Plumbing issues have the tendency to strike at the worst possible time. Once this happens, you could decide to fix it yourself. On the other hand, you may opt to call in the experts. Your decision between the two will usually depend on the severity of the challenge you are facing.
Minor problems like clogged drains are easily handled as DIY. However, others like burst pipes demand the expertise of a licensed professional. With this in mind, it’s important that you know the things you could fix by yourself. You should also have a good comprehension of what may be deemed as serious plumbing emergencies. This is key because it helps you avoid unnecessary expenses or further damage.
This article breaks down some of the most common issues faced by Howell homeowners. It also helps you determine which ones are safe to tackle on your own and which ones require an emergency plumber.
Our Emergency Plumbing Services In Howell, NJ
Common DIY Plumbing Fixes You Can Handle Yourself
Not every challenge requires a specialist. Here are some things you could handle by yourself.
Unclogging Drains
A slow-draining sink or tub is quite easy to fix. You can do this using a plunger or a drain snake. A mix of baking soda and vinegar also gets the job done quite well for you. These solutions fix minor blockages caused by soap scum or grease buildup. For hair clogs, a simple plastic drain or even a bent wire hanger helps pull out the trapped debris.
Once the drain is unclogged, all you need to do is flush it with hot water. This helps to make sure that everything flows smoothly.
To prevent future blockages, consider using drain strainers. Such tools do an excellent job of catching hair and food particles.
Fixing Leaky Faucets
A dripping faucet is usually caused by a worn-out washer or cartridge. These components are quite inexpensive. They can also be easily replaced using a few basic tools. With this in mind, you can’t afford to ignore a leak. This is because it wastes gallons of water over time. It also increases your utility bills. Therefore, consider fixing leaky faucets as soon as you notice them.
All you need to do is turn off the water supply and disassemble the faucet. The next thing is to replace and reassemble. Such a quick fix saves you a lot of time and money.
Warning Signs That Require an Emergency Plumber
There are situations that can only be fixed by a professional. Some of these include:
Sewage Backups
You may notice foul odors coming from drains or slow drainage across multiple fixtures. You may also find that raw sewage is backing into sinks or toilets. These are clear indicators that you are dealing with a serious blockage. It may even show failure in your main sewer line. This challenge is a major health hazard. This is because of the high risk of contamination and exposure to harmful bacteria.
You shouldn’t attempt DIY in this situation. This is because it ends up worsening the problem. It may even put your health at risk. Instead, consider entrusting experts. They have the needed expertise to fix the issue before any further damage occurs.
Burst Pipes
A sudden burst pipe can release gallons of water in minutes. It even causes severe water damage to your property. Some warning signs to be on the look out for include a sudden drop in water pressure and strange gurgling noises. You may also see water stains on ceilings and walls or puddles forming where they shouldn’t.
If you see such signs, consider shutting off the main water supply. The next thing to do is call in the experts right away.
How Just Drains NJ Can Help
In case of a plumbing emergency in Howell, consider reaching out to us. At Just Drains NJ, we are available around the clock. We can hence restore your home’s plumbing system quickly and safely at any time. We have years of experience handling major challenges. You should hence trust us to deliver an excellent service.
As a homeowner in Howell, you will definitely experience plumbing issues once in a while. Therefore, you need to know what you can handle by yourself and what you can’t. Minor issues like a clogged drain or a dripping faucet may be manageable on your own. However, serious shortcomings like burst pipes and sewage require professional attention.
When not able to handle a problem by yourself, consider reaching out to us. At Just Drains NJ, we are ready to be your emergency plumber in Howell.
