A plumbing emergency can sneak up on you at any time, especially when you least expect it or when you are in the midst of entertaining. Plumbing emergencies always seem to have impeccable timing, and while you take all the necessary precautions and preventative measures to ensure that your plumbing system is in tip top shape, you can’t always prevent all plumbing emergencies. That’s why its important to know what to do and to have a plan in the event there ever is a plumbing emergency.
Stay Calm
First and foremost its important to stay calm during a plumbing emergency. Understandably, staying calm may be easier said than done when its raining inside your living room, but panicking
isn’t going to make things any better. Take a couple of moments to collect your thoughts and take a few deep breaths. Don’t let panic clog your judgment. You will be better able to cope with a stressful plumbing emergency if you do your best to remain calm.
Shut Off Water Supply
Once you have gathered your wits the next thing you want to do is to shut off the water supply. Depending the severity of the plumbing emergency this could be the local shut off behind the toilet or under the sink, or the main water supply if its a large plumbing emergency. You should familiarize yourself with where the main water shut off valve to your house is located before you are faced with a plumbing emergency. That way you can swiftly shut off the water supply before more damage occurs. The main water shut off valve could be located somewhere along the foundation of your home, or in the ground in front of your house. If you are unsure with how to located the main water shut off valve you can contact the water district and they can help you locate it.
Protect Your Home and Belongings
After you turn off the water supply you will want to do a little damage control. This mean protecting the rest of your home and belonging from water damage. Put plastic over your belongings and remove your personal belongings from the area. Water damage can be pretty extensive when it comes to a plumbing emergency. You not only have to think about the actual damage from the water but also mold and the associated health risks of a plumbing emergency.
Call Your Plumber
When preparing for a plumbing emergency you should also have the number of your local plumbing company handy. Keep the number on your refrigerator or in your cell phone so it is easily accessible in case there is a plumbing emergency. The last thing you want to do is sift through a bunch of listings when you are dealing with a plumbing emergency. Lesco Plumbing and Heating is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week and can help you with all of your plumbing and heating service needs. For more information click here.
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