Plumbing emergencies can be stressful, and dealing with them is never fun.
A plumbing system can break or stop working at any time, and it’s important to know what to do when that happens. If you’re unprepared for a plumbing emergency, it can lead to major problems with your home.
The number of people who experience a plumbing emergency in their homes is increasing by 5% every year, according to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). In fact, ASHI also reports that 40% of all home repairs are related to plumbing issues. And it’s not just older homes that see these problems: over half of all new homeowners report issues with their plumbing within two years of moving in.
From burst pipes and flooding to sewage backups and malfunctioning water heaters, these crises demand immediate attention and swift action. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner in Detroit or a first-time buyer, knowing how to handle a plumbing emergency properly can make all the difference in mitigating damage and ensuring the safety of your home.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of plumbing emergencies, exploring what they are, common causes, and, most importantly, the crucial steps you should take to safeguard your property and loved ones when faced with such an urgent situation.
Preparedness is the key, so let’s equip you with the knowledge and know-how to face any plumbing emergency with confidence and composure.
What are Plumbing Emergency?
Plumbing emergencies are sudden and often severe issues related to the plumbing system in a home or property that require immediate attention and resolution. These emergencies can significantly damage property, pose health risks, and disrupt daily activities. Plumbing emergencies can happen at any time, often catching homeowners off guard and necessitating swift action to prevent further damage and costly repairs.
What is Considered A Plumbing Emergency?
A plumbing emergency is any unexpected and urgent issue within the plumbing system that requires immediate attention to prevent serious damage to the property or poses a risk to health and safety. These emergencies can occur at any time and may demand immediate action to contain the situation and prevent further complications. Here are some situations that are considered plumbing emergencies:
Burst Pipes
If you have a burst pipe and are experiencing water damage, look for plumbing services near me. Waiting to deal with the issue can cause additional damage to your home or business. You also risk being responsible for the cost of repairs under your home or business owner’s insurance policy. Burst pipes can be caused by something as basic as a loose screw or as serious as an earthquake.
Sewage Backup
A sewage backup occurs when sewage backs up through your toilet or sink pipes. This happens when the sewer line breaks or clogs up with debris, which can be caused by tree roots growing into it or by improper maintenance (like not flushing). If you have a sewage backup in your bathroom, call a Metro Detroit plumber to fix the problem permanently so that it doesn’t happen again!
Complete Loss of Water Supply
If you lose your water supply, you can’t use your toilet, your sink, or any other appliance that uses water. It’s an emergency because it can make you sick if you don’t have any way to wash your hands or take a shower. It’s also an emergency because it can damage your appliances and fixtures, which means they’ll need to be replaced—and that costs money.
Clogged or Overflowing Toilet
If you have a clogged toilet or one that’s overflowing with sewage and other waste, it’s an emergency because the longer it sits there, the worse it gets. You could get sick if too much waste starts leaking into other areas of your home. And if too much sewage spills onto the floor and walls of your bathroom, it will cause damage that will cost money to fix.
Water Heater Malfunction
If your water heater breaks down, it can severely damage your property and the people in it. If your water heater malfunctions, call a water heater repair plumber immediately to get it fixed before using any other shower or tub in your home.
Gas Leak
A gas leak is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. If you smell gas, open all the windows and doors or use an exhaust fan to clear out the room where the leak is coming from. Then, call gas line repair and installation experts and stay away from the area until it has been deemed safe by experts.
Major Water Leaks
If there’s a major leak in your house or business, you need to call a professional plumber in Detroit as soon as possible. This will ensure minimal damage and that you don’t end up paying too much money for repairs.
Frozen Pipes
If you think your pipes are frozen, it’s time to call a plumber. Don’t wait until they burst—that can lead to major water damage.
You may not know if your pipes are frozen until they burst. Frozen pipes can burst while you’re sleeping or while you’re away from home. If this happens, you’ll want to make sure that any water leak is contained as quickly as possible. This could prevent thousands of dollars in damage if the leak continued over an extended period.
Leaking Roof or Ceiling
If the water is draining into your home, it’s an emergency. Move all of your belongings to a safe location and call a plumber.
Blocked Drains
If you see water or sewage backing up in your home or have standing water in any room, it’s an emergency. You should immediately turn off the water supply to your house and call a drain-cleaning plumber who can clear the blockage.
What To Do In A Plumbing Emergency?
In a plumbing emergency, taking quick and appropriate action is crucial to minimize damage and ensure your home’s and its occupants’ safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do in a plumbing emergency:
Turn Off the Water Supply
The first and most important step is to find the main water shut-off valve and turn it off. This will stop the water flow and prevent further flooding or damage. Make sure all family members know the location of this valve in case of emergencies.
Assess the Situation
Once the water supply is off, assess the extent of the problem and try to identify the source of the emergency. Check for leaks, burst pipes, or any other visible issues that may need immediate attention.
Use Buckets or Towels to Contain Water
If there is already standing water, use buckets or towels to soak up as much water as possible. This will help prevent water from spreading and causing more damage to your property.
Address Minor Leaks
If you can identify a minor leak, such as a dripping faucet or a small pipe leak, use towels, rags, or plumbing tape to contain the leak until professional help arrives temporarily.
