Plumbing issues can sneak up at the most inconvenient times and, with little warning, can lead to a major crisis. For homeowners and property managers in Memphis experiencing a sudden plumbing emergency, time is of the essence. Taking quick and decisive action prevents further damage and saves on costly repairs.
Common plumbing emergencies include:
- Burst pipes: Broken pipes can cause extensive water damage to your home. An immediate response is essential to mitigate destruction.
- Sewer backups: One of the messiest and most hazardous situations a homeowner can face, sewer backups can be a health hazard, making swift action crucial.
- Water heater failures: No hot water can bring daily activities to a halt, and sometimes, a faulty water heater can also be a source of leaks and overflows.
Read our blog to learn more about recognizing a plumbing emergency and what to do when confronted with one.
Recognizing Common Plumbing Emergencies
Not all plumbing issues require immediate attention, but some instances necessitate the urgent care of a seasoned professional. But how do you know when a plumbing issue is a genuine emergency or when you can wait until the next regular repair appointment?
The following signs indicate that you should contact our team for 24/7 emergency plumbing repairs:
- Flooded Areas: Standing water in places where it shouldn’t be is a telltale sign.
- Foul Odors: Unpleasant smells, like sewage, could indicate a blockage or backup.
- No Water Supply: Suddenly finding yourself without water points to a significant issue within your system.
- Strange Noises: Gurgling or banging from pipes can signal a pressing problem.
Immediate Actions to Take
Even with emergency plumbing service on the way, you can still do things before our plumbers arrive to help protect your home and ensure your and your family's safety. This is especially true if you are dealing with a flooding situation.
In the event of encountering any of the above plumbing emergencies, here are some steps to take immediately:
- Shutting off the Main Water Valve: This should be your first move to prevent further water damage.
- Turning off Gas Supply: If you suspect a gas leak or have issues with a gas plumbing appliance, shut off your gas supply immediately.
- Turning Off the Power: When dealing with a plumbing flood, immediately cut the power to affected areas to prevent electrical hazards. Remember, water conducts electricity, and ensuring your safety before addressing the plumbing issue is essential.
After stopping the flow of water and ensuring your safety, your next steps should be to mitigate water damage. Move all valuables, furniture, and electronics away from the affected area to dry locations. If safe, use towels or mops to absorb standing water, and increase airflow with fans or dehumidifiers to help dry out damp areas. It's crucial to promptly document the damage by taking photos or videos for insurance claims before any cleanup begins.
Also, remember to wear protective gear, such as gloves and boots, to avoid contact with potentially contaminated water.
Smith's Plumbing Services Is Here to Help
When in doubt, it's better to be safe and let an expert tackle complex or dangerous issues. If you're grappling with a plumbing catastrophe, don’t hesitate to contact Smith's Plumbing Services. With our 24/7 emergency plumbing services, we’ve got your back—any time, any day, anywhere across Memphis.
When the situation requires a professional, choose Smith's Plumbing Services. We have:
- 10 Years of Expertise: Rest assured with a decade of experience under our belts.
- Community Trust: Locally renowned and well-respected.
- 24/7 Availability: Day or night, we’re here for you with fully stocked vans.
- Financing Options: We offer flexible payment solutions.
- Residential & Commercial: Our expertise spans both home and business environments.
Contact us now and rest easy knowing your emergency is in skilled hands.