5 Plumbing Issues that Need Emergency Repair Services

Dealing with problems with your plumbing system – be it for residential or commercial properties – can cause major headaches for anyone. It’s a hassle that people would rather put off, but while a leaky faucet can go unaddressed for some time, there are plumbing issues that will wreak havoc in devastating ways as soon as they occur.  Unfortunately, not all plumbing emergencies are easy to spot. These are the type of damages that can cause floods and compromise the building’s structural integrity, so it helps to know what kind of issues deserve urgency and an immediate response from professional plumbers.  With that in mind, the list below should give a rundown on some of the most common plumbing emergencies that should prompt you to put experts on speed dial. 

Burst Pipes 

When your pipes suddenly burst open, it can be one of the most destructive plumbing disasters since it can waste up to four to eight gallons of water per minute, amassing up to 100 gallons of water within the first eight hours. This emphasizes the importance of a timely repair, though you will need to quickly shut down your water supply while waiting for professionals to arrive on your doorstep.  Beyond wasting precious water, it can also flood your building and destroy everything in its wake, all of which can burn holes in your pocket by the end of it all. The only silver lining is that there are emergency plumbing repair services that are not only well-equipped to handle the situation, but also address other water damage issues that come with a burst pipe. 

Frozen Pipes 

During the colder months, the biting wind can quickly freeze up your pipes. All it takes is one frozen pipe to affect the rest of your plumbing system, causing it to expand and break the rest of your water line. That’s why winter-proofing your property is a must since fixing ruptured pipes can already eat up a whopping $5,000 or more.  Take a closer look at the pipes set around the garages, attics, and basements as these unheated spaces are vulnerable to icy temperatures. Not all cold snaps need immediate repair, though one frozen pipe is a tell-tale sign that there’s trouble ahead. If you notice any odd smells, have no running water and notice an ice blockage forming even in just one section of the pipe, be sure to call emergency plumbers and turn off the main valve while waiting. 

Overflowing Toilet 

A toilet that overflows can cause panic to anyone who spots it, making it one of the easiest plumbing emergencies to notice. While most would find the wet mess disgusting, it can be just as damaging to your property since it can negatively impact the building’s structural integrity in more ways than one.  After calling plumbing repair services, you can minimize the damages by shutting down the water valve found at the bottom side of the toiler. While some seasoned DIY-ers can fix it using any household plunger, a toiler that overflows at an alarming rate will require the help of a professional plumber.  Fixing an overflowing toilet doesn’t just involve stopping the water from spilling out, but it also includes finding the source of the problem and removing any built-up debris that is causing the bottleneck to your entire plumbing system. 

Sump Pump Failure

Just as the moniker suggests, the sump pump works by leading groundwater away from the building’s foundation. When it experiences a mechanical failure, it will cause it to shut down and can lead to one of the most expensive plumbing problems that fall second to burst pipes.  This is because the water damage can flood the basement at a rapid rate, especially for homes without a sump pump backup. Always call emergency services first before doing anything else, and then shut down the electrical system to remove any hazards on a wet surface. Professional plumbers will identify the root of the problem and also pump out any extra water floating in your basement, so sit tight, keep a cool head, and allow the experts to take the lead. 

Sewer Backups 

When you notice foul-smelling water overflowing from your drains, then the culprit may be due to sewer backups. Some tell-tale signs that suggest it comes from the sewer include hearing gurgling sounds from the toilers, along with slow-moving water throughout the building.  While it seems like an inconvenience more than anything, a sewer backup can quickly create property damage and become a health hazard too, so it needs emergency plumbing repairs as soon as you notice the issue. 

The Bottom Line: The Importance of Regular Plumbing Maintenance to Prevent Emergency Issues 

Not all plumbing emergencies look urgent at first glance, that’s why it’s important to brush up on some red flags that deserve immediate attention from a professional contractor in your area. Letting them take the backseat of your priorities will only result in costlier consequences, such as extensive damages to your property and even health.  The list above explores some of the common plumbing catastrophes you should address before they spiral out of control. Fortunately, there are emergency plumbers who can solve your problem anytime, whether it’s to unclog your toiler at the dead of the night or put a stop to your burst pipes before the break of dawn. 

Why Choose Our Plumbing Contractors in San Diego?

Whether you need seasonal maintenance or emergency plumbing repair services for residential and commercial buildings on the West Coast, we’re one of the most top-rated commercial plumbing companies in San Diego you can trust. Get in touch with us today at (858) 538-6025 and see what we can do to flush your problems down the drain – from leak detection, water heater installation, sewer piping, and more. With our 24 hour services, dealing with any plumbing disaster has never been so easy!