Avoid Using Plumbing Fixtures
To prevent further complications, avoid using any plumbing fixtures or appliances connected to the affected area. This includes toilets, sinks, showers, and washing machines.
Turn Off the Gas Supply (if applicable)
In case of a gas leak, turn off the gas supply at the main gas valve, open windows and doors to ventilate the area, and evacuate the premises. Do not use any electrical appliances or create sparks, as gas can be highly flammable.
Contact a Professional Emergency Plumber
Once you’ve taken initial steps to contain the emergency, call a reputable emergency plumbing service immediately. Describe the situation clearly, and provide as much information as possible to help them understand the severity of the problem.
Follow Safety Precautions
While waiting for the plumber to arrive, prioritize safety for yourself and your family. Keep children and pets away from the affected area, and avoid contact with standing water, especially if it’s from a sewage backup.
Document the Damage
If possible, take photos or videos of the plumbing emergency and any resulting damage. This documentation may be useful for insurance claims or future reference.
Stay Calm
Dealing with a plumbing emergency can be stressful, but try to remain calm and focused. Taking swift and measured actions will help in effectively managing the situation until a professional plumber arrives.
Which is Better in Plumbing Emergency: DIY Vs. Professional Plumbing Service
Here’s a comparison table outlining the differences between handling a plumbing emergency yourself (DIY) and hiring a professional emergency plumbing service:
| Aspect | DIY Emergency Plumbing Services | Professional Emergency Plumbing Services |
| Skill and Expertise | Limited knowledge and skills for basic tasks | Extensive training and expertise in plumbing |
| Complexity of Repairs | Suitable for minor issues and simple fixes | Able to handle complex and major problems |
| Safety Risk | Higher risk of accidents and injuries | Trained to prioritize safety during repairs |
| Quality of Work | Varies depending on the individual’s skills | Provides high-quality and reliable solutions |
| Equipment and Tools | Limited access to specialized tools | Equipped with professional-grade tools |
| Time Investment | May take longer as skills are limited | Efficient and swift resolution of issues |
| Cost | Usually cheaper upfront, but the quality may suffer | Costlier but offers better long-term results |
| Warranty or Guarantee | No warranty or guarantee on the work | Often comes with warranties for workmanship |
| Potential Damage | Risk of causing more damage if not done correctly | Minimizes the risk of additional damage |
| 24/7 Availability | Available only if the individual is capable | Offers 24/7 emergency services |
| Insurance Coverage | Personal insurance may not cover damages | Usually covered under the plumber’s insurance |
FAQs
How much does emergency plumbing cost?
The average plumbing emergency will cost $100-$150, but the price can vary hugely depending on the size and complexity of your repair.
Who should I call for a plumbing emergency?
If you’re experiencing a plumbing emergency, it’s best to call an experienced 24-hour plumber. While some plumbing problems can be resolved with DIY solutions, there are many situations where you’ll want to call a professional emergency plumber instead.
Are emergency plumbing services available 24/7?
Yes, our services are available 24/7. Your emergency plumbing needs are just as important as your regular plumbing needs.
Are emergency plumbing services more expensive than regular services?
No, emergency plumbing services are not more expensive than regular services. In fact, At Motor City Plumbing and Drain, we will be able to provide you with a discount on your emergency plumbing repairs if they are performed within 24 hours of receiving a service request.
How can I prevent plumbing emergencies in the future?
The best way to avoid plumbing emergencies is to have your pipes and drains checked on a regular basis. We recommend you get your drain pipes cleaned out every year, and we also recommend that you have your water heater checked every year. If a professional finds any issues, they can be addressed before they become problems leading to an emergency.
How do I choose the right emergency plumbing service?
When choosing an emergency plumbing near me, it’s important to find one that has been around for a long time and has had positive reviews from previous clients. You also want to ensure that the plumbing company has licensed plumbers certified by the National Association of Plumbing Inspectors (NAPIS) or the Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials (APMO).
Call Motor City Plumbing And Drain For All Emergency Plumbing Services In Detroit!
Are you dealing with an emergency plumbing situation in Detroit? Call Motor City Plumbing and Drain for All emergency plumbing services in Detroit!
We’re a full-service plumbing company that provides all kinds of emergency plumbing services, including gas line repair and installation services in southeast Michigan. We have the experience and knowledge to handle any issue, no matter how complex it may be.
Our emergency plumbing services in Detroit include:
- Residential & Commercial Plumbing
- Gas Line Repair & Installation
- Water Heater Installation/Replacement
- Maintenance & Repairs
- Drain Cleaning
- Video Inspection & Leak Detection
- Toilet Repair or Replacement
- Faucet Repair or Replacement
- Septic Systems
- Garbage Disposal Installation
- Sewer Line Repair
- 24/7 Emergency Plumbing
- And Many More…
We also understand that your home is your sanctuary—your place of peace and comfort where you can retreat from the world outside. That’s why we take pride in our work and strive to provide exceptional 24 hour emergency plumbing service at affordable prices. Our goal is to make sure that you feel comfortable in your home again as quickly as possible, so you can enjoy it once again without worrying about any issues with your plumbing system.
If you have any Plumbing Emergencies in Metro Detroit—from installing new fixtures to fixing broken pipes—we’re here for you! Give us a call today at (586) 271-0421!