Plumbing emergencies can be a tremendous inconvenience. Burst pipes can cause flooding and water damage to your home, clogged toilets and sinks can leave you without working plumbing, and malfunctioning hot water heaters can make your home uninhabitable. But with some simple preventative steps, you can help avoid emergency plumbing from happening in the first place. Florida Best Plumbing LLC created this guide to help you protect your property from plumbing emergencies.
Common Causes of Plumbing Emergencies
Here are statistics based on our gathered data from our customers over the years.
- Clogged drains cause approximately 24% of all plumbing emergency services.
- Leaky pipes account for around 15% of all plumbing services.
- Overflow from a sink or toilet accounts for 10% of all plumbing emergencies.
- Around 6% of all plumbing emergencies are caused by a broken water heater tank.
- Approximately 4% of all plumbing emergencies are caused by a burst pipe.
- Malfunctioning sump pumps account for 3% of all plumbing emergencies.
- Clogged toilets account for around 2% of all plumbing emergencies.
- Malfunctioning garbage disposals account for 1% of all plumbing emergencies.
- Frozen pipes account for 1% of all plumbing emergencies.
- Malfunctioning water softeners account for 0.5% of all plumbing emergencies.
15 Proactive Steps to Take Now to Avoid Costly Plumbing Emergencies Later: How to Prevent Plumbing Emergencies from Happening
So what can you do to avoid plumbing emergencies from happening in the first place? Here are some tips:
1. Regular plumbing maintenance.
One of the best ways to prevent emergencies is by performing regular maintenance on your home’s plumbing system. Regular inspections of your plumbing system can help you identify small plumbing problems before they become major ones. This includes having a qualified plumber come out and inspect all of the pipes, water lines, septic, faucets, and other components of your home’s plumbing system at least once per year. Emergency plumbers can look for signs of wear and tear, such as water discoloration, flood, loose fittings, cracks, corrosion, or damage, and can make any necessary repairs before they become a bigger problem.
2. Check your home’s appliances.
In addition to having your plumbing system checked by a professional, it is important to also check the appliances in your house regularly to ensure that they are functioning properly. Regularly inspecting your water heater, boiler, dishwasher, washing machine, and other large appliances can help identify problems before they cause a plumbing emergency. In addition to checking these appliances yourself, a professional must also have them serviced regularly.
3. Check your home’s drains.
From your kitchen faucet, bathroom sink, bathtub, and shower to your outside garden hoses, clogs can cause major plumbing emergencies if left unchecked, so it is important to check them. If you notice any blockage, you should have it professionally cleared right away. You can also use a plunger, drain cleaners, and other tools to remove any blockages, debris, or buildup that may be in the pipe, and if there appears to be a plumbing problem, have expert technicians come out and inspect the drain.
4. Be mindful of what you put down your drains.
It is also important to be mindful of what you are putting down your drains, as some things can cause major clogs. Grease, oil, fats from foods, hair, coffee grounds, and other food particles should never be put down the sink or toilet, as they can cause a clog. If you need to put something down the drain, use a drain strainer or device that will catch anything that could clog the pipe.
5. Check your home’s outdoor fixtures.
If your home has outdoor fixtures such as hose bibs or outdoor spigots, it is important to check them regularly for signs of wear and tear. Ensure they are not leaking or showing any other signs that could lead to a plumbing emergency. Additionally, make sure to turn off these fixtures during cold weather so that they do not freeze and cause damage.
6. Be mindful of what you flush down the toilet.
Make sure you’re only flushing water-soluble items such as toilet paper and human waste. This is especially important if your home has older pipes, as they can become easily clogged with certain items such as paper towels, wipes, and sanitary products. Toilets can also become clogged and cause plumbing issues if the line is not vented properly, so make sure to have your plumber check this as well.
7. Be aware of your home’s water pressure.
High water pressure can put extra strain on your plumbing system, leading to damaged pipes or other issues. Make sure to check your water pressure with a gauge; if it is too high, have a plumber come out and adjust it for you. Giving them a call when you notice any strange noises or changes in water flow can save you money in repair costs down the line.
