Emergency Plumbing Repair: What to Do When Disaster Strikes
Plumbing emergencies are not only a huge inconvenience, they can cause significant damage to your property in a matter of minutes. If you don’t take the right steps, it can also be very expensive to fix the problem. The good news is that many plumbing emergencies can be prevented if you are proactive about maintenance and you know what to do in the event of an emergency. Emergency Plumbing Repair: What to Do When Disaster Strikes is a helpful article that will provide you with the tips you need in the event of a plumbing emergency.
The first step is to shut off the water supply. This will stop the flow of water and help prevent further damage from occurring. Make sure that you and your family members are familiar with where the shutoff valves for each fixture are located. It is also a good idea to know where the main water valve is located for your home.
Next, begin to assess the damage and clean up what you can. Using towels, rags and heavy-duty paper towels, soak up as much water as possible. Doing so will reduce the risk of mold growth and save carpet and drywall from water damage. It is also a good idea to move any valuables and furniture away from the area that has been affected by the water damage. Finally, try to ventilate the area as much as possible by opening windows. This will help to reduce the risk of mildew and mold in the future.
In the event of a serious plumbing issue, like a burst pipe, it is best to call an emergency plumber immediately. A burst pipe can cause flooding and extensive water damage in a very short amount of time. A burst pipe is usually caused by a ruptured or leaking water line, a broken or cracked sewer line, or a frozen and thawed sewer line.
Once the plumber arrives, they will be able to determine what the cause of the issue is and how to correct it. It is a good idea to have an estimate for the cost of the plumber before they arrive so that you can be prepared. Most emergency plumbers charge by the hour, but you may be able to negotiate a flat rate for an emergency situation.
It is also a good idea to ask your plumber about any fees for off-hours service. Some plumbers have a minimum fee that they charge for coming out during off-hours, while others will absorb this cost into the overall job.
Emergency situations can be stressful and scary, but it is important to stay calm and follow these tips so that you can minimize the damage and keep your family safe. If you are concerned about your plumbing system, contact Benjamin Franklin San Francisco today for all of your 24/7 emergency plumbing needs.