Fast & Reliable Emergency Plumber in Rancho Cordova, CA 

If you suspect or discover a burst pipe, immediate action is crucial to minimize water damage. The first and most important step is to turn off your home’s main water supply. This valve is typically located where the water line enters your house, often in the basement, garage, or near the water meter.

In some cases, it might be outside near the curb. Turning off the main water supply will stop the flow of water and prevent further flooding. Once the water is shut off, contact a plumber as soon as possible.

Even if the leak seems small, burst pipes can release a significant amount of water very quickly, leading to costly repairs.

Several signs indicate that you might need a new water heater. Since water heaters last 10-15 years, if yours is older, it’s nearing the end of its life.

Visible leaks around the base of the tank are a major cause for alarm and often mean the tank is corroded internally, requiring replacement. Rusty or discolored water coming from your faucets can also indicate corrosion within the tank.

Insufficient hot water, meaning the water doesn’t get as hot as it used to or runs out quickly, can signal a failing heating element or excessive sediment buildup reducing the tank’s capacity.

Strange noises like rumbling or banging from the tank are often caused by sediment buildup on the bottom of the tank, which can reduce efficiency and eventually lead to failure.

The most common cause of a toilet overflow is a blockage in the drainpipe. This blockage can occur for various reasons. Flushing excessive amounts of toilet paper at once can overwhelm the system.

Non-flushable items, such as feminine hygiene products, wipes (even those labeled “flushable”), and cotton balls, can also cause significant clogs. In some cases, the problem might not be the toilet itself but a blockage further down the main sewer line.  

You should call an emergency plumber for plumbing issues that require immediate attention to prevent property damage, health hazards, or significant disruption to your home or business. Situations that typically warrant an emergency call include:  

• Burst pipes that are actively flooding your property  
• Sewer backups, which can introduce harmful bacteria and pose health risks
• A complete loss of water, which can disrupt essential activities
• Gas leaks related to plumbing lines, which are a serious safety hazard

The best way to unclog a drain depends on the severity and location of the clog. For minor clogs, a plunger is often effective.

Create a tight seal and use firm, consistent plunges. For more stubborn clogs, a drain snake (or auger) can be used to break up or retrieve the blockage.

Insert the snake into the drain and rotate it to work through the clog. It’s important to avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners as a first resort.

While they might seem like a quick fix, they can damage your pipes over time and pose health risks.

Preventing frozen pipes is crucial, especially during cold weather, as they can burst and cause significant damage. Here are several preventative measures:

• Insulate exposed pipes, particularly those in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages. Use pipe insulation sleeves or wrap them with heat tape.
• Let faucets drip slightly, especially those on exterior walls. The continuous movement of water, even a trickle, helps prevent freezing.
• Keep cabinet doors open, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, to allow warm air to circulate the pipes.
• Seal any cracks or openings in walls and foundations that could allow cold air to enter.