When a pipe bursts or some other piece of plumbing malfunctions, our first instinct is to get the problem under control as soon as possible. The longer such an issue goes on, the harder it will be to repair. Not only will the issue be harder to fix, if left unaddressed, the problem could result in hundreds to thousands of dollars in property damage and water usage fees. Because time is of the essence during a plumbing emergency, we feel pressured to make a repair decision as soon as possible, without giving ourselves time to weigh our options completely.
Whether you decide to DI.Y repair or take the easy and safe way out and call in your local emergency Trustworthy plumber, get familiar with the plumbing basics on unclogging and clearing drains. The bottom section of the drainpipe is called a trap that functions to "trap" some water in the line and create a water seal preventing offensive sewer gases from penetrating the home. Bathroom drains of showers, tubs and sinks may become blocked due to a build up of hair, soap scum and bodily oils and fats.
Don't just assume that the plumber will be good for your emergency problem because someone you trusted told you about them. You have to make 100% sure that they can help you before hiring them so you don't have bigger problems later on from making a rushed decision and hiring the wrong plumber.
Choosing the first one you see listed on a business directory is not the best way to choose a plumber. Instead, use an online directory to draw up a shortlist of the tradesmen in your area.
Like knowing where your electrical panel is located, it is just as important to know where the valve for the main water faucet replace to your home is located. Also, knowing where the water valves for individual fixtures can help keep small leaks from becoming major repairs. Start by turning off the water for the individual fixture near the affected area. If that doesn't work, or your issue is a busted pipe, turn off the main water service. The main water valve is usually located outside in a box in the ground. Turning off the water main will stop the flow of water to your home and thus preventing further water damage.
The number one thing you need to check when hiring a plumber is to make sure they are fully qualified and are certified by the TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority). Most plumbing contractors are also heating contractors, therefore they need to have a valid TSSA number. Having a license is also very important. A license ensures that the plumber is following rules and standards. Do your homework when researching a plumbing contractor and try to get reviews from previous customers. Advice from friends and family who have dealt with a Local plumber is priceless. If you don`t know anyone who has had services from a local plumber recently, online is the next best place to look for reviews of local contractors.
PRICE: There are various factors that will come into play where price is concerned. When your plumber determines what the problem is, be sure to ask him or her if the charges are hourly or if there is a standard fee for each job. Also remember to ask the price of parts as well as labor. Also make it a point to ask if the plumber charges for any overtime and what his rate is if he does charge that. It may be to your advantage to look for a plumber who has Upfront Pricing that is, a plumber who charges by the job, instead of by the hour. It is actually better to charge this way in order to make it easier for the customer to stay within their budget.
Without a knowledge of this home improvement area, you run the risk of creating more of a problem than you began with. You don't want to make things worse and you don't want to create any more damage, so take a step back and call a knowledgeable plumbing service to come in and take over the project.