Common Plumbing Emergencies

Plumbing emergencies can happen in a variety of ways and for many different reasons. Some may seem like relatively minor inconveniences, such as a clogged toilet, but are actually the signs of a larger problem in your plumbing. Other issues, such as burst pipes, can cause major damage very quickly. In this blog, we’ll cover three of the most common plumbing emergencies, their causes, and how to address them.

Clogged Toilet

If a toilet is draining slowly or not at all, it’s probably clogged. This usually happens when someone tries to flush too much toilet paper, but flushing other items can also cause clogs. Napkins, hair, and even some wipes labeled as flushable should be disposed of in a waste basket, not a toilet. A plunger or toilet auger is usually enough to resolve this issue, but if you’re still having trouble, you may be dealing with a damaged sewer line or something else. In that case, it’s best to call a professional.

Leaky Faucet

While not exactly an emergency, a leaky faucet is still a problem. Constant dripping can increase your water bill and make it easier for mold to grow. A leaky faucet is usually caused by old or damaged parts such as washers or gaskets. The simplest fix is to shut off the water to the faucet, remove and disassemble the faucet, and check for worn out parts. You can then replace the problematic pieces. But if your faucet is more than 15 years old, it might be worth installing a brand new one. Contact Robillard Plumbing and ask about our faucet repair and replacement services.

Burst Pipe

Pipes that are clogged, corroded, or frozen may burst and cause significant water damage to your home. And although burst pipes can sometimes be obvious, you may not notice one right away. Keep an eye out for puddles, water stains, mold on your walls, and unusual noises coming from your plumbing. The first step in addressing a burst pipe is to turn off the water supply to prevent further leaking. You’ll then want to open your faucets to drain the remaining water. Once you locate the burst pipe, a repair sleeve can temporarily stop it from leaking, but you’ll want to have a plumber repair the pipe sooner rather than later.

Contact Robillard Plumbing

Whatever your plumbing emergency, contact the master plumbers at Robillard Plumbing. We will do everything we can to address the problem quickly and efficiently. Whether you need a toilet repaired, a faucet replaced, or a new water heater installed, we are committed to providing services of the highest quality.

Contact us today!

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The Signs of a Sewage Backup

Dealing with a sewage backup is every homeowner’s nightmare. Not only can it lead to foul odors and unsanitary conditions, but it can also cause extensive damage to your property if left unaddressed. Recognizing the signs of a sewage backup early on is crucial for prompt action and preventing further complications. Continue reading our blog as we discuss some common signs that indicate a potential sewage backup.

Foul Odors

One of the most obvious signs of a sewage backup is a strong, unpleasant odor emanating from your drains or toilets. Sewage carries distinct and pungent smells, and if you notice an unusual sewage-like odor in your home, it could indicate a backup in your plumbing system. Pay close attention to any persistent, foul smells that don’t dissipate with typical cleaning or deodorizing methods.

Slow Draining Fixtures

When multiple fixtures in your home start draining more slowly than usual, it may indicate a sewage backup. Keep an eye out for sinks, showers, bathtubs, or toilets that take longer than usual to empty. Slow drainage can occur due to a blockage in the sewer line, causing wastewater to accumulate and back up into your home. If you notice this issue consistently across multiple fixtures, it’s a clear indication of a potential sewage backup.

Gurgling Sounds

Unusual sounds coming from your plumbing system, such as gurgling or bubbling noises, should not be ignored. These sounds often occur when air is trapped in your pipes due to a blockage or restriction. If wastewater is struggling to flow freely through the sewer line, air bubbles can form and cause gurgling noises.

Multiple Clogged Drains

While a single clogged drain is typically a localized problem, experiencing multiple clogged drains simultaneously could indicate a more significant issue within your sewer system. If you find that various drains in your home are backing up or clogging frequently, it suggests a blockage or obstruction in the main sewer line. This obstruction can eventually lead to a sewage backup if not addressed promptly.

Water Backup in Fixtures

Another clear sign of a sewage backup is water backing up into fixtures such as sinks, toilets, or showers. For instance, flushing your toilet might cause water to rise instead of draining away. Similarly, running water in one fixture could cause water to back up in another. These occurrences indicate that there is insufficient capacity in your sewer line to handle the wastewater flow, resulting in a backup.

Contact Robillard Plumbing

At Robillard Plumbing, we offer a wide range of plumbing services in the northwest metro area. From fixing leaking sinks to installing water softeners, we can do it all. You can always count on our master plumbers and service professionals for a reliable and efficient fix. Contact us today!

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