Plumbing emergencies are very much a fact of life. Just like changing seasons. The real issue is not whether they are coming or not. Sooner or later the snow always falls down. The real question is not when it will happen and just how hard it’s going to strike.

And just like changing seasons, the plumbing issues are much easier to deal with if we anticipate them and set up some contingencies. You see, when it comes to this very problem, there are only so many things that can go wrong. Knowing which of these things can be solved in DIY fashion and which require professional help can go a long way in putting your worries to rest.

Well, let us then take a quick look at some of the most common plumbing emergencies which belong to the latter group.

Clogged toilets

This may come off as a bit of surprise since, at first glance, clogged drains seem like a very benign issue. And, that is, for the most part true if we are dealing with minor clogs. So, if you notice your toilets face some problems flushing, be sure to get your plunger and see how serious the clog is. Your second emergency plumbing option comes in the form of natural solvents like the good old combo of hot water, baking soda, and vinegar. If the toilet still fails to flush properly, it’s time to call professional aid. Still, toilet clogs are symptoms of a bigger problem – in any case, they are worth a look.

Burst pipes

This issue is, beyond any doubt for a professional plumber, and experienced for that matter. Burst pipes require too much work and they can cause too much structural damage to be played with. The thing is, bust pipes are well hidden within the walls and they are hard to notice before they start causing more severe problems. So, try to be extra careful and vigilant with this one. Some of the signs pointing out to this issue come in the form of fluctuating water pressure, strange watercolor (burst pipes tend to pick up rust), unpleasant odors, and, of course, damp stains across the walls.

Clogged drains

This issue is, in its nature, very similar to the clogged toilets. Clogged drains, on the other hand, are much more frequent and more taxing. So, as soon as you notice slow drainage, foul odors, gurgling sounds and increased water bills, be sure to apply your soda and vinegar treatment and immediately call experienced blocked drains professionals. But, in this case, the key to success is in prevention. Try them to spare your drains from materials like coffee beans, food particles, grease oil, chemicals, and sticky products and liquids. As long as you follow these guidelines, you should stay away from major issues.

Water heater issues

Water heaters issues are inherently nasty. This time, you are not dealing only with plumbing; you have to take electrical systems into account as well. So, if there is an occasion that warrants some experienced help, this is the one. Like in the previous examples, you will be able to make the work easier by preparing your home for emergency plumbing interventions and doing your best to keep the water heaters well maintained. Make yourself a habit of testing the heater valves, flushing the unit, cleaning the sediment, and checking the anode rods. All while being very cautious, of course.

Leaky faucets and pipes

Leaky faucets are so common most people don’t consider them plumbing issues to begin with. Be that as it may, leaving these affairs unchecked can waste you more than 3,000 gallons of water on an annual level. That’s more than enough for approximately 180 pleasant showers. So pay attention to the faucets and eventual odors, stains, and puddles around the exposed pipes. You can try to shut off the water valve, inspect the damaged faucet parts, and replace them on your own. But, if you are not sure enough, just keep the valve shut to prevent further wastes and call the professional aid.

Low water pressure

Now, low water pressure is not really a plumbing emergency in itself but rather a sign pointing out to other, more serious issues. We have seen it popping up a couple of times even in this article. But, that doesn’t mean you should act quickly as soon as you see it dropping. If you notice this symptom, start looking for other problems like broken water regulators, faulty fixtures, signs of corrosion, worn out valves, and clogged pipes. If you manage to zero in on these concerns, you will make your plumber’s life much easier and save a couple of bucks along the way. But, be sure to call one in any case.

Wrapping-up

So, these were six most frequent plumbing issues that most definitely warrant professional help, as well as a couple of preventive measures and emergency fixes to keep you busy until the handymen finally arrive. Plumbing problems are not that noticeable or hazardous as, let’s say electrical issues. That’s why people tend to treat them very lightly and put them aside until they blow way out of proportion. Don’t be one of those people. Staying vigilant and addressing all the problems without any delay is what keeps your household safe, pleasant, and sustainable.