Unfortunately, not all plumbing problems occur in office hours. That means late night leaks. Discovering your toilet is clogged just before bed or being woken in the early hours by water flooding the kitchen.
Fortunately, most reputable local plumbers will have an emergency plumber call out service, with a number you can call at any time. If an emergency strikes, you’ll want a 24/7 plumber who’s available 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
It’s important to note that plumbers will typically charge extra for out of hours call outs. So, it’s important to determine whether your plumbing issue truly is an emergency before you make that call. If it can wait until morning, you’ll save yourself some of the fees. Often, people will end up paying emergency call out fees unnecessarily, as not all calls will be emergencies.
But how can you determine whether you’ve got a plumbing emergency on your hands? Some calls might not be emergencies, whereas some certainly are.
Here are the plumbing issues that you’ll want to call out an emergency plumber to tackle…
Flooding
If you notice flooding, odds are you’ve got a plumbing emergency on your hands. Flooding can lead to damage to your possessions and even property structure. Not to mention a hefty water bill. So, it’s important to get it sorted as soon as possible.
Gushing water can signify a serious leak, or perhaps a burst pipe. In winter, pipes can be prone to freezing, which may lead to cracks appearing. A plumber will be able to carry out the appropriate fix and advise you on preventing such occurrences in future.
So, if you’re faced with flooding, it’s safe to say it’s time to call the emergency plumber.
Blocked Toilet
A blocked toilet can also be classed as a plumbing emergency. This is because blocked toilets can pose a risk to health. And, of course, if you only have one toilet on your property, waiting until the next day to call a plumber simply isn’t an option.
If the blockage isn’t too serious, you could try first using a plunger, to see if this will dislodge the blockage. However, if this fails, or the water has risen too high to safely attempt this, call the emergency plumber without delay.
Overflowing Toilet
Like a blocked toilet, an overflowing toilet is a surefire emergency. Not only can it pose a risk to health, but it can also cause serious property damage if not addressed quickly. Get straight on the phone to the plumber and, in the meantime, put down old towels or rags to soak up any water that spills over the toilet bowl.
Similarly, if your drains are backing or overflowing anywhere in your property, call an emergency plumber asap. Sewer backups can pose a serious health hazard.
No Water
Turned the tap and nothing happens?
If your water supply has for some reason stopped, you’ll want to get a plumber out to identify and fix the problem sooner rather than later. Everyone needs a clean water supply, so this can definitely be classed as a plumbing emergency. Check with your neighbours to make sure this isn’t a supply problem, first, as you may need to call your water company if that is the case.
Taps Won’t Turn Off
At the other end of the spectrum, if your taps won’t turn off, this could pose a flood risk. Try switching off your water supply first if appropriate to minimise any damage. Then, call an emergency plumber to come and identify the issue.
Burst Pipes
If your pipes are damaged or have burst, you’ll want to call a plumber fast before any serious damage happens. Signs of burst pipes include no water coming out of your taps or water seeping around where your pipes are located. An emergency plumber can come in and fix the burst pipe quickly and effectively, or replace it if needed.
Murky Water
The water coming out of your taps should be crystal clear. If it is brown or murky looking, it may not be safe. Best to call a plumber to come and inspect your pipes. Do not try to use the water, be it for drinking or washing up.
Now, these are a few plumbing jobs that usually can wait until the next day and don’t require an emergency call out:
- Clogged sink
- Preventative maintenance
- Remodelling
- Inspections
- Installation
- Leaky tap
- Running toilet
Remember, if you suspect you have a plumbing emergency, it’s always better to be safe rather than sorry. You can always call and ask for advice if you’re not sure. Make sure it’s urgent and save yourself the additional call out fees if it can wait.
If you have any concern for the health and safety of you or your family, or your property, call the plumber immediately. And, if you can, switch off your water supply, place buckets under any drips or leaks and lay down towels or rags to soak up any water. If you’re not sure where your water supply valves are located, ask the plumber to show you.
Looking for an emergency plumber in Bournemouth? Contact Sani Solutions today on 07876 471846.
