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7 Steps to Handling a Plumbing Emergency Successfully

Plumbing emergencies are inconvenient and messy, but sometimes, they can be downright scary. There is always the threat of damage to your property, and thought of what a emergency plumbing repairs may cost can cause anyone to start hyperventilating. So, what do you do when there's water gushing all over your home?

Firstly, it is important to relax, because nobody can think straight when they are panicking. Take a few deep breaths, and get cracking on the list below while you wait for the emergency plumber to arrive:

1. Shut off the water

The best way to mitigate damage, is to stop more water from entering your home. Do this by shutting off the water supply. If the problem is caused by a single fixture, turn it off by turning the valve clockwise. If there's a leaking pipe or similar emergency, do the same with the main valve.

2. Switch off the water heater

A gas heater can be turned off by the unit itself, where the gas is located. If you don't turn off the gas and the energy supply for the unit, hot water and pressure may build up in the unit, causing it to burst and other issues.

3. Open the outside spigots

Once the main valve is closed, open all the outside spigots to allow water to flow out - rather outside your home than inside.

4. Block any leaks

Use Teflon Tape, plumber's epoxy or even old rags to prevent water from leaking out of small leaks or loose joints. If you can't stop the leak, place a large bucket underneath the leak to minimize the risk of water damage. If you have a leaking appliances, check the drains or traps, which could cause your appliance to overflow. This issue is usually quickly and easily remedied.

5. Lay down towels

Use towels to prevent water from entering rooms with hardwood floors or other valuables. The towels will absorb the water before it can cause any more damage.

6. Unclog your drains

We've posted many tips on Anta Plumbing for You as to how you can easily unclog drains. If your drains are blocked, the drain may back up and cause water to flow into your home. If DIY methods fail, be sure to avoid using any of the connected fixtures until you can get help from a professional plumber.

7. Disinfect

Once the plumber has made the necessary repairs, you may need to disinfect, particularly if the leak involved grey or black water, both of which often contain bacteria. If you used rags or towels to clean up sewage, you will have to throw it away. Use a strong disinfectant to clean up any areas touched by the water, and run fans and dehumidifiers in the area for a few hours, or until the area has dried thoroughly.

Your Toronto emergency plumber is your ally in all water-related situations, which is why it is a good idea to keep his number on hand. Write down our phone number now, and don't hesitate to call us whenever you need us.

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Written by Anta

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