If you’re like most Portlanders, you probably don’t think about plumbing until a problem pops up; when the problem becomes an emergency, it’s usually too late! That’s why it’s crucial to have a Portland emergency plumber at hand to handle the problem.
Here’s everything you need to know about plumbing emergencies.
Don’t Panic
Remember, stay put and do not panic when you have a plumbing emergency. Try to identify the source of the leak or blockage and take steps to fix it if you can.
Usually, the first step is to shut off the water supply from the main valve at your home or shut off individual faucets; This will help prevent further damage. However, if the problem is a wastewater blockage, do not fix it. Call a professional right away, as black water can cause serious health problems.
It is dangerous, especially if the water gets into contact with live wires. To protect your appliances from unwanted electric currents, you also want to disconnect all appliances that use water, such as the washing machine or dishwasher.
Find an Emergency Plumber in Portland, OR
The next step is finding a professional plumber. Well, if you don’t know any local companies, try calling the American Society of Plumbing Engineers or visit their website. They can help you locate an emergency plumbing company near you.
However, if it’s outside regular business hours, be prepared to pay a premium for services. That’s because many companies offer 24-hour service but charge higher rates after regular hours.
Once you’ve found a plumber, ensure you have the following information ready:
- The nature of the emergency
- Your contact information
- The location of the problem
- Any tools or equipment they may need to fix it
Be sure to tell the plumber that you have an emergency and ask them to advise you of any special instructions. For example, some types of clogs require a different approach than others. And if you give the correct information, the plumber will arrive with all the required equipment.
Call your insurance company right away if your home has suffered water damage from flooding or leaks, as they can help you start the recovery process.
Save the Plumber’s Contact for Another Emergency
One thing you don’t want to do is wait until the last minute to find a plumber. If you have an emergency, chances are you’ll need one again soon. That’s why it’s a good idea to save the contact information for a local plumber on your phone. You never know when something will go wrong.
However, this does not mean you can rely on only one plumber. Have a few numbers handy, so you can call another one if the first is busy.
Also, don’t hesitate to ask friends and family for recommendations. You never know when someone will be having an issue with their home or business that requires emergency plumbing services.
Clean the Mess
Once the plumber has fixed the problem, you must clean up any messes they make, including replacing drywall, insulation, and anything else that may have been damaged. Thus calling a company that specializes in water damage restoration.
The good thing about this is that if you live in a flood zone, your insurance policy may cover the cost of having mold removed from your home. So it’s worth calling them to see!
If there is any sewage backup, it will be imperative to use professional cleaners because bacteria can be hazardous.
If you are looking at a septic system, have it inspected as soon as possible after any water damage occurs in your home or business. And if there’s been flooding from outside sources such as rivers and streams, do not go near them without wearing protective gear like rubber boots and gloves!
Don’t Forget to Turn Things Back on After You’re Done!
After the plumbers have fixed your emergency plumbing, don’t forget to turn everything back on! This includes your water, gas, and electricity. You’ll be surprised at how many times people call the plumber back because they forgot to turn something on. And you don’t want to be that person!
Once you’ve turned everything back on, it’s time for one last checkup. Go through your entire house and make sure everything is functioning as it should be. If there’s any issue whatsoever, call the plumber right away so they can take a look.
Remember, plumbing emergencies can be stressful, but following these steps will help minimize the damage. Stay calm and think through the problem. Then take action to shut off the water and find a professional plumber. By being prepared, you can minimize the damage caused by a plumbing emergency.
