A plumbing emergency is quite stressful. Whether it's a running toilet, burst pipes, or drain blockages, such situations require immediate action. Primarily, you might get nervous, but the steps you take before a plumber arrives offer practical solutions to keep your home safe. 

Here we will outline essential and straightforward actions to take before a plumber in Orpington arrives to offer situation-specific plumbing services. Staying calm and being proactive can help prevent upcoming plumbing-related problems, making the plumber's job much easier and quicker once they arrive on-site.  

Stay Cool And Active 

Plumbing emergencies are unpredictable and require immediate attention. It's also essential to remain calm and act proactively to manage such situations before plumbers in Lewisham arrive on-site. Without being stressful, try to evaluate the situation appropriately. After gathering some basic information about the problem, you should call a professional plumber to describe it in detail. Also, tell them which fixtures are affected and for how long. While the best plumbing service team is on the way, there are some crucial steps you can take in the meantime. 

Turn Off Electricity Near Water 

Water and electricity are a deadly combination. If the leak is near electrical appliances, outlets, or wires, turn off the power at the circuit breaker immediately. It's always ideal to be cautious to avoid the risk of electric shock or a short circuit. 

 Shut Off the Main Water Supply 

A crucial step you can take during a plumbing emergency is to shut off the water supply immediately. This can help you avoid significant water damage and prevent this problem from getting worse. Most houses have the main water shut-off valve located near the water meter, often near the basement, garage or in front of the house. Turn the valve clockwise to cut off the water supply. If you can't detect it, you can call a plumber to ask for quick guidance. 

In some cases, the problem may be separated from a specific fixture, such as a running toilet or a leaking sink. In this case, you can turn off the local shut-off valve that is located below or behind it. 

Empty The Remaining Water 

Even after shutting off the main water valve, water in the pipe can still cause problems. You can overcome the pressure and prevent further leaks by opening all the taps in the house. Don't forget to flush toilets and drain outside spigots as well. This simple step reduces excess water, helping your plumber to fix your problems more efficiently. 

Read More:- 10 Essential Plumbing Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Try To Identify Leaks (If Required) 

If you can identify the source of leaks, you can take steps to contain them. After detecting them, use towels, buckets, or even plumber's tape or clamps to prevent them. The objective is to prevent or slow down leaks to reduce water damage. Taking notes of your observations can help the plumber to understand the situation and prepare the right tools to offer practical plumbing services. 

 Clean The Work Area 

Time is vital during a plumbing crisis. Before an expert arrives, remove all obstacles around the affected area, anything that gets in the way of a quick repair. This small step can save your time when a plumber arrives and let them evaluate and fix the concern speedily.  

Clean Your Toilet (If Applicable) 

If the plumbing emergency involves a running toilet, it's a good idea to clean it as much as possible. While hiring a plumber to manage such unpleasant conditions, you need to show courtesy and make the space more workable for them. When sewage is involved, consider wearing gloves and using a disinfectant to prevent the spread of germs. 

Ventilate The Spot 

Leaks and overflows often result in moisture, which can lead to mould growth if not treated immediately. Try to open doors and windows to improve ventilation. If available, start the fans or use a dehumidifier to dry the area. Standing water should be removed using a mop, towels or a vacuum. A moisture meter can help identify damp spots hidden behind walls or under floors, especially when there is a leak. 

 Try To Understand The Cause 

When waiting for the plumber to arrive, it's essential to evaluate the cause of your plumbing emergency. Whether a pipe bursts due to extreme cold or blocked drains, this will help you explain the situation to your plumbing service provider and indicate whether a temporary repair or complete replacement is necessary. Be aware of any strange noises, visible rust, or previous plumbing issues in the area. All of this data is useful to the plumber, who can ask about the age of your plumbing system and the materials used in your pipes. 

 Prepare A List Of Questions To Ask 

During a plumbing emergency, it's easy to skip asking about things that may be important later. So, don't forget to prepare a list of questions for your plumber before they arrive on-site. Here are some of the most important questions to ask them: 

  • What is the root cause of the problem? 
  • How to prevent such a plumbing crisis?  
  • Are there any signs that I should look out for in the future? 
  • Will this repair require ongoing maintenance? 

Being informed helps you stay prepared and make the best decisions for your home's plumbing system.  

Conclusion 

A plumbing emergency is never predictable, but the steps you take before the plumber arrives can make all the difference. These actions protect your home and your safety, from shutting off the main water supply and electricity to draining water and ventilating the space. Remember to stay calm, work quickly and be ready. And when the emergency is under control, you can ask the plumbing service team for the long-term solution to keep your plumbing system in good health.