A plumbing emergency can happen at any time – often when it’s least convenient. Even a small plumbing problem, such as a minor leak, needs to be fixed. Taking care of any plumbing problem as soon as possible can prevent larger and more expensive problems later.
Following are some common plumbing issues and what to do while you are waiting for the experts to repair them.
Broken pipes or leaking water. If water is leaking from a visibly broken pipe, it is important to shut off the water supply to that pipe. If the issue is associated with an appliance, such as a washing machine or dishwasher, you may be able to locate an individual shut-off valve. If you have this valve, shut it off. If not, you may have to shut off the water main. Make sure that you know where your water main valve is located; ask your plumber if you don’t. Shutting off a water main may cause damage to your plumbing, so only do it in a real emergency.
Leaking water heater. Turn off the inlet water valve, and also turn off the gas or electricity supply.
Overflowing toilet. If your toilet is overflowing, the first step is to turn off the toilet’s individual water valve. It is usually located under the bowl. Once the water is shut off to the toilet, lift the lid from the toilet tank and make sure that the rubber flapper at the base of the tank is closed. If the hole at the bottom of the tank is not completely covered, water will continue to flow. As a last resort you can try to lift the float ball with your hands. Be careful not to damage anything if you do this.
If you have any questions concerning a plumbing emergency, please contact the home repair experts at Around the Clock Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc. We have been serving the home care needs of the Los Angeles area since 1967.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Los Angeles, North Hollywood and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about plumbing emergencies and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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