Plumbing Emergency or No? – Know When to Call for Help

Some issues that happen around the house are obvious signs of a need for emergency repair. Others may be less obvious but still require immediate (or close-to-immediate) attention. Fortunately, you don’t have to figure out the difference on your own. Read on to learn how to determine whether you should or shouldn’t call an emergency plumber based on what’s happening. 

Serious Water Leaks: Emergency 

If you have a serious water leak that can’t be stopped, you need an emergency plumber. Even if you can turn the water off, a serious leak may require serious immediate attention. If there are damaged or burst pipes, it’s even more critical to get help right away. Always call for emergency assistance when there’s a lot of water involved. 

Small, Stoppable Leaks: Not Necessarily an Emergency 

Is your tub drain leaking? Perhaps your kitchen trap is loose or caked with buildup and needs some TLC. These issues are important to get addressed as soon as possible, but they may not necessitate an emergency. 

Sewer Backup: Emergency 

Sewer backup is always an emergency, no questions asked. 

Water Backup: May or May Not Be an Emergency 

If you have water backing up from the storm sewers or flooding in your basement, it might not necessarily require the intervention of a plumber. The waters will usually recede on their own in these situations, and once they have, you can survey the damage and determine whom you need to call. 

Sagging Ceilings: Emergency 

Sagging ceilings are a sign of serious water damage, and could lead to further damage and even collapse. For that reason, if you notice any serious sags that are saturated with water, you should call a plumber right away. 

Low Water Pressure: Not an Emergency 

Low water pressure could be a sign that there’s something going on with your plumbing. However, it’s not usually something that requires an emergency visit. If you can’t identify the source of the issue, ask for an appointment as soon as possible so that you don’t have to pay the emergency fee. 

Not Sure? Call a Plumber Anyway

It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to a critical system like your home’s plumbing. If you’re not sure whether or not you have a plumbing emergency on hand, feel free to call Elk Grove Village Sewer & Plumbing anyway. They can advise you whether you need emergency service or if you can skip the high fees and wait for a regular appointment. Plus, they’ll give you peace of mind in knowing that things are fixed properly for fewer issues in the future.