When to Call an Emergency Plumber: 5 Urgent Plumbing Situations You Shouldn’t Ignore

While minor plumbing issues can wait, some situations demand immediate attention to prevent serious damage. From burst pipes to gas leaks, knowing when to call an emergency plumber can help you avoid costly repairs and safety hazards. Taking quick action at the right moment protects your property and also keeps everyone safe.

In this blog, we’ll cover five common plumbing emergencies that shouldn’t be ignored.

5 Common Plumbing Issues That Need an Emergency Plumber

Plumbing issues can happen anytime, and some need urgent attention. Here are 5 situations where calling an emergency plumber is the best move.

1.  Burst Pipes

Burst pipes can cause major damage in a short time. Water can spread quickly through your walls, floors, and ceiling. This can ruin furniture and cause serious structural issues. You might notice a sudden drop in water pressure or find unexplained puddles. If a pipe bursts, shut off your water supply immediately and call a plumber.

2. Blocked Drains

A blocked drain might not seem urgent at first. However, if water stops flowing or starts backing up or won’t drain, you could be facing a major blockage. Warning signs include bad smells, slow drainage, water pooling around drains, or even gurgling sounds from sinks or toilets. If left too long, blocked drains can lead to overflow or pipe damage. It’s best to get a plumber to clear the blockage before it gets worse.

3. Gas Leaks

Gas leaks are dangerous and should never be ignored. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound near your appliances, leave the area and call a licensed emergency plumber. Gas leaks can lead to serious health risks and even fires or explosions. A gas plumber will find the source of the leak, make it safe, and resolve the issue quickly.

4. Overflowing or Backed-up Toilet

A toilet that overflows or backs up can create a health hazard. This usually means there’s a blockage deep in the pipes that can’t be fixed with a plunger. Moreover, it can also lead to water damage if not handled quickly. If your toilet keeps filling or won’t flush properly, it’s time to call an expert plumber before it floods the bathroom.

5. No Hot Water

Losing hot water unexpectedly can be a big inconvenience, especially during winter. It might be due to a broken hot water system, gas supply issues, or something wrong with the pipes. If your water goes cold and you can’t fix it by checking the system, a professional can inspect and repair it precisely.

Preventing Plumbing Emergencies Before They Happen

Not all plumbing issues can be avoided. However, many common ones start small and can be prevented with regular care. By taking a few simple steps, you can reduce the risk of costly and stressful plumbing emergencies.

1. Check for Leaks Regularly:

   Small leaks can turn into bigger problems if ignored. Take a few minutes every now and then to check under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances. If you see water stains, rust, or mould, it might be a sign of a leak.

2. Don’t Pour Grease Down the Drain:

   Grease and oil harden in your pipes and cause blockages. Use a container to collect grease and throw it in the bin instead.

3. Use Drain Strainers:

   Hair, food scraps, and soap build-up are some of the biggest causes of blocked drains. Using strainers in sinks and showers helps keep them out of your pipes.

4. Know Your Main Shut-off Valve:

   In a plumbing emergency, turning off the water supply can help stop damage from spreading. Make sure you know where the main valve is and how to use it. Share this with everyone in your household or team at work.

5. Schedule Regular Maintenance:

   Even if nothing seems wrong, it’s smart to get a plumber to inspect your system once a year. They can catch early signs of wear, test water pressure, and check your hot water unit or gas line.

Get Fast, Reliable Emergency Plumbing Solutions with VCM Plumbing

Plumbing emergencies demand a reliable team that responds quickly. At VCM Plumbing, we offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services in Melbourne. With over 20 years of industry experience, our team provides prompt, professional services. Our team is fully licensed and insured, and we don’t charge a call-out fee; you only pay when we start the work.

We also offer ongoing maintenance services to help prevent future emergencies and keep your systems running smoothly. If you require urgent assistance or wish to schedule a maintenance check, call us now on 0438 073 355 or email us at info@vcmplumbing.com.au. For more details about our services, visit vcmplumbing.com.au.