You could be on the sofa watching old episodes of “Seinfeld.” You could be having a family dinner with your extended cousins (twice removed). You could be playing backgammon with your spouse. Then, out of nowhere, your plumbing starts acting up, causing a headache.
Whether your kitchen sinking is flooded or your toilet isn’t flushing, a plumbing emergency can be a real drag on your household affairs. This is especially true if you have a teenager…
Although many plumbers in your neighbourhood offer 24/7 service, sometimes you can’t wait an hour or two because it’s getting worse by the minute. It is up to you to fix your plumbing issues, even if you don’t have any plumbing experience. So, grab your tools, your plunger and your DIY hat, and get ready to fix your toilet. Here are five plumbing emergency tips that you can try out:
1. Shut Off the Main Water Valve
If your dishwasher is leaking out water or your kitchen tap is spraying water, the very first thing you must do is turn off the main water valve. This is essential, otherwise you will not be able to effectively remedy the problem, even if it is for a short period of time.
Do you know where the main water valve is? Good. If not, teach yourself now!
2. Duct Tape & Leak Sealing Tape Are Must-Haves
When you are biding your time for a permanent solution, it would be wise to have some duct tape and leak sealing tape handy. Indeed, they are must-haves for any DIYer or even professional plumber. These are as important to have as a plunger.
3. A Bucket of Hot Water & a Plunger Are the Solutions
As you attempt to solve your toilet clog, you try to think of complex measures to employ.
Well, this isn’t necessary; sometimes the basics are just as effective.
Take your plunger, place it in the toilet water and plunge up and down (don’t do it hard). If this isn’t working, grab some gloves and try to take out some of the guck that’s stuck inside. Moreover, remove most of the water and place it in a bucket.
Once this is complete, use your bucket of hot water and slowly pour it down the toilet drain.
This will eliminate all of the excess water and remedy the issue until a plumber arrives.
4. Does Your Sump Pump Even Work?
Here is a simple question: does your sump pump even work?
This is an important question to present because the efficacy of your sump ump will determine if your plumbing is up to par. Whether it is during the emergency or on a random Saturday afternoon, you should perform an inspection of your sump pump – ensure there’s a vertical float switch, untangle any cords and confirm if everything is working without difficulties.
5. Yes, Your Smartphone Will Help You, Too
The Internet provides us with an extensive library of information. It isn’t all cat photos, pornography and belligerent Twitter users. As you’re attempting to fix your plumbing, make sure you have your smartphone with you so you can find YouTube videos or articles that can offer you tips and tricks. Don’t be embarrassed. Remember, there are millions of other people who have suffered the same fate as yours. There are also plumbers and companies who record YouTube videos to give you some suggestions on common setbacks.
When we think of DIY, we tend to conjure up images installing a front porch, putting together a backyard setting or renovating the bathroom. But plumbing? Well, not so much. Plumbing emergencies happen. Yes, a plumber is available at any time of the day, but if they’re not available in a matter of minutes, your home’s plumbing can only worsen. This is why it is important to try to fix it almost immediately.
