Knowing when to call a plumber can save you time, money, and prevent potentially serious damage to your home’s plumbing system. While some minor issues can be handled with a little DIY, others require the expertise of a licensed plumber. From persistent leaks to major plumbing emergencies, understanding the signs of a serious problem is essential for keeping your home’s plumbing running smoothly.
Plumbing Emergencies
Some plumbing issues simply can’t wait and require immediate attention from a professional plumber. Flooding is one of the most obvious signs that it’s time to call a plumber, whether it’s caused by a burst pipe, a severely clogged toilet, or a malfunctioning water heater. These situations can lead to significant water damage if not addressed quickly.
Other emergencies include sudden drops in water pressure, which can indicate a serious problem in your plumbing system, such as a hidden leak or a blocked pipe. If you notice that water pressure has drastically decreased throughout your home, it’s essential to contact a licensed plumbing contractor to investigate the issue.
Additionally, if you experience sewage backups or overflowing plumbing fixtures like toilets or sinks, you should call a plumber immediately. These problems can be unsanitary and may signal a more serious issue with your sewer line. In any of these emergency situations, getting a professional on-site as soon as possible is the key to preventing extensive damage and costly repairs.
Broken Pipes & Water Damage
Broken or leaky pipes are clear signs that you need to call a plumbing professional immediately. If you notice water pooling around your home or any signs of water damage on your walls, floors, or ceilings, it’s likely due to a broken pipe or leaky pipes. These issues can cause significant damage if left untreated, especially if the water flow is not stopped.
In some cases, you may need to shut off the water supply to your home to prevent further damage while waiting for professional plumbing services to arrive. A plumbing professional will be able to assess the situation, repair or replace the broken pipes, and ensure that your home’s plumbing system is restored to proper working order. Ignoring water damage or delaying repairs can lead to mold growth, foul odors, structural damage, and much more costly repairs down the line.
Hot Water Heater
Water heaters are essential for providing hot water to your home, but when they malfunction, they can quickly become a major headache. Common issues include inconsistent water temperature, strange noises, and even leaks, which can cause serious damage if not addressed. A malfunctioning water heater can leak gallons of water into your home, leading to water damage and the need for costly repairs.
When your water heater is acting up, it’s important to call experienced plumbers who can diagnose and repair the problem. Whether it’s a faulty heating element, a broken thermostat, or sediment buildup, a plumber will ensure that the issue is properly addressed before it escalates. In some cases, you might need emergency repairs, especially if your water heater is leaking or has completely stopped working. Attempting to fix a water heater without the right expertise can be dangerous, so it’s always best to rely on professional help to ensure your system is safely restored.
Clogged Toilets & Sinks
A clogged toilet can be one of the most frustrating plumbing issues you encounter. While minor clogs can sometimes be cleared with a plunger, persistent blockages often require professional plumbing experience. If your toilet isn’t flushing properly or the toilet bowl is filling with water and not draining, it’s a sign that something more serious is happening. Sometimes, the issue is in the toilet tank or even deeper in your pipes, especially if you’re dealing with frozen pipes or a more complex blockage.
In addition to clogged toilets, sinks can also be problematic when drainage slows or stops completely. Clogs in toilets and sinks can lead to unpleasant odors and even cause water to back up into other areas of your home.
If you’ve tried basic fixes and the toilet or sink remains clogged, it’s time to call in a professional with the specialized tools necessary to clear the blockage safely and effectively. Before attempting any fixes, make sure to check the water valve to avoid potential flooding. Whether it’s a stubborn clog in your toilet tank or a major blockage, an experienced plumber can get things flowing smoothly again.
Sewer & Storm Lines
Issues with your sewer or storm lines can cause major disruptions in your home, and these problems often require the expertise of a plumber with specialized training. Sewer line blockages or damage can lead to unpleasant backflows, standing water, or even raw sewage entering your home. Storm lines, which help direct rainwater away from your property, can also become clogged or damaged, leading to flooding during heavy rains.
Solving these problems requires hands-on experience and the right equipment. For example, installing backflow preventers can help protect your home from sewage entering through drains during heavy rain or when the sewer line is blocked. These types of repairs and installations aren’t tasks for an amateur—having a trained, professional plumber ensures that your sewer and storm lines are repaired or maintained properly, preventing costly and unsanitary problems down the line.
The Importance of a Licensed Plumber
Hiring a licensed plumber is crucial for ensuring that the work done on your home is safe, effective, and up to industry standards. The licensing process is rigorous, requiring extensive training and hands-on experience to ensure that plumbers can handle the complexities of various plumbing systems. There are different types of plumbing licenses, and each represents a certain level of expertise within the plumbing industry.
To earn a plumbing license, professionals must pass a licensing exam that tests their knowledge and skills in areas such as safety regulations, building codes, and advanced plumbing techniques. The plumbing license is a mark of credibility and assures you that the plumber is capable of performing the necessary repairs or installations correctly.
Additionally, licensing requirements help protect homeowners by ensuring that plumbers adhere to the highest standards of workmanship. When you hire a licensed plumber, you can trust that the job will be done right the first time, saving you from potential issues or hazards down the road.
You Can Trust the Professional Plumbers at Empire
Each of our plumbers holds a valid plumbing license, ensuring that they meet the highest industry standards. Whether you’re dealing with a plumbing emergency, need water heater repairs, or are facing rising water bills due to leaks, we are here to help.
We understand how important it is to trust the people working on your home. That’s why our plumbers are not only equipped with the proper training but also with years of hands-on experience to provide the best solutions for your plumbing needs. When you choose Empire, you’re choosing quality, reliability, and peace of mind. Contact us today for professional plumbing services you can depend on!
