Warning Signs of a Plumbing Emergency

Recognizing a potentially dangerous situation can prevent a plumbing disaster and save much money.

Recognizing a plumbing emergency may be tricky. For example, some water leaks can waste considerable water, while clogged toilets can usually wait for a day without causing too much damage. However, recognizing a potentially dangerous situation can prevent a plumbing disaster and save much money.

Here are some warning signs that require an emergency call to a professional plumber.

Extensive water leaks

Water leaks happen often, and smaller leaks can go unnoticed for a while. But, on the other hand, a large water stain on the wall or ceiling or a flooded floor indicates that a pipe broke somewhere.

If there is a big water leak, call an emergency plumber immediately since a leak can seriously damage the home's structural integrity. If left untreated, leaks can result in mold and dampness, which can cause health issues. Leaks can also be life-threatening if they come into contact with electrical devices or wires and cause short circuits.

Low water pressure

Low water pressure usually indicates an obstruction along the aerator or damaged pipeworks. If the low pressure affects multiple faucets, the plumbing problem requires professional attention, likely due to an eroded intake pipe that cracked or burst.

Leaving this problem untreated may lead to a complete system failure and losing water.

Foul smell 

The smell of sulfur or rotten eggs in the house indicates a gas leak. It can be easily identified due to the smell and the hissing sound. The signature smell is due to common odorants added to natural gas to make it perceptible.

Turn off all gas appliances to avoid further damage and potential explosions when encountering a gas leak. Prolonged exposure to natural gas causes severe symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea, which could escalate into life-threatening conditions.

High water bills

A higher water bill can come with changing seasons, extended shower times, or simply watering the garden in the summer. But most times, noticing the unusually high count on the water bills can signify a silent issue with the plumbing system.

Whenever the family uses water without knowing where it went, it points to a leak as the likely culprit. Even if the water bill didn't change much, consistently higher bills or steady increases need attention. Call the emergency plumber as soon as one notices something wrong.

React to an emergency immediately

Some issues with the plumbing system can wait without resulting in significant problems. However, if there are any early warning signs of extensive water pipe or gas leaks, it will be best to call a plumbing expert instantly. These problems can cause significant damage to the living space, and it is essential to react accordingly.

Solace Plumbing is a licensed commercial and residential plumber with 26 years of experience in Gilbert, Az. We provide the East Valley with a wide range of plumbing services, including 24-hour emergency service. Some of our specialties include plumbing installation and repair, remodeling, natural gas and propane piping, slab leak detection, and full-service repiping. Commercial work includes restaurants, school districts, and tenant improvements. Call  Solace Plumbing at 480-630-0224.