Plumbing emergencies are not only an inconvenience, but they can also leave a lot of damage in their wake. They are also an unexpected expense. The good news, however, is that the vast majority of them can be avoided. Here are some very common plumbing emergencies that we’ve treated and how you can take measures today to prevent them.

Clogged Pipes

A small clog may not require an emergency drain service but that’s not the case if the clog is substantial. There are several factors that can contribute to clogged pipes, but a common one has to do with putting things down the drain that don’t belong there (like grease). For this reason, it’s a good idea to invest in drain screens and to perform regular drain maintenance by pouring hot water down your drains to clear away any build-up.

Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes run the risk of quickly bursting and potentially leaving you with water damage to deal with. A definite plumbing emergency but one that can be easily avoided with a few tips, such as disconnecting outdoor water hoses outside and wrapping any exposed pipes in your home with heater tapes. If your pipes are frozen, it’s important that you work to thaw them as quickly as possible–a job often left to professional plumbers.

Sewer System Backup

A sewer system backup can be gross (and messy!) and definitely requires a call to your plumber for emergency drain service. There are many reasons why sewer lines can get clogged, but a few causes include tree roots and flushing things down your toilet that shouldn’t be flushed. A good rule of thumb is to only flush human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Be cautious about what you put down your sink/garbage disposal as well.

Leaks

While not all leaks are considered plumbing emergencies, there are definitely some leaks that fall in this category. Some leaks can give away and cause ceilings to cave in. It’s important to be aware of the possible signs of leaks in your home and take care of the problem right away. If you notice water spots on your ceilings or your water bill has spiked, it’s time to call in a professional.

Some leaks simply can’t be avoided, especially as pipes begin to age, however you can put less stress on your pipes. Investing in a water softener can help since hard water causes a buildup of minerals that can cause blockages. Using less water is also another way to reduce the stress on pipes.

If the plumbing emergency cannot be contained, do contact a professional right away to avoid any further damage. At Pro Service Plumbing, we have been helping our customers with plumbing emergencies in Saskatoon for more than a decade and we believe in offering the best quality service that is supported by our years of experience. Call us at 306-230-2442 and speak with one of our professional plumbers today.