Plumbing emergencies usually happen at the most inconvenient times, like at night, on weekends or on public holidays. Some homeowners and renters try to take care of plumbing problems themselves, but most times you’ll need an emergency plumber on the North Shore to rectify the problem both professionally and legally.

While the aim may be to save dollars, turning your plumbing issue into a DIY project could spell disaster and ultimately prove more costly. There are certain things that must be done by a professional plumber to ensure the work meets Australian Standards and building codes.

This article covers common plumbing emergencies and highlights when you need to call in a professional.

1. Rectify Unexpected Leaks

Taps, pipes and fittings that spring a leak and burst water pipes can all cause damage to your home if you don’t resolve the issue expediently. If the leak is not something you can take care of yourself (skill-wise or legally), then calling an emergency plumber is essential.

We’ll rectify the leak in a professional manner, ensure minimum water damage occurs, that mould doesn’t take hold, that water isn’t wasted, and that you have peace of mind that the fix is sound.

Water leaks are a common household issue and can become very expensive if not repaired properly, and quickly.

2. An Emergency Plumber Ensures Safety

By hiring an emergency plumber on Sydney’s North Shore, we’ll guarantee safety during any plumbing procedure, as a DIY approach is often not the best and therefore not always safe.

Certified plumbers take the necessary precautions to not only guarantee safety but also guarantee the repair will hold. At Chris Lobb Plumbing, we have the experience to tackle all plumbing emergencies. The average homeowner does not have experience working in hazardous conditions, nor the knowledge, expertise or legal qualifications to perform most plumbing repairs.

For example, water leaks or burst pipes create a slip-and-fall hazard. Experienced plumbers know how to work in a wet and slippery environment, and get the repair done without having a mishap. Also, working on hot water systems, for instance, can be hazardous due to burn risks and the potential risk of electrocution. Our highly trained team knows how to make repairs working in hazardous conditions and will even wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to reduce exposure to electric arcing or electric shock.

3. The Implications Of Water Overflows

Whether it’s a burst water pipe, or you forgot to turn off the taps while filling the sink or bathtub, there are some serious implications with overflowing water pooling on the floor. Aside from the prospect of water damage to carpets, furniture and personal items, there is the very real hazard of water coming into contact with electrical outlets and appliances. Short circuits and appliance malfunctions are both an electrocution risk and a potential fire hazard.

If you have a water overflow problem for any reason, call us immediately to get this sorted for you.

4. Emergency Plumbers Work Quickly And Have The Right Tools

No matter what your plumbing emergency is, aside from needing a plumber to arrive ASAP, you’ll also want someone who can fix the problem stat. Speed is a key factor in minimising water damage and getting things back to normal.

Having the right tools of the trade also makes accomplishing tasks faster, more efficient and ensures all repairs are solid and performed to industry standards. Professional plumbers have every tool and piece of equipment on hand to attend to your emergency, and having the correct tools can mean the difference between a good repair and an average one.

For example, at Chris Lobb Plumbing, we have CCTV cameras to search for the location of blockages in pipes. After tackling the blockage, we run the cameras down the pipes again to ensure all debris is gone.

We also have the correct pipe cutting equipment and adhesives to repair damaged pipes. Our team use hand augers and drain snakes to unclog pipes and toilets. Pipe wrenches, pliers and basin wrenches are other essential tools of the trade.

5. Blocked Drains And Toilets

Slow and clogged drains can present plumbing emergencies, particularly if the water backs up through the pipes and overflows onto the floor. Not only are blocked drains inconvenient, but they can also be extremely damaging. Call your emergency plumber immediately to find the cause of the blockage and remove it.

Fixing a blocked toilet isn’t something you can put off. Not being able to use the loo definitely constitutes as a plumbing emergency. The worst case scenario is your blocked toilet overflows, not only causing damage, but permeating everything in the overflow’s path with a horrible stench and serious health hazard. If you can’t free the blockage yourself with a plunger, waste no time giving us a call.

6. A Professional Prevents Further Damage

DIY plumbing repairs can sometimes result in causing more damage, particularly if the repair is inadequate and the issue reoccurs. Without the necessary knowledge, skills and training, you could also cause damage to surrounding pipes and fittings, for example, when attempting your own fix.

It’s also important to note that it’s illegal to undertake most plumbing repairs if you’re not a qualified plumber. The Plumbing and Drainage Act regulates both professional and DIY plumbing in NSW. This Act stipulates what plumbing work you can do yourself, and what tasks must be handled by a licensed professional. Unlicensed plumbing work can result in legal and financial penalties too.

An experienced, trained and certified emergency plumber will carry out the repairs in the correct manner, ensuring the repair holds and that there is no damage to surrounding fixtures. Calling in a professional will give you peace of mind that the repair is done correctly, is legal, and is compliant with relevant Standards.

To clarify, here are some plumbing jobs you are allowed to do yourself:

• Replace a tap washer
• Repair a leaky tap or fitting
• Install a new toilet seat
• Replace fixtures
• Unclog a blocked drain
• Replace a showerhead
• Replace a sanitary drain cover

7. Issues With Hot Water Systems

If for some reason your hot water service suddenly stops working, give us a call so we can diagnose the issue, and undertake repairs or replacement.

It’s important to note that faults with hot water systems are sometimes hazardous. For example, faulty pressure relief valves are a concern, and so are systems that are overheating. Our plumbers will do all they can to resolve the problem, avoid the hazards and have you enjoying a hot shower or bath in no time.

If the unit has reached it’s end of life and is beyond repair, we’ll recommend the most suitable replacement and give you a fixed price quote for purchase and installation.

8. Gas Leaks

If appliances in your home run on gas, there’s always the chance of a gas leak developing. Obviously, gas leaks present a major fire and explosion hazard, so you need to have them professionally rectified immediately.

Trained and experienced emergency plumbers who are also gasfitters can attend to the gas leak, find the source and repair the leak, thus avoiding danger. Chris Lobb Plumbing offers both plumbing and gas fitting services and repairs.

Note that you should never attempt to repair a gas leak yourself unless you’re a qualified gasfitter.

9. Advice For Preventing Plumbing Problems

Keeping up with simple maintenance routines will help keep your plumbing in good shape and avoid emergencies.  That’s where your plumber can help. For instance, we can advise you on what to do and what not to do to prevent clogged toilets and drains, as well as other common plumbing problems.

Emergency Plumbing Services On The North Shore

Chris Lobb Plumbing provides emergency plumbing services on Sydney’s North Shore. We understand the local area and understand the specific needs and challenges of the region. When you need a reliable and professional emergency plumbing service, we are the team you can count on.

Contact us today for all your plumbing requirements.