Plumbing emergencies are not something to be taken lightly. They can cause severe damage to your house and expose your family members to toxic substances. A plumbing emergency is an event that needs immediate attention. Let’s take a look at our plumbing emergency checklist.
PLUMBING EMERGENCY CHECKLIST
You can rest assured that your emergency plumber will arrive in Long Beach as soon as possible with just one phone call. There are steps you can take to protect your home and family while you wait.
The comprehensive emergency list includes two lists. One is a list listing all the supplies every household should have in an emergency situation. A second list of steps that will help reduce the risk and damage to your family.
HOUSEHOLD SUPPLIES THAT EVERY HOUSEHOLD SHOULD HAVE:
- A large bucket (5 gallons and larger)
- Duct tape
- Plunger (preferably one to fix flat drains, and one to fix recessed drains).
- Towels that absorb moisture
- Plumber’s snake, or hand auger
- A basic toolkit (including a Phillips screwdriver and flathead screwdriver as well as Allen keys and pliers),
- A floor plan showing the location of your water heater, emergency kit, breakers and water main.
ORDER OF OPERATIONS IN A PLUMING EMERGENCY
Broken water lines or sewage backing up in your home can all be plumbing emergencies. Each situation is unique, so you might need to adjust the steps to suit your needs. There are some steps you should follow in a plumbing emergency.
You should always exit your home immediately if water comes into direct contact with live wires. Your safety is more important than preventing further damage. This is just one example of what to do to minimize the damage from a plumbing emergency, if you can safely do so.
WHAT ACTIONS YOU SHOULD TAKE IN A PLUMBING EMERGENCY
EVACUATE PETS AND CHILDREN
It is important to evacuate your family members, pets and children from any flooding or back-up sewage. The extent of your plumbing emergency will determine the definition of safe areas. An upstairs bedroom might be a good option in certain situations, but it may not work for others.
SHUT OFF WATER
The fastest way to reduce the damage from a plumbing emergency is to shut off the water. It is best to turn off the main water supply if you don’t know what the root cause of your plumbing problem is.
The shutoff valve is usually located outside the home. You should always ask about the location of the water main before you move to a new area. This will allow you to know exactly where you need to go in your yard.
STOP WATER HEATER
Water heaters aren’t designed to work without water. The appliance could fail or malfunction if you turn off the main water supply without shutting off the heater. If electrocution is possible, do not try to turn off the water heater.
IDENTIFY THE CORE PROBLEM
If possible, identify the root cause and nature of your plumbing emergency as quickly as possible. When you call your plumber in Long Beach (CA) and any other emergency services, a concise explanation will be helpful.
CALL YOUR EMERGENCY PLUMBER IN LONG BEACH, CA
After the problem is resolved, you can call a Long Beach emergency plumber or another adult to call while you deal with the water main.