The threat of expensive water damage to your home can make a plumbing emergency extremely stressful. The water damage that your problem can cause is often more expensive to repair than the plumbing issue that caused it. When faced with a sudden and severe plumbing problem, call your Charlottesville plumbing contractor and follow the five steps below to stem further damage.
The first step you should take in most plumbing emergencies is to stop the flow of water. In preparation for emergencies, learn where your home’s main shutoff valve is, as well as those of the individual appliances throughout your home.
If you have a gas water heater, shut it off after turning off your main water valve. Leaving it on could result in the water heater bursting or overheating.
Once the main water supply has been turned off, you’ll need to drain the pipes. You can do this by opening up the spigots on the outside of your house.
You can use epoxy or Teflon tape to provide short-term fixes for small leaks. These may be used to stop leaks from loose joints, for example. If you can’t stop a leak, place a bucket under it to catch the water and prevent water damage to your home.
If you have clogged drains and the DIY methods you’ve tried haven’t opened them, avoid using the associated fixtures and contact a plumbing professional.
Learn more about how W.E. Brown can tackle your plumbing emergency, or give us a call to schedule an appointment!