Some homeowners do not understand the differences between plumbing emergencies and standard repairs. Serious issues, such as sewage coming up through drains or flooding due to toilets overflowing, are not the only types of plumbing emergencies that you need to be aware of. Every homeowner needs to have a basic understanding of what type of situations that require immediate attention. This can help to protect their safety and also reduce the chances of property damages. The following points will help you to identify potential emergency plumbing situations that you could face. 

Slow Drainage

This usually presents itself by standing water in sinks and tubs. You might also notice that when you flush your toilet, the water rises and slowly goes down. Some individuals use chemical products to try to clear blockages in their plumbing systems. These over-the-counter remedies can cause additional problems. Many of them are corrosive and can damage pipes. This means that you could end up with more expensive repairs.

Offensive Odors

If you smell offensive odors that remind you of raw sewage, you need to contact a professional. In some cases, these odors can make humans ill. You may also encounter a smell that is similar to the smell of rotten eggs. This issue is also a sewer-related issue. It is serious because the smell is indicative of sewer gas entering your home. Strange smells likely mean that a portion of your plumbing system is damaged and needs repairs or replacement parts. 

Winter Months and No Water

This may be a sign that you have frozen pipes. This issue should be taken seriously since frozen pipes can burst when they thaw. The risk is dependent upon the material your pipes are made of. Do not make the mistake of waiting for your pipes to thaw or using home remedies to try to thaw them yourself. A professional will know the correct approach to thaw the pipes. They have the equipment to determine the severity and location of the frozen parts and whether or not your home is at risk.

A plumber is a good resource to use to determine whether your plumbing issue should be handled as an emergency. If you are unsure, it is better to err on the side of caution and contact a plumber to discuss what you are experiencing. Some plumbing issues may not be obvious. These issues can occur deep in sewer lines or pipes. They may also occur behind walls, which can make it difficult for homeowners to know they exist. If you have a plumbing emergency, reach out to a 24/7 emergency plumber.