Things To Do While Waiting for the Plumber

There's nothing more inconvenient than a plumbing emergency, whether that's a leaking faucet, a clogged drain, or a burst pipe. While waiting for the plumber to arrive and save the day, you can take several precautionary steps to minimize damage and ensure a smoother resolution. Discover some essential things to do while waiting for the plumber.

Shut Off the Water Supply

In the frantic moments following a plumbing emergency, locating and shutting off the main water supply to your home becomes a critical task. Every homeowner should be familiar with the location of the shut-off valve, typically near the water meter. If you're unsure, take the time during non-emergency situations to locate it.

This simple action can save you from a significant amount of water damage and buy you time until the plumber arrives. Turning off the water supply is the first line of defense against further complications.

Drain the Remaining Water From the Lines

Once you've successfully shut off the main water supply, the next step is to drain any remaining water from the plumbing lines. Open faucets and flush toilets to reduce pressure in the pipes, minimizing the potential for additional leaks or damage. Capturing the draining water in buckets or containers is a practical step, making the cleanup process more manageable once the plumbing issue is resolved.

Turn Off Electricity

In plumbing emergencies, the risk of electrical hazards increases, especially if water is pooling near outlets or electrical appliances. As a precautionary measure, turn off the electricity in the affected area. This not only ensures your safety but also prevents potential damage to electronic devices. Safety should always be a top priority in any emergency.

Do Not Use Harmful Chemicals

In the urgency of a plumbing emergency, it's tempting to resort to chemical drain cleaners to address a clog quickly. However, chemical cleaners can cause further damage to pipes and complicate the plumber's efforts to diagnose and fix the issue. Allow the professional to handle the problem effectively without introducing additional complications.

Move Furniture From the Affected Area

If your plumbing emergency has resulted in water pooling on the floor, swift action to move furniture and valuable items away from the affected area is essential. This not only protects your belongings from potential damage but also facilitates the plumber's access to the issue. A clear workspace enables the professional to work more efficiently and address the problem more effectively.

Take Pictures

Take the time to document the affected area and any visible damage through photographs. These images serve as valuable documentation for insurance claims and provide the plumber with a visual understanding of the extent of the problem. Clear visuals contribute to more accurate assessments and more efficient solutions, ultimately streamlining the resolution process.

Note Past Issues

Take a moment to reflect on and note any relevant information about past plumbing issues in your home. This background information can offer valuable context to the plumber, potentially aiding in the identification of recurring issues or patterns. Being proactive in addressing plumbing problems can save you both time and money in the long run, preventing future emergencies through a better understanding of your home's plumbing history.

Don't Try To Fix It on Your Own

Plumbing systems can be complex, and fixing an issue requires a good understanding of how they work. Without the necessary expertise, you may make serious mistakes that can exacerbate the situation. 

Facing a plumbing emergency is undoubtedly stressful, but by implementing these proactive steps while waiting for the plumber, you not only minimize potential damage but also contribute to a more efficient resolution. Contact Calhoun Plumbing today for all your plumbing emergencies.