Did you know that in the U.S., household leaks can squander almost one trillion gallons of water yearly? Even the average home’s leaks can already waste 10,000 gallons of water annually! That’s enough reason to fix faulty plumbing components as soon as you notice them. Otherwise, they’ll only worsen and could even cause plumbing safety hazards and emergencies.
Still, problems like backups and burst pipes can happen when you least expect them. This is why it’s best to learn what you must do if such happens in your home in Anaheim, CA.
We’ve rounded up what you need to know in this guide, so read on.
Prioritize Your Safety
Plumbing emergencies can take the form of wastewater backing up of drains or toilets. If this happens to your home, please don’t expose your bare skin to the water, regardless if it looks clear.
Untreated wastewater contains harmful microorganisms that cause waterborne diseases. These health problems are so common they affect 7.2 million Americans yearly.
You can fix and clean a minor backup if it only involves one drain or toilet and a small amount of wastewater. Before you do, though, wear rubber gloves, boots, goggles, and a face mask.
Use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to unclog the problematic drain or toilet. Thoroughly clean and sanitize the area and shower or bathe afterward.
Know Where Your Shutoff Valve Is
Household emergencies involving a severe plumbing leak can be due to burst pipes.
Burst pipes are common causes of water damage and freezing-related home insurance claims. About one in 60 insured homeowners in the U.S. file such claims yearly.
Burst pipes are more common in winter but can still occur in your Anaheim home during fall. If this happens, your first step should be to turn off the main water shutoff valve. So, if you don’t know its location, now’s the best time to learn where it is.
If you have a basement, check the interior side of the wall where your outdoor hose bib is. You’ll likely find the shutoff valve somewhere within this area.
If your home is on a slab and you have a water heater tank, the valve should be close to the latter. You may find it at the top of or under the tank.
In some homes in Anaheim, CA, the valve is outside, located on the side of the house facing the street.
Call an Emergency Plumber
Continuous wastewater backups and burst pipes are emergency plumbing issues. These are best left in the hands of licensed plumbers in Anaheim, CA. So, as soon as you experience these, please call a 24/7 plumbing repair specialist ASAP.
Keep These Plumbing Safety Tips in Mind
Remember: Your Anaheim home’s plumbing system doesn’t just supply clean water. It also collects, removes, and transports waste out of your abode. That’s why practicing plumbing safety during emergencies should be a priority.
And if you ever face a plumbing emergency, please know that our team here at Pinpoint Plumbing is ready to help. We provide 24/7 plumbing services in Anaheim, CA, so don’t hesitate to call us for assistance!