8. Check for water leaks.
Water leaks can cause a lot of damage to your home and can lead to costly plumbing repairs if they are left unchecked. Make sure you check under sinks, behind toilets, and in any other area where water could be leaking. If you notice any signs of a leak, such as wet or discolored walls or floors, have an emergency plumber come out and take a look.
9. Utilize preventative measures.
One of the best ways to avoid emergencies is by utilizing some preventative measures such as pipe insulation and water shut-off valves. Having these safety features in place can reduce the chances of a plumbing emergency happening in your home.
10. Install plumbing leak detectors.
Plumbing leaks can be problematic, as they can lead to water damage and mold growth if left unchecked. Installing water leak detectors in your home will help you identify any plumbing leaks early on before they cause major damage. The detectors will alert you when a leak is detected, so you can take the necessary steps to repair it before it gets out of hand.
11. Use garbage disposal correctly.
Garbage disposals can be one of the most convenient appliances in your home, but they must be used correctly to avoid emergency plumbing. Always run cold water while using the disposal, and make sure only food particles are put down the drain. Avoid putting anything such as coffee grounds or grease into the sink, as this can cause clogs and other plumbing problems.
12. Don’t use harsh chemicals.
When it comes to cleaning your drains, avoid using harsh chemicals since they can damage your pipes. Instead, opt for natural cleaners such as vinegar and baking soda to help clear out any buildup or debris in the drain. Harsh cleaners can also eat out the pipes, leading to serious plumbing emergencies. If you need a more powerful cleaner, look for one specifically designed for plumbing use.
13. Keep Electronics Far From Water Sources.
Electrical components and water don’t mix, so it is important to keep any electronics away from the sink or tub. If an electronic device such as a phone charger were to fall into the water, it could cause a short circuit and lead to an electrical emergency. Also, make sure not to plug in any devices near sinks or bathtubs, as this can also cause a short circuit if the device were to come into contact with water.
14. Know where your main water shut-off valve is located.
Knowing where the main water shut-off valve is located in your home can be incredibly helpful in the event of a plumbing emergency. This valve will allow you to shut off the water supply to your home if there is an issue with one of the pipes or other components. Having this knowledge ahead of time can help you save money and avoid major damage from occurring.
15. Only hire a professional plumber.
Only a professional plumber must be used when installing or repairing any plumbing in your house. A licensed and insured plumber has the tools and knowledge necessary to properly diagnose and repair any issues quickly and accurately, saving you time and money in the long run. Amateur work can often lead to more costly damages and an even bigger emergency situation. Trying to handle a major emergency plumbing issue on your own can lead to even bigger problems, so it’s best to trust a professional.
Takeaway
- Install plumbing leak detectors, pipe insulation, and water shut-off valves.
- Check for water leaks, and install plumbing leak detectors if needed.
- Use garbage disposal correctly and avoid using harsh chemicals to clean drains.
- Keep your electronics far from any water source to avoid electric shocks or short circuits
- Know where the main water shut-off valve is located.
- Always hire a professional plumber to take care of any plumbing issues.
Following these tips can help prevent plumbing emergencies from happening on your property. A little bit of precaution and maintenance on your part can go a long way in keeping your plumbing system in good working order, extending its lifespan, and avoiding costly plumbing repairs. If you suspect an issue or are ever unsure about how to handle a situation, it is always best to call a professional emergency plumber for assistance. With the right precautions, you can help avoid plumbing emergencies!
For more information and questions, call us at 407-683-6644.
Need an Emergency Plumbing? Contact us today!
Florida Best 24/7 Emergency Best Plumbing LLC is here to help you with all your plumbing needs. From plumbing emergencies, installation, replacement, and repairs to routine maintenance, our plumbing company experienced team of plumbers and staff will ensure that your home and business are operating at their best.
No matter the size of the job, our plumbing professionals will show up on time and be prepared to work in order to provide quality emergency plumbing service. We have experience and knowledge and always prioritize our customers’ needs. We service Orange County, Florida, including Winter Garden, Oakland, Ocoee, and the surrounding areas.
Get in touch with our experts today by visiting our website or calling our phone number at 407-683-6644 and emailing us at floridabplumbing@gmail.com to schedule an appointment!