Why Everyone Needs an Emergency Plumbing Service They Can Count on This Winter
Winters provide austere beauty and the perfect conditions for great skiing, but they are certainly not for the faint of heart. Frigid temperatures, pop-up blizzards, and treacherous ice slicks can make anyone want to curl up by the fire for the duration. But even in the comfort of a warm home, the winter chill can have a negative impact in some unexpected ways. The home’s plumbing system is often hit the hardest, and the results can be disastrous.
These plumbing emergencies can strike at inopportune times, without much warning, and need to be resolved as quickly as possible. In some cases, the health and safety of everyone in the house depend on it. This is why it’s essential to employ a swift and reliable plumbing company that will show up when they’re needed most.
Preventing Needless Damage From a Burst Pipe
Burst pipes are the most common winter plumbing emergency. This occurs when water in a supply pipe freezes and expands, rupturing the pipe and releasing a geyser of water into the surrounding area.
This is almost entirely preventable through protective measures like insulation and winterization. But should it happen, the damage to the home can be extensive, especially if it goes unnoticed or unresolved for more than a few moments. In the event of a pipe break, the first thing to do is shut off the home’s main water valve, then immediately call a professional.
A Gas Leak Can Be Lethal
There are two types of gas leaks to watch out for, particularly in the winter months. The first is the natural gas used to power appliances. For instance, a gas-powered water heater will be working hard during the winter, and if the burners or pilot light should malfunction, gas may leak into the home, creating a deadly risk of poisoning or explosion.
The other type is a sewer gas leak. This can occur if a drain trap or sewer pipe has become cracked or clogged, if snow or other obstructions have blocked the home’s rooftop vent pipes, or if a septic system has frozen, to name a few. Besides having an incredibly offensive odor, sewer gas can contain ammonia and methane, among other harmful fumes. It is highly toxic and flammable and should be dealt with immediately.
Hazards of a Sewage Backup
A sewage backup is one of the most horrific plumbing emergencies a homeowner can face. Like sewer gas backflow, it can be caused by a ruptured or blocked drainage line (tree roots are one common culprit), septic system issues, or even a problem with the city sewer main. Liquid sewage (known as effluent) entering the home through the drains causes all sorts of problems, not just a terrible mess.
It can lead to the rapid growth of harmful mold and bacteria, stain fixtures, and ruin clothing, flooring, or carpeting. On the more serious side, sewage can carry numerous diseases such as giardia, E. coli, and Hepatitis, and any close contact can prove life-threatening.
Every homeowner should talk to their plumber about options for preventing these types of emergencies, such as pipe insulation, sewer line inspection, and backflow prevention devices. But just in case of some unforeseen plumbing nightmare, it pays to make sure they’ll be there in a pinch.
About B&L Plumbing
B&L Plumbing has served Colorado Springs, CO with pride since 1999. As a highly-rated, award-winning, veteran-owned company, they have a passion for community involvement and customer education. They gladly provide financing, competitive pricing, and 24/7 emergency service with no after-hours fee.
