There are some minor plumbing problems that can be addressed without the help of a professional, such as dislodging a small clog from a toilet. However, knowing when it’s time to call a plumber can save you time and help you prevent an existing problem from growing worse. Below are a few times when you should leave your problem in the hands of a professional.

4 Times When It’s Best to Call a Plumber

1. A Pipe Bursts

A burst pipe is rare, but when it does happen, you’ll know it. Water will rapidly leak from the fractured line, causing flooding to occur in that area of the home. While you will need to call a plumber to repair or replace that part of the line, you should immediately shut off the water.

Find the water supply valves that are closest to the fractured pipe and turn the flow of water off at that location. If you can’t find a nearby valve, you’ll have to shut off the supply of water at the house’s main valve.

2. No Water

If you can only get water from the cold faucets in your home, the problem is most likely focused near the water heater. If your toilet and faucets aren’t producing consistent water flow, the issue may be with the water meter that delivers water from the main city lines to your home. Your plumbing professional can help figure out the source of the problem.

3. Water That’s Constantly Running 

If you hear water running near your toilet or sink, you likely have a leak in the pipes. You can verify there’s a leak in the inner pipes by looking for brown water stains on the walls, ceiling, or floor.

You can also verify there’s a leak by checking your water meter when the water is not in use. If the meter’s gauge is still moving, this indicates a leak somewhere along your lines.

4. Poor Water Pressure

If you notice reduced water pressure coming from sink faucets, or from shower and bathtub fixtures, you can first try clearing the faucet’s aerator. If there isn’t much of a buildup, or if cleaning the aerator doesn’t correct the problem, you’ll likely need professional help. There’s probably a leak in the line as the result of a loose connection, burst pipe, or another problem.

If you notice a problem and you’re not sure how to handle it, Bradford & Sons Electrical Plumbing & Heating in Canandaigua, NY, will help you. Backed by 45 years of experience, they provide quality plumbing, HVAC, and electrical services to residential and commercial customers. To learn more about their services, visit them online. To schedule an appointment, call (585) 657-7309.