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As the name suggests, plumbing emergencies happen when you least expect them. Minor plumbing issues can sometimes be resolved with a DIY fix, while more severe scenarios may require expert professional assistance. In both cases, acting quickly is key and being well prepared for any eventuality is crucial for minimising long-term damage or costly repairs.
The solution? Having an emergency plumbing kit ready and raring to go when you need it can make all the difference.
Plumbing emergencies come in all shapes and sizes from burst pipes to unexpected leaks and sewage backup or mould growth to the dreaded 'no hot water' supply. If not handled promptly and efficiently, these types of emergencies can result in significant damage to your property and even pose health risks to those on the property.
Some emergencies can be prevented with regular maintenance and professional inspections of your plumbing systems, but even the best-kept properties can face these issues from time to time.
Each scenario will require a different fix, but some tools and tricks can help in most situations, and we recommend that every home or business invests in a well-stocked plumbing emergency kit.
Here's your comprehensive guide on exactly what you should include in your kit to help prevent further damage. To make it even easier, all of these items can be purchased in your local hardware store.
An adjustable wrench is used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts of various sizes. Its moveable jaw gives it a secure grip making it an extremely versatile tool useful for many plumbing jobs.
Pipe wrenches are designed for gripping onto and turning round objects—making it the perfect tool for fitting or fixing pipes.
One of the must-have tools in your emergency plumbing kit, plungers are ideal for quick fixes on clogged toilets or sinks. Advanced kits may include multiple plungers for different scenarios, but this isn't absolutely necessary. For example, you may have a specific toilet plunger for hygiene purposes.
It's important to note that using too much extreme force while plunging can cause issues to your plumbing system. If the clog doesn't budge easily, call a professional for further assistance.
Duct tape can be used as a quick fix for a leaking pipe or fixture before your plumber arrives. While not a permanent solution, its strong and waterproof qualities make it a must-have item in any homeowner's emergency plumbing kit.
Plumber's putty is a soft, flexible material most commonly used to create waterproof seals around sinks and drains. It's not advised to use it on a pressurised fitting because it doesn’t have the strength to withstand water pressure and may fail over time.
You can't look past a trusty pair of rubber gloves during a plumbing emergency. They protect your hands from potential nasties in the water including chemicals, dirt or sharp objects. A good pair can also improve your grip when dealing with awkward fittings or fixtures.
A sturdy bucket is crucial to catch water during many common plumbing emergencies. It's also useful for transporting other tools and can help keep your workspace clear of obstacles.
An old towel or two in your plumbing kit will be handy for soaking up water from leaks and spills and for drying or wiping your tools and hands mid-job.
Having spare washers and O-rings on hand allows you to fix dripping taps and leaky pipes quickly. They're small but mighty and help maintain tight and leak-free seals.
Adding a torch or headlamp to your emergency kit is useful for lighting up tight spaces that are dark or not easily accessible.
Every good emergency plumbing kit will have all of the key tools ready and prepared to tackle minor issues and plumbing emergencies. Make sure you store your kit in an accessible location so you can easily grab it should disaster hit.
Just like your plumbing systems, your emergency kit should be well-maintained to ensure all items are still usable when required. Missing or broken tools can turn a minor plumbing issue into a bigger hassle.
Most DIY plumbing solutions are temporary and meant to control the issue until a professional can assess it. Attempting advanced repairs without the right expertise can sometimes make the problem worse.
Short-term fixes, such as using pipe clamps or epoxy putty, can help stop leaks and minimise water damage. However, it’s important to know when it's time to call a plumber to prevent further complications.
All of the tools in your emergency plumbing kit can save the day in their own way. For example, a pipe wrench can tighten pipes and fittings that have come loose, and your plumber's putty can create watertight seals around sink drains or pipes. A sink plunger can help relieve a stubborn clog while duct tape can slow down small leaks until professional help arrives.
When attempting any DIY fix, safety is paramount. Wear protective gear like gloves and goggles to prevent exposure to anything harmful. Good lighting around the area is crucial for removing any potential unseen hazards and allowing you to gain a true idea of the root of the problem.
It's also advised to have a first aid kit on hand should any medical accident occur during the plumbing emergency.
We can't emphasise enough the importance of regular maintenance and professional inspections to prevent the number of plumbing emergencies you may face. These routine checks can identify minor issues like small leaks or clogs before they escalate into larger plumbing repairs.
It's helpful to keep a list of emergency contact numbers in your phone, including your plumber's phone number. The team here at Plumberoo commit to being at your property within two hours because we're locals too. We know how stressful these situations can be, so we prioritise a fast response.
A plumbing emergency kit can only get you so far, eventually it's time to call in the experts. From blocked drains to toilet repairs and hot water nightmares, make Plumberoo your go-to Sydney plumber for a more permanent fix than you can achieve alone.
Being prepared is great, but the best safety measure is having a local plumber on speed dial.
