Important Vs. Urgent Plumbing Issues - What’s the Difference?
As many homeowners know all too well, plumbing issues and mishaps are among the most frustrating and stressful experiences one can face in daily life. Some issues can hijack the whole day, and others can seem downright apocalyptic. But not all homeowners are clear on what problems constitute an emergency and what problems, as unpleasant as they are, may not be as dire as they seem.
After all, no one wants to call an emergency plumber service in the middle of the night just to find out the problem could have waited until morning. On the other hand, for urgent issues, failure to take immediate action can have disastrous consequences. Read on to learn the critical distinction between urgent and important plumbing issues.
Urgent - Water Pipe Is Broken
One example of an urgent problem is a broken water pipe. It may seem obvious to call a plumber when a pipe bursts, but many homeowners attempt to resolve the issue themselves with a quick patch job, which only delays the inevitable and risks damaging the plumbing. Duct tape has many uses but sealing a ruptured pipe is not one of them!
Since the water in a home’s supply lines is under constant pressure, a breakage can release massive amounts of water in a very short time. Depending on the location of the rupture, the resulting damage can be catastrophic. But even if the homeowners act quickly and shut off the flow of water to the house, the home will be without water until the problem is resolved - so the sooner a professional can arrive, the better.
Important - Toilet Is Clogged
One problem that many people mistake for an emergency is a clogged toilet. That’s not to say it isn’t an important issue - it’s definitely nothing to scoff at and shouldn’t be ignored. But as long as it’s not overflowing or leaking, a clogged toilet doesn’t really pose an urgent threat to the home or anyone in it.
In most cases, the water in the bowl serves as a barrier against any harmful waste in the drain, and there’s little risk of a major issue developing overnight as a result of the clog. The homeowners may even be able to resolve it on their own with the help of a plunger! Of course, if it’s the home’s only toilet and the clog is particularly stubborn, this one can safely be moved into the “urgent” category.
Urgent - Sewage System Is Backed Up
Another situation that undoubtedly qualifies as an emergency is a sewage system backup. The home’s sewage drain lines can back up due to a clog or rupture (tree roots and congealed grease are common culprits), a flooded septic tank or drain field, or an overflowing storm drain system. No matter the cause, the result is not just disgusting but also dangerous.
Sewage and wastewater can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites and can even release toxic natural gases into the air. When it backs up out of the home’s drains, it puts everyone in the house at risk. Homeowners facing a sewage backup should stay out of the affected areas, avoid putting any more water down the drains, and immediately get in touch with a trusted emergency plumber.
About The Plumbing & Air Service Co.
The Plumbing & Air Service Co. has been serving Greensboro, North Carolina, with pride since 1997. Their licensed technicians are courteous and respectful experts who can handle any residential or commercial job. They offer 24/7 emergency service, up-front pricing, and a total satisfaction guarantee on every call. For emergency plumbing services in Greensboro, NC, there's no better team to call than The Plumbing & Air Service Co.
