Indoor plumbing is not something many people think of as critical to their lives, but the reality is, at least in modern America, this is very much the case. What if you still had to go to a well for water? What if you needed to start a fire to warm up water for bathing? What if your water wasn’t safe to drink? What if you had to go into the woods or some other locale to relieve yourself?
Indoor plumbing provides us with many safe, convenient ways to live our life. And when something goes wrong with that plumbing, it can ruin our day in ways we hadn’t imagined. But what can go wrong? Here are the more common ways that you can experience a sudden plumbing emergency.
Fixtures That Leak
Most people will have experience with this, and, as far as plumbing emergencies go, this is relatively low level. It’s true that a persistent leak in a tap or showerhead can be annoying.
Given enough time, it can even cost you money, as that’s water you still pay for in your bill. But fixing a leak is often a simple matter of getting some new, small, easy to replace parts, and doing just that.
With a wrench and a new washer or O-ring, this type of leak problem is something homeowners can fix themselves. Sometimes the issue will require more professional help, but in most cases, you can do it yourself.
Blockage in Drains
Here’s an issue that can get very serious, but only if you let it. A blocked drain is exactly what it sounds like; the cause is an obstruction in the pipe somewhere that no longer lets water flow.
In the majority of cases, you’ll have warning of this, because the build-up occurs slowly, resulting first in a “slow drain,” where water doesn’t empty out from a sink or tub quickly.
The blockage only occurs in these situations if the build-up signs are ignored. Try a mechanical solution first, such as a plunger or plumber’s auger. Off-the-shelf drain cleaners are also an option but exercise more care. Cleaners can damage pipes if used incorrectly.
The Overflowing Toilet
In truth, this is just another variation on a blocked drain, but the consequences are more unpleasant and even dangerous.
Human waste has contagions in it that can affect people through exposure or physical contact. If a toilet overflows, this is a health hazard to everyone in the home.
The mess should be dealt with, and the blockage addressed quickly, either in the same way as a blocked drain or with professional help.
Burst Pipes in the Home
It can happen either as a result of the age of the pipes—some are over 100 years old now!—or through seasonal wear and tear, like cold winters causing water in pipes to freeze.
But, when a pipe bursts, this has the potential to be the most expensive emergency. Water damage from water pipes can hurt your walls or ceilings. Meanwhile, a burst drainage pipe means that used water—including toilet water—is now spilling into your home.
If you have a burst pipe in Mason, OH, you need to deal with this issue quickly. Make sure to get an experienced professional to help with problems on this scale. You can always handle less serious issues yourself, but for big problems, get a pro!