Running water is a necessary part of our everyday lives. Whether it is for washing dishes, showering or watering the garden, we depend on the water line that runs from the city water main to our house.
Some problems are obvious emergencies that require immediate attention. Others may not seem urgent at first but can quickly escalate into a major problem.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes often lead to water leaks and are one of the most common Plumbing Emergencies in Richmond VA. You can usually tell you have frozen pipes if your faucets produce only a trickle of water or if they are giving off foul odors. It’s best to shut off your water main until an emergency plumber arrives, but if you can’t do that, try opening any faucets in your home to release the pressure and allow for water and steam to escape during the thawing process.
If you can find the frozen section of pipe, apply heat to it using an electric heating pad or hair dryer (never use a blowtorch or other device with an open flame, as this is a fire hazard). You can also try opening cabinet doors in the affected areas and leaving faucets running slightly to keep water circulating. Insulating your pipes is a good way to prevent them from freezing, as is keeping the temperature in your home fairly high during frigid weather.
Water Leaks
Water leaks can be caused by many environmental conditions, and if left untreated can cause expensive damage to your property. One of the most common causes of a leaking water line is high water pressure, which can cause the walls of your pipes to crack or break. Water lines can also become damaged over time due to corrosion or by tree roots.
When a water leak occurs, it’s essential to hire a plumber who will not only repair the surface problem but will also take care of its root cause to prevent future issues. Licensed plumbers are trained to identify the underlying issues of a leaking pipe and fix them without damaging your plumbing system.
A leaking water line can lead to flooding, structural damage, and ruining your valuable possessions. Even a small leak can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage, so it’s important to call in a professional as soon as possible.
Burst Pipes
A burst pipe is an emergency because it can cause significant damage to your property. Even a small leak can lead to water stains on ceilings, wood flooring and antique furniture. In addition, it can cause structural damage and mold growth.
To minimize the damage, shut off the main water supply valve. Also, open all doors and cupboards, including cabinet doors under sinks, to promote airflow. Using hairdryers to warm up the pipes can also help.
If you can’t turn off the water, try to drain as much water as possible. It’s also important to keep an eye out for warning signs, such as puddles or wet areas on walls or floors. This will save you a lot of time and money when you call for plumbing repairs. Also, if you can, try to insulate any exposed pipes. This is especially important during the winter.
Sewer Backups
Sewer backups can be a very scary situation. Sewage contains dangerous bacteria and viruses that can cause serious illness in humans. It can also damage your home and belongings.
If you think you have a sewer backup, the first thing to do is shut off any water use in your house. Also, be sure to turn off electricity if the wastewater is coming close to electrical outlets.
Then, you need to figure out if it is a sewer main issue or one that involves your sewer service line (the line between your home and the City’s sewer system). A quick way to do this is to see if the backup happens only when you use water.
If it only occurs when you flush the toilet, that indicates the problem is in your pipes and not the City’s sewer line. It could be a clog, root intrusion or pipe break. A plumber can diagnose the problem and repair it.