We’ve all dealt with a small leaky pipe or two in our life and thought, “It can’t be that bad.” But how do you know when a leak becomes an emergency? Here are a few things to watch for.
How Bad is it?
If you’re looking up at a splotchy ceiling or down at the water bill that gets higher every month, you likely have a pipe leak. Even brown, discolored water or a soaked carpet is a sign of bigger problems in your home.
Can You Wait it Out?
Start by assessing whether or not the leak is something that needs immediate repair. Is it your toilet or sink that won’t stop leaking? Or is your washer spewing water from the pipes? Whatever it may be, reevaluate your options. If fixing the leak can wait until the next day to avoid an after-hours visit, try unplugging the water connection to your machine. If not, immediately call a plumber.
A small leak in the wrong place or the wrong appliance may lead to big problems. It could lead to any number of damages not only in your house but in the walls surrounding it.
What about a Quick Fix?
With an emergency leak, it’s possible to temporarily DIY a repair. In this case, use plumber’s tape or duct tape to cover a manageable hole. If neither of those are available, reach for old towels and rags to clog the hole. If possible, find the shutoff valve to stop the water flow for the time being.
Once you have control of the leak, call a trusted professional to inspect and solve the problem. Your own home improvement project should be a temporary fix – not the long term solution.
A pipe leak can be scary, but we’re here to fix it. Schedule a visit to solve your plumbing emergency by calling Mr. Plumber to get the job right.
