Some might think that plumbing can be a DIY job. Many people might feel comfortable taking a look at a dripping faucet to see if they can figure out what’s wrong or attempting to unclog a toilet on their own. Yet there are some jobs that should be left strictly to the professionals.
Burst Pipes
Burst pipes not only pose an inconvenience to homeowners but can also cause tremendous damage to homes. When dealing with burst pipes, it is always best to consult a professional. A plumber might be able to help with unfreezing the pipe and also be able to fix the pipe.
If you are faced with a burst pipe, there are several steps that you can take while waiting for an emergency plumber to arrive. First, shut off the water. The more there is to flow, the more flood damage there can be. When water freezes, it actually expands close to ten percent. This force can cause pipes to break and burst. Sometimes this occurs where the ice actually forms but other times, it just forms where the weakest part of the pipe already is.
After shutting the water off, consider opening the faucet. This will help to relieve pressure. If a leak has yet to occur, turn up the heat to thaw the pipe. If the leak as already occurred, start cleanup efforts. Cleaning up the water and drying out the area as much as possible helps to eliminate the possibility of mould, which can be a health risk. To prevent other frozen or burst pipes, consider opening up all cabinet doors while waiting for professional help. This will allow warm air to reach the pipes.
Once professionals arrive, they may need to cut into the wall to get to the pipe and repair it. The plumber may attach a clamp of some kind to stop any leaks. Eventually, he or she will cut a piece of the pipe out, add a replacement piece of pipe, and solder it together. From that point forward, take preventative measures to minimise the risk of a burst pipe happening again.
Leaking Pipes
Another service that warrants a call to a professional plumber in Fareham is leaking pipes. Leaking pipes can also cause damage and mould growth over time. This can cause problems with the air quality in your home and can even compromise some of the structural elements of your home if they get damaged by water and rot.
Homeowners may go long periods of time before even recognising that they have leaks. One way to monitor for potential leaks is watching your water bill. If your water bill starts climbing and your usage hasn’t changed, consider contacting a professional to come and check out your pipes. There is a good chance that you have a leak that hasn’t been addressed.
