What are some of the most common mistakes people make when dealing with plumbing emergencies?

Dealing with Plumbing Emergencies: Common Mistakes to Avoid

When plumbing emergencies arise, it can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Unfortunately, many people make mistakes when dealing with these issues that can lead to bigger problems or more costly repairs. To help you stay on top of any plumbing emergency, here are some common mistakes to avoid.

1. Forgetting to Turn Off the Main Water Supply

The first step in dealing with a plumbing emergency is to turn off the main water supply. This will prevent any further water from entering the system and help reduce the damage caused by the emergency. If you don't know where your main water supply is located, take some time to familiarize yourself with it before an emergency arises.

2. Attempting DIY Repairs

It's understandable that you may want to try and fix a plumbing issue yourself, but this is often not a good idea. Plumbing systems are complex and require specialized tools and knowledge for proper repair. Furthermore, attempting DIY repairs can result in further damage which could be even more expensive than calling a professional plumber right away.

3. Ignoring Warning Signs

Another mistake people make when dealing with plumbing emergencies is ignoring warning signs such as strange sounds coming from pipes or slow or clogged drains. Ignoring these signs could result in an even bigger problem that requires more extensive repairs.

4. Not Having Emergency Contacts Ready

It's important to have contact information for reliable plumbers as well as your local water company handy in case of an emergency situation. Having these contacts ready can save you time and money.

5. Not Preparing for Future Emergencies

Finally, one of the biggest mistakes people make when dealing with plumbing emergencies is not preparing for future ones. Taking steps such as regularly checking your pipes and drains for signs of wear, tear, or clogs, as well as having them inspected annually by a professional plumber, can help you avoid future issues.

Frequently Asked Question

​What do most plumbers charge per hour?
Plumbers usually charge for their work by the hour, and the national average cost is about $100 per hour plus a service fee or minimum charge. Overall, hourly rates for plumbing can range from $25 to $200, depending on the experience level of the plumber and on the repair needed.
​What to do while waiting for a plumber?
  • Turn Off the Water. The first thing you should do is turn off the water
  • Drain The Lines
  • Clear All Standing Water
  • Check All Electrical Appliances
  • Move Furniture From Wet Areas
  • Take Notes And Pictures
​Do plumbers do free quotes?
Most professional plumbers offer clients a free estimate, which means they will come to your house, look at the job, and quote you an estimated cost. Don't let a plumber give you a price over the phone without looking at the repair first, because any estimate given this way will most likely be inaccurate.
How do I find a reputable plumber in my area?
The best way to find a good plumber is to ask friends and neighbors, remodeling contractors, and real estate agents. Nothing holds up a home sale faster than plumbing problems, so realtors often have a list of reliable, fast-response plumbers.
Should I call a plumber or do it myself?
Attempting to do the job yourself may make the situation worse or even put you in danger. Professional plumbers have the training, equipment, and experience that you don't have in case of more complicated issues. Thus it is unwise to forego their expertise.
What services do plumbers offer?
  • Installation, Inspection, and Replacement
  • Toilet Repair
  • Leak Repairs
  • Drain Cleaning
  • Pipe Repair and Replacement
  • Water Heater Services
  • Sewer Repair
​How long does an emergency plumber take?
An emergency plumbing call out can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours to be responded to. If you have a leak or a burst pipe, you can prevent further damage to your property by turning off your water supply.
Is it worth calling a plumber?
Without the proper experience and expertise, you could end up making costly mistakes. You might need to hire a plumber to fix your DIY issues. Instead, you can call them from the start, saving valuable time and money. You can rely on an experienced, trained professional to fix your plumbing issues.