Steps to Take During a Plumbing Emergency

Plumbing problems can occur at any time of the night or day. Broken pipes and faucets can quickly lead to floods that waste water and damage your belongings, furnishings, and décor. During a plumbing emergency, taking quick action and contacting a plumber immediately will minimize damage and stress.

Turn Off the Water

Toilets, sinks, and appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines are equipped with a nearby shutoff valve that cuts water flow to the fixture in the event of an emergency. These small silver or gray valves are typically located on the wall near the floor. Toilet shutoff valves are often found below and behind the toilet bowl, while a sink shutoff valve may be hidden inside the cabinetry that supports the sink. Once you locate the valve, turn it clockwise until the incoming water flow ceases.

If you cannot find the appliance’s shutoff valve or you are experiencing a broken pipe or leaking outdoor faucet, you should instead turn off the main water supply to your home. Your home’s main shutoff valve can be found near your water meter. This shutoff valve may be either a circular valve or a lever. Turn the circular valve clockwise or pull the lever until it is perpendicular to your pipe to shut off your water main.

Plunge Clogs

If you are experiencing a severe clog in your plumbing, avoid the use of chemical drain cleaners to clear it. These harsh solutions can warp plumbing pipes, damage finishes, and burn your skin. Instead, use a plunger to try loosening the clog mechanically. You may need to plunge the drain several times before the clog can be dislodged. If you aren’t successful in removing a clog with a plunger, it’s time to call your plumber for professional assistance.

Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical provides emergency plumbing, drain, sewer, and heating solutions throughout the Seattle area. You can reach us 24 hours a day by calling (206) 452-4363 to speak with an experienced plumber. Click through our blog to find more information and tips about preventing and handling plumbing emergencies.

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Essential Tips for Hiring a Plumber

Hiring a professional plumber will ensure repairs are made quickly and effectively to solve any plumbing issue. However, it’s important to evaluate any potential plumbing contractor to make certain you receive the quality of service you expect.

Any plumber you hire should be licensed and insured—you can check with your city or state’s regulatory board to verify this information. Ask your plumber to supply a portfolio so you can evaluate his work before scheduling any service. You can hear more tips for hiring a plumber for your home or business when you check out this short video.



Do you need plumbing or sewer repairs in Seattle? Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical has been providing top-quality plumbing and heating services for more than a decade. Contact us by calling (206) 452­4363 or clicking on our website to find out more about our fully licensed and insured plumbers.

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How to Handle a Frozen Pipe

Frozen pipes are common wintertime plumbing problems that require quick action to prevent extensive damage. As a homeowner, there are a few steps you can take to try to address a frozen pipe on your own. If your pipe has already burst or your efforts to thaw it aren’t successful, contact a plumber for professional assistance.

Turn Off Your Water Supply

The first step you should take when you discover a frozen pipe is to turn off your home’s main water supply. This will prevent a major flood if your pipe bursts before you can thaw it. In most homes, the main water shutoff valve is located near the water meter. It’s a good idea to identify your main water shutoff valve prior to an emergency so you can act quickly should the need arise. If you can’t find your main water shutoff valve, you can ask your plumber to show you where it is during his next visit.

Heat the Pipe

If a pipe freezes but hasn’t burst, you can try warming the pipe to thaw the ice inside before it expands and damages your plumbing. Never use a torch or open flame to thaw a frozen pipe; instead, use a blow dryer, electric pipe wrap, or space heater placed a few feet away from the pipe. It’s important to monitor the pipe as you heat it to check for signs of a leak. If you identify water dripping from the pipe, it has cracked and needs to be repaired before you turn your home’s main water supply back on. Contact a plumber to repair the damage or replace the burst section of pipe.

Call Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical for fast, reliable, round-the-clock plumbing services in Seattle, Tacoma, Auburn, Everett, and Kent. Our expert plumbers and technicians are here to provide top-quality customer service to solve any sewer, plumbing, drain, or heating problem. Check us out on the web or call us at (206) 452-4363 to learn why Beacon has enjoyed the title of Seattle’s #1 Plumber for more than a decade!

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Preventing Fires with Portable Heaters and Furnaces

 

More fires occur during the winter than any other season of the year. In most cases, the reason for this increased incidence of fire is the extended use of furnaces and portable heaters to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. If you suspect your furnace or heater isn’t functioning as it should, stop using it and contact a heating and furnace repair specialist immediately. Continue reading to learn some tips for preventing fires with these heating devices.

Keep Heaters Clear

It’s important to maintain a clear, unobstructed area of at least three feet around any furnace or portable heater. Don’t store objects around or against your furnace, as they could fall and cause damage to your furnace that may start a fire. Never place chemicals or cleaners near your furnace and don’t allow children to play near heating equipment. Portable heaters should never be placed within three feet of chemicals, clothing, draperies, or furniture. Make sure your portable heater sits on a stand or a surface made from tile or stone; heaters placed on carpeting or rugs could start a fire. Keep the area behind your portable heater clear as well to avoid obstructing airflow through the unit.

Maintain Your Heating Equipment

Furnace fires are often caused by poorly-maintained heating systems. Dirt and dust can build up inside your furnace, sparking a fire if enough material accumulates near the burners or on hot surfaces. Worn electrical components could spark and start an electrical fire inside your system. Schedule a furnace tune-up at least once a year to have your furnace checked and cleaned. Your furnace maintenance specialist will remove any accumulated dirt and replace worn or damaged parts before they become a fire hazard. Never use a portable heater that appears damaged or has a frayed power cord. It is imperative to repair or replace the unit to avoid starting a fire.

Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical provides emergency repair services for sewers, plumbing, and heating systems in the Seattle area. Call us any time at (206) 452-4363 to speak with an experienced technician and schedule commercial or residential service. You can find out more about plumbing and furnace maintenance and safety on our blog.

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