What Qualifies as a Plumbing Emergency?

One of the most serious plumbing emergencies is a sewer backup. This occurs when wastewater cannot flow into the city sewer and instead backs up into your home, often through basement drains.

• Why It’s an Emergency:
  • Sewer backups can cause extensive water damage and pose health risks due to contaminated water.
  • The longer the issue goes unresolved, the worse the damage becomes.
• What to Do:
  • Install water sensors or flood alarms in your basement to detect backups early.
  • If you notice a backup, stop using water immediately to prevent further damage.
  • Call a professional plumber right away to address the issue.

At Wiehler Mechanical, we offer emergency plumbing services to handle sewer backups and minimize damage to your home.

Another situation that qualifies as a plumbing emergency is a catastrophic water leak, such as a burst pipe or a malfunctioning appliance.

• Why It’s an Emergency:

  • Large amounts of water can cause significant damage to your home’s structure and belongings.

• What to Do:

  • Locate your water main shut-off valve and turn off the water supply immediately.

  • Call a plumber to repair the leak and assess the damage.

Knowing where your water main shut-off valve is located is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your home.

In Calgary’s harsh winters, frozen pipes are a common issue that can lead to burst pipes if not addressed promptly.

• • Why It’s an Emergency:

    • Burst pipes can cause flooding and extensive water damage.

  • What to Do:

    • If you notice reduced water flow or no water at all, check for frozen pipes.

    • Use a hairdryer or heating pad to gently thaw the pipes, but avoid open flames.

    • If the pipe has already burst, turn off the water supply and call a plumber immediately.

Not every plumbing issue requires immediate attention. Here are some examples of situations that are inconvenient but not emergencies:

• No Hot Water:

  • While a lack of hot water is frustrating, it’s not an emergency. You can manage with cold showers for a day or two while waiting for a plumber to diagnose and fix the issue.

• Small Leaks or Drips:

  • A small leak from your hot water tank’s relief valve or a drip on the floor is a problem but not an emergency. Ensure the water is directed to a floor drain and schedule a repair within the next day or two.

Understanding the difference between an emergency and a non-urgent issue can help you prioritize and avoid unnecessary costs.

Being proactive can help you avoid many plumbing emergencies. Here are some tips:

• Install Water Sensors: Place flood sensors in your basement or near appliances to detect leaks early.

• Regular Inspections: Check your mechanical room weekly for signs of water where it shouldn’t be.

• Know Your Systems: Familiarize yourself with the location of your water main shut-off valve, hot water tank, and furnace.

At Wiehler Mechanical, we offer maintenance plans to keep your plumbing systems in top condition and reduce the risk of emergencies.