogged Toilets

One clogged toilet may inconvenience your family, but if you have another working toilet, you can wait until morning to call for service.

Slow Draining

Slow drains are a sign of a clog. Pouring chemical clog remover down the drain may help for a while, but you will need professional service eventually.

Drips

A dripping faucet can cost you big in wasted water if you ignore it. If it gets out of hand, it will cause extensive water damage, so don’t hesitate to call a plumber. However, it doesn’t warrant an emergency call.

Reliable Plumbers in Rockaway, NJ

Now you know a little more about what is considered a plumbing emergency, and it might save you money on an after-hours emergency repair bill.

Whatever you need, RDH Plumbing, Sewer, & Drain Specialist in Rockaway, NJ, handles all plumbing problems, from water leak repair to clogged drain removal. Call 908-772-8139 today to schedule service with our experts.

Author Bio:
Rob Hernandez

At RDH Plumbing, Sewer, and Drain Specialists, we will take care of all your plumbing needs. We want you to be comfortable in your home. We will take all the stress away. We take great pride in our work and make sure we keep your home clean and that you are well taken care of.