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The plumbing system in your home, is one of the most complex and essential systems in the home. If your plumbing system isn’t functioning properly, it can make it difficult to get clean water into the home. It can also be difficult for water and waste to go down the drains and leave the home.

Some plumbing issues are relatively easy to fix and not very serious. These are issues that can wait to be repaired until your plumber has an opening in their schedule. However, there are other plumbing issues that need to be fixed right away and would require emergency plumbing service. The issues listed below are considered plumbing emergencies and should not be ignored.

#1 Clogged Drains

If the drains in your home are slow, it can be annoying, but it isn’t considered an emergency. Because the water is still going down the drain, even if it is happening slowly, you should be able to wait until your plumber has an open appointment.

If your drains are completely clogged, it is a serious issue and would require emergency plumbing service. If the water doesn’t go down the drain in your sink or shower, you won’t be able to use that sink or shower until the clog has been removed. If you have just one shower, this can be a significant inconvenience. The same is true if your kitchen sink is completely clogged because until the clog is removed, you won’t be able to use the sink. The sooner you call for a plumbing service, the sooner things in the home will go back to normal.

#2 Rusty Water

It is very dangerous to bathe in rusty water. It is also dangerous to drink rusty water and to cook with it. If you turn on the water and it comes out with a brown tint, it is likely rust, which would require emergency plumbing service.

If both the hot and cold water is coming out rusty, the problem likely lies within the pipes. When the inside of the pipes get rusted and corroded, it can make the water come out rusty. To repair the issue, a plumber would need to find the rusted pipe and then replace it.

If just the hot water is coming out rusty, the problem is likely with your water heater. Over time, rust and sediment can develop inside the tank. When too much has accumulated, it can cause your hot water to come out rusty. In some cases, the water tank can be drained and cleaned. If the problem is severe, you might need to replace your water heater. When you call for an emergency plumbing service, the plumber will let you know which option is best for your specific situation.

#3 No Hot Water

If you turn on the hot water and it comes out cold, or if it doesn’t get as hot as it usually does, you should first check the thermostat on your water heater. If it was accidentally changed and is no longer set to 120 to 140 degrees, make the necessary changes. This should solve the problem.

If the thermostat is set correctly, you should call for emergency plumbing service. There are plenty of household tasks that cannot be done without hot water, which is why this is considered an emergency situation. If the water heater’s heating element is not functioning properly, the water in the tank won’t heat up and stay hot. Water heaters are very complex appliances and should only be repaired by a licensed plumber. If you try to fix it yourself and make one small mistake, you could end up doing more harm than good. If you turn on the hot water and it comes out cold or lukewarm, you should call for emergency plumbing service immediately.

#4 Poor Water Pressure

If you notice that the water pressure in your Knoxville, TN, home is weaker than usual, you may not think that it is a major cause for immediate concern. What you may not know is that poor water pressure could be a sign of a much bigger problem.

If the water pressure is poor from just one fixture, the aerator could be clogged. There could also be a small leak in the waterline. If this is the case, the water will pool behind the wall, causing serious water damage. It can also create a mold issue that can be very difficult and time-consuming to fix.

If the water pressure is poor from all fixtures, the leak could be in the water main, which is a very serious problem.

If your water pressure is suddenly much weaker than usual, it is best to call for emergency plumbing service. The sooner the source of the problem is found, the less chance there is of serious water damage.

#5 Frozen Pipes

Overall, the weather in Knoxville, TN, is relatively mild. However, it is not uncommon for the temperature to drop below freezing during the winter, particularly at night. If it is freezing outside, your pipes are at risk of freezing. This is considered an emergency situation. When the water in the pipes freeze, the ice expands, which can cause the pipes to burst. If this happens, you can experience a devastating flood in your home.

If it is very cold outside and the water isn’t coming out of any of the faucets or showerheads, you should call for emergency plumbing service. A licensed plumber will know how to thaw out the pipes before they have a chance to burst.

If you are experiencing any issues that would require emergency plumbing service, contact My Professional Plumber. We have almost 60 years of combined experience in the plumbing field, which should give you peace of mind that we will get the job done right the first time. Whether your plumbing issues are an emergency situation or not, we will get to your home quickly to repair the problem. To schedule an appointment, give us a call today.