Knowing the difference between a plumbing emergency service and something that can be fixed with a standard call-out can save you money and stress. Some plumbing problems can be inconvenient, but they’re not bona fide emergencies and in such...
Knowing the difference between a plumbing emergency service and something that can be fixed with a standard call-out can save you money and stress. Some plumbing problems can be inconvenient, but they’re not bona fide emergencies and in such cases, we recommend waiting to book the repair during regular business hours.
But what is emergency plumbing, and how do you know the difference? We share information to help you triage the problem. We also provide some useful advice on how to better manage the situation until trained professional plumbers arrive on the job.
Otherwise, rely on Killara Plumbing – we’ll be there in no time to sort this out and provide peace of mind. We’re based in Chatswood but we service all the North Shore and wider Sydney.
Call us for hot water emergency service – 1300 854 391
A faulty hot water service needs emergency plumbing
If your hot water service breaks down over winter, we consider it an urgent job. In some rare cases, a leaking hot water system can signal pressure building up, which could lead to an imminent gas explosion.
If you can see the leak or hear strange noises coming from the equipment, don’t second guess or try to DIY the problem. You might need replacement parts or a completely new system, depending on your hot water model. This can take time (which could spell several ice-cold showers), so don’t delay.
Reasons hot water services break down
There could be many reasons leading to your system packing it in. These range from one small part breaking down and causing a domino effect, a drop in temperature freezing pipes, a build-up of sledge and dirt, to simply a system that has reached its use-by date.
How to manage a broken hot water system
Hot water systems should undergo regular maintenance checks every year. Despite this, they can still throw curveballs. Turn off power or gas if it’s safe to do so. Locate the water shut-off valve and turn it off (in a clockwise direction) as well. Then call us!
Call us for North Shore emergency gas repairs – 1300 854 391
An emergency gas plumber is crucial for any leaks
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a significant threat to life, so never double-guess. The moment you have even the remote inkling of a gas leak, you must act fast (more of which we explain below). The smell of sulfur, the sudden onset of headaches or nausea and even plants suddenly dying or looking worse for wear are all signs you may need an emergency gas plumber.
Possible gas leak causes
Leaking gas can result from dodgy or ageing equipment, questionable servicing and repair, faulty parts, loose valves, bad ventilation, corrosion of parts, poor-fitting connectors or damaged gas lines.
How to manage gas leaks
The best way to manage a gas leak is to leave it to expert gas plumbers. Legally, you must ensure this work is undertaken by a fully qualified professional (Killara Plumbing certainly is!). Ideally, you want to turn off electricity mains immediately provided you can do so safely. You and all other occupants and pets must vacate the building immediately. If it is safe to do so, open any windows as you leave so that air can circulate. Call us immediately, and we will advise if you need to ring emergency services.
Contact our Sydney 24/7 local emergency plumber – 1300 854 391
An overflowing toilet calls for an emergency plumber
This kind of plumbing emergency can be unsightly and embarrassing at best and unhealthy, destructive and costly at worst. Given it’s only a matter of hours until nature calls for someone in the household, toilet repair is a job that needs fixing fast.
Reasons for an overflowing or blocked toilet
So many things might cause your toilet to block and overflow. Trying to flush objects other than the three Ps (pee, poo and toilet paper) and blocking the trap or sewer line, low water levels in the tank, a faulty flapper or flush valve, improper toilet installation in the first place, mineral build up and even North Shore Sydney’s destructive tree roots can all result in blockages or overflows.
How to manage an overflowing or clogged toilet
Assuming you have already tried to unclog the toilet but to no avail, shut off its water supply to prevent further leaking and wait for the professionals to arrive.
Contact the North Shore’s best emergency plumber – call 1300 854 391
Burst water pipes need plumbing emergency services
A burst pipe can result in massive water loss, which is figuratively money rushing down the drain. Water damage to your home (and subsequent costs) can quickly rise if the pipe causes flooding (highly likely). You need to act fast to minimise the damage and mitigate the risk of electrocution.
Reasons for burst pipes
Many factors can lead to your pipes bursting. These include freezing outside temperatures causing pipes to expand and then suddenly crack, Sydney tree roots wreaking havoc underground, ageing pipes and blockages resulting in pressure build-up.
How to manage burst pipe damage
If you can safely reach the electricity mains supply, switch off power immediately. This will ensure no chance of electrocution, which is a genuine threat in such circumstances.
Interested to read more? Read our blog piece about how to avoid calling a plumber in the first place!
When to avoid calling emergency plumbers
We hope the above has helped you determine what is considered a plumbing emergency. But when should you not call our 24/7 service? General plumbing problems like a leaking tap, slow drainage system or clogged pipes can all be fixed during a 9 to 5 service, provided you have not let them carry on for too long. If you’re still not quite sure, just call us. Our friendly team is here to help you triage the situation and get your home plumbing back to normal in no time, emergency or not!
