At some point, nearly every homeowner will have a plumbing emergency. The good news is that when you're prepared, the situation doesn't have to get out of control. Getting professional plumbing repair service fast is always your best defense against water damage and other problems related to bad plumbing. Knowing when to call for 24-hour emergency plumbing in Pittsburgh, PA, and how to handle problems while you wait for help to arrive is crucial.
Whether you have an overflowing toilet, a soggy ceiling, or several inches of water on your floor, you need to know the right steps to take to protect your home. Keep reading to learn how to protect your home during a plumbing emergency.
Don't Panic
The calmer you are, the better decisions you'll make. In this post, you'll learn the steps you need to take to handle all plumbing problems, but these suggestions never take the place of professional expertise. That's why the #1 way to protect your home during a plumbing emergency is to know who to call. Have a number on hand to an emergency plumbing service near you.
Turn Off the Water
When water is spewing out of pipes or overflowing from sinks or toilets, you need to turn the water off as fast as possible. For sinks and toilets, look for the water shut-off valve near the fixture. Bigger emergencies will require that you shut the water off coming into the house. Do this by turning the main water valve clockwise. The main water valve can be found in the basement or utility room or wherever the main water line enters your home.
Open Faucets and Spigots
After turning the water off to your home, there could be water trapped in faucets and spigots. Plumbing professionals recommend that homeowners open the faucets and spigots to release any water being held in the pipes. Make sure to open outside spigots too.
Stop Small Leaks
While you wait for the plumber to arrive, you can temporary fix small leaks. This can be done using duct tape, plumber's tape, or plumber's putty. Most people don't have plumber's putty on hand, but it's a great item to have in your emergency toolbox.
After the water has been turned off, dry the pipe and apply the tape. Don't turn on the water again until the plumber arrives.
Keep the Area Clear
Some plumbing emergencies flood parts of the home. If you have a situation like this, keep the area clear. Don't let pets, children, or other family members near the area. The water could be gray or black water and contain hazardous material.
Never hesitate to call for 24-hour emergency plumbing service in Pittsburgh, PA. The sooner a plumber arrives, the faster you can get back to your day. For affordable plumbing service when you're facing an emergency, call Stahl Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning at (412) 273-1000.