5 common emergency plumbing issues, and what you should do
Nobody likes the word ‘’emergency’’ when we think about plumbing issues in our home. Not only because of the potential health risks that it might present, but also because it can cost an arm and a leg!
Let’s quickly run through 5 common emergencies that we frequently come across, and how you can potentially stop the issue from worsening before your plumber arrives. Or, alternatively, what you should do.
1. Burst/ruptured pipes
Ruptured pipes are a serious issue, and they can let out out countless gallons of water in a very short period of time. They generally burst due to a water pressure build-up in the joint of the pipe itself. Possible warning signs of this may include a reduction in water flow, or even damaged/twisted walls.
If you suspect a pipe is burst, first thing you’ll want to do is turn off the main water supply. In Australia, this is usually located at the front of the property. Once it’s definitely turned off, you can then proceed to run the taps and flush the toilet (or toilets if you’re a bit flush). This will clear any excess water from the pipes.
If it’s possible to identify where the burst pipe is located before your plumber gets there, then great. This will save them some time.
2. Toilet leak/overflowing toilet
I think an out-of-control, overflowing toilet would cause most of us to, well – panic! Firstly, you’ll want establish if it’s definitely the toilet that’s leaking? If so, you might simply need to turn off the small tap located under the water line behind the toilet, which will at least stop it for now.
If this doesn’t work, turn off the main water supply. This is usually located at the front of the property, or possibly at the side. If this still doesn’t work, you may have a more serious sewerage issue, at which point you’ll definitely want to call your plumber… if you hadn’t already done so.
3. Gas leaks
Probably the most serious thing of all, are gas leaks. When a small leak can cause carbon monoxide poisoning in people and animals, it’s not to be taken lightly. If you suspect you have a gas leak call a professional immediately and evacuate the area.
Whilst gas leaks don’t always have a smell or show physical signs, here are a couple of potential warning signs:
A smell of sulphur or rotten eggs
A ‘hissing’ or whistling sound near a gas line
A white cloud (or dust cloud) is visible near a gas line
A damaged gas pipe
Dead house plants
An unexplainable inflated gas bill
For prevention, make sure that all your gas appliances and pipelines are inspected once a year by a certified professional.
4. Water Heater Issues/no hot water
Certainly in the winter months, few would disagree that hot running water is a necessity. At the very least, it would be considered an urgent problem - which is why you may wish to engage a plumber straight away.
It might also be the case that a quick fix is possible. If you have a gas heater, for example, the pilot light may have simply gone out and needs reigniting. On the other hand, if you’re heater is electric, you may just need to flick the switch back on in the box, as it may have tripped.
Apart from this, whilst you probably can’t do much once it’s happened, it’s good idea to get your plumber to check your water heater, perhaps once a year as part of an ongoing maintenance strategy. This is also recommended by the manufacturers.
5. Blocked sewer (overflow relief gully)
An overflow relief gully (ORG) is a grated outlet (drain) that acts as a relief valve in the case of a sewer blockage. This is located outside the home, usually at the side. Here’s a more in-depth video from Urban Utilities:
You should definitely add your ORG to the list of maintenance items in order to prevent unwelcome emergencies. If your overflow relief gully is indeed blocked, we recommend reaching out to a trusted plumber.