While it’s true there are some plumbing problems you may be able to fix on your own, it's important to know when to call a professional. A licensed, professional plumber will not only be able to diagnose and repair plumbing problems quickly, they’ll ensure that everything is working properly so you don’t have to worry about recurring problems.
When to Call the Plumber
So when should you call a plumber? Here are some typical situations when you need professional plumbing services:
1. No Water
If you wake up with no water one morning, call your neighbors and a plumber. Your local water company will usually notify you when there are planned service interruptions. If your neighbors have water and you don’t, you’ll want a plumber to immediately locate and resolve the problem.
If your water company hasn't turned off the water for repairs, there are several possible problems that could lead to no water flowing inside your home including an underground water main break, severe blockage, or a broken pipe somewhere in your plumbing system.
2. No Hot Water
If you have cold water but no hot water, it’s likely a water heater problem. The system may require maintenance, or it could be time for a replacement. Repairs to hot water heaters should be done by licensed plumbers. They have the training and experience to work with both water and gas line connections and can safely make repairs or install a new water heater if necessary.
3. Burst Pipe
A burst pipe can quickly lead to flooding and extensive property damage. Many pipes are located inside walls, ceilings and floors, which makes locating and repairing a burst pipe challenging for DIYers. As soon as you notice a burst pipe, turn off the water main and call a plumber. A licensed plumber will have the right tools and training to locate a burst pipe and make lasting repairs.
4. Frozen Pipe
It’s wise to call a professional plumber before a frozen pipe cracks or bursts, rather than attempting to thaw it yourself. If you attempt to begin the thawing process on your own, there are several precautions to take. A burst pipe can cause extensive water damage so it’s important to thaw pipes slowly and carefully. Thawing frozen pipes is best left to a professional since repairs are frequently needed.
5. Sudden Loss of Water Pressure
Low water pressure in one fixture, such as a faucet, may be a clogged aerator. This is simple to fix by unscrewing the aerator and cleaning out the sediment. If cleaning out an aerator doesn’t solve the problem or if the pressure is low in more than one fixture, you may have a bigger problem. A sudden loss of water pressure throughout an entire home is often caused by a frozen or burst pipe.
6. Frequent Clogs
An occasional clog that can be easily cleared with a plunger is common and is usually no cause for concern. However, if you have frequent, recurring clogs or a clog you can’t easily clear, it's time to call a plumber.
A professionally trained technician can use a camera probe to look deep inside pipes and drains to locate blockages and clogs. Tree roots invading underground sewer pipes are a common cause of clogs. This situation needs professional services to successfully resolve.
7. Overflowing Toilet
If you have an overflowing toilet, first turn off the water valve. A simple clog may be resolved with the right technique and a good plunger. If a few plunges don’t clear the clog, stop and call a plumber. The problem could be a deeper blockage too large to clear with a typical home plunger.
Repeated unsuccessful attempts at plunging can actually damage a toilet. Chemical drain products should not be used. They rarely resolve a serious clog and contain caustic chemicals that are harmful to both people and plumbing fixtures.
8. Rattling Pipes
Pipes should be quiet unless a faucet or water appliance is running. A rattling or knocking sound in pipes could be an issue called water hammer. A water hammer results from an abrupt stoppage or change in direction of water flow, causing a shockwave that makes loose pipes bang against obstacles such as a wall. These noises can also be the result of poorly secured pipes. A professional plumber will be able to locate and correct the problem.
9. Visible Leaks
Leaky faucets should never be ignored. Even a small leak can quickly waste hundreds of gallons of water. According to the US Geological Survey, one leaky toilet can waste up to 8,000 gallons of water per year.
Leaking toilets, faucets or other fixtures need to be repaired to save water and prevent expensive water damage. If you can’t successfully fix a leaky fixture on your own, calling a plumber will save you money in the long run.
10. Sewage Odors
A strong sewage odor inside a home is a sign of a big plumbing problem. Drain pipes that aren’t properly ventilated, blockages in underground sewer lines, and backups caused by heavy rainfall are just a few things that can lead to a buildup of sewage odors. Whenever you smell sewage odors inside your home, it’s time to call a plumber to locate and resolve the problem.
11. Slow Drains
Sinks, bathtubs and showers should all drain quickly. Slow drainage is often caused by an accumulation of soap scum and hair buildup inside drains.
If you notice only one slow moving drain, you may be able to clear the clog using a few simple DIY techniques. When numerous drains are slow, it’s often a sign of a significant clog developing deep within the plumbing system and it’s time to call for professional help.
12. Kitchen or Bathroom Remodeling
If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel, you’ll want to make sure your plumbing system is up to current code and working in an efficient, cost-effective manner. Just replacing sinks and other fixtures without ensuring that the existing piping and connections are sound is never recommended.
A professional plumber will not only be able to make sure everything works the way it should, they’ll be able to offer valuable advice and help keep renovation costs down.
Call the Trusted Plumber in Los Gatos
Don’t wait until you have an emergency situation to find a plumbing company you can trust. The last thing you want to do when you have a plumbing problem is to start searching for a plumber.
The professionals at Simply Green Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter have the training and experience to handle all of your plumbing needs. Call us at (408) 716-1686 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
Our technicians have over 30 years of plumbing experience. We understand that plumbing issues can happen at any time, that’s why we offer emergency plumbing services at no extra cost.