According to Jobs and Skills Australia, around 53,400 plumbers are currently ready to help residents and business owners with repairs, installation, drainage, and gas system issues. But with the latest population at 26 million, this means there is one plumber for every 1,900 residents—a serious shortage of plumbers!

And how many of them are ready for a plumbing emergency? This is why you should learn how to handle common emergency plumbing issues. Here are five emergency plumbing concerns:

1. Burst Pipes

Not only can a busted pipe spill water into your home, but it can also damage furniture and household appliances and lead to health risks such as slips, falls, and electrocution. 

The most common cause is damage to the pipe, such as during construction or home renovation. Old, worn-down, or dilapidated water pipes can easily leak and burst. A busted pipe may not be visible or may be hidden underneath your property’s structure, which can affect the integrity and appearance of your home.

Eventually, you will know that a pipe has been leaking due to visible watermarks on the walls, puddles on the floor and reduced water pressure.

What to Do:

• Shut down the water supply to your home as soon as you suspect a busted pipe.
• If water is rising due to the burst pipe, shut down the fuse box or the circuit breaker. Never wade into standing water, not until you have shut down the fuse box. 
• Relieve pressure from the pipes by opening all the faucets.
• Remember the location of the busted pipe when reporting to plumbers.
• Photograph or take a video of the incident for reporting to your insurance company or landlord (if applicable).
• Remove standing water to prevent further damage to your home and furniture.
• Repair a small leak by patching it using waterproof tape or seals.

DIY repairs are only a temporary solution. The pipe can still leak and burst, and what’s worse, it could happen while you’re away. For burst pipes, it is always wise to call a plumber right away.

2. Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are often found in older homes and buildings. The buildup of debris and food waste in the drain can block the water flow. Cooking grease 

Drains can also clog when cooking grease hardens. Hair is also a common culprit as it can get trapped in soap scum, dirt and grease, creating a large hard mass. Aside from water backing up, clogs can also cause foul odours as rotting food and dirt become trapped in the drain pipes.

What to Do:

• Remove all visible and reachable debris, waste and hair from the drain.
• Use drain cleaner remedies such as baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, or salt. Follow with a pot of boiling water to dissolve grease and scum.
• Use drain clogging removers. Follow product instructions carefully and wear a mask and gloves to avoid skin contact and breathing the harmful fumes.

If all else fails or if a clog happens more often, it’s time to contact a plumber for professional blocked drain cleaning and repairs. 

3. Water Heater Failure

Old and poorly maintained water heaters can malfunction. These can be dangerous, causing scalds, burns, and electrocution. Watch out for warning signs that something is wrong with your water heater.

Most of the issues are caused by the accumulated mineral deposits inside the tank’s bottom. These deposits shield the water from the heater, leading to lukewarm to no hot water. Sometimes, weird noises can be heard coming from the tank’s interior.

Mineral deposits can also make water smell fishy or metallic. When the buildup is not addressed, heaters can leak and pressure valves will malfunction.

What to Do:

• Turn off your water supply for leaks from the heater.
• Turn off the power to the heater.
• Flush the tank to remove the buildup of deposits by opening the tank drain. It is usually at the bottom of the tank; refer to your owner’s manual for instructions.

It is always best to have your water heater regularly maintained. Contact a plumber to have your heater serviced, checked and repaired.

4. Overflowing Toilets

An overflowing toilet could be caused by a blocked drain or ventilation pipe, an incorrectly adjusted toilet float, or a clogged toilet tank. But whatever the cause, a blocked toilet must be addressed ASAP. 

What to Do:

• Open the tank lid and lift the float. This will prevent water from refilling the bowl.
• Shut off the water supply.
• Use a toilet plunger to stop the overflow.
• Use a toilet snake or auger. This is a flexible cable with a crank so it can maneuver inside the drain.
• Turn on the water supply and flush. Check if the overflow persists.

If the issue persists, it’s time to call a plumber. If you have an old home or plumbing system, it would be best to have your toilets inspected by a plumber to avoid overflow issues.

5. Gas Leaks

Leaking gas can lead to fires, explosions, and health risks. It can also cause headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. If you smell gas and suspect a leak, open windows and doors and evacuate your home immediately.

Contact an emergency plumbing service for gas line replacement and repair at once.

FAQs

What do I do when there is a plumbing emergency at home?

You must shut off the water source and fuse box for busted pipes and flooding. Shut off the gas source and evacuate your home for suspected gas leaks. Call our emergency numbers 02 9150 8779 at once.

What can I do to maintain plumbing systems at home?

You need an experienced plumber for regular maintenance. Book our certified plumbers to identify issues and provide maintenance like drain cleaning, pipe insulation, and inspections.

Is it okay to DIY plumbing issues?

Yes, it is okay to use DIY remedies to address plumbing issues; however, it is best to call a plumber to ensure repairs comply with safety standards. Using unsafe techniques or hacks can also aggravate the issue.

Is it expensive to hire an emergency plumber?

The cost of an emergency plumber depends on the type of plumbing work and your location in Sydney. Contact us for a free quote.

Call The Plumbing Wizard at 02 9150 8779 for 24-hour emergency plumbing.

We are fully licensed and insured, and 100% satisfaction is guaranteed with all our services. Enquire online to get a free quote for your general plumbing needs and find out how much money you can save with us!