Emergency Plumbing Preparedness: Alameda County Homeowner’s Checklist

<img src=https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/dcr-apis/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/IMG_1423_0.jpeg alt=undefined style=height: auto;width: auto/> When a plumbing emergency happens, every second matters. A burst pipe, an overflowing toilet or a leaking water heater can cause major water damage within minutes. Alameda County homeowners can stay ahead of disaster by following this checklist of preventive steps: 1. Locate and test your main water shut-off valve. Immediately turning off the water during a burst pipe or leak can save you thousands of dollars in damage, so it’s crucial to know where your shut-off valve is located and how to operate it. Look for your valve near your water meter, on your basement wall or in your garage. Test it every few months to make sure it turns smoothly and label it clearly so all members of your household can easily find it. 2. Create a home plumbing emergency kit. Quick response tools can limit water damage while you wait for help. Keep these essentials in a waterproof container to control minor leaks or blockages before they get worse: <ul> <li>Adjustable wrench and plumber’s tape</li> <li>Rubber or waterproof patches</li> <li>Plunger and small drain snake</li> <li>Rags, towels and a flashlight</li> </ul> 3. Save contact info for a Diamond Certified plumber. When an emergency hits, you’ll want to immediately call a quality plumber instead of spending time comparing reviews. <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/bay-area-plumbing/ target=_self>Diamond Certified plumbers</a> have been independently rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise® through verified customer satisfaction research. You can trust that they’ll arrive prepared, professional and ready to do the job correctly the first time. 4. Watch for warning signs. Many plumbing emergencies start small, so catching problems early can prevent the need for emergency service calls later. Look out for: <ul> <li>Gurgling pipes or bubbling drains</li> <li>Drops in water pressure</li> <li>Rust-colored water or foul odors</li> <li>Damp spots on walls or ceilings</li> </ul> 5. Prevent future problems with regular maintenance. Keeping an eye on your plumbing system is the key to avoiding costly problems. Here are some good starting points: <ul> <li>Insulate pipes before winter to prevent freezing.</li> <li>Drain garden hoses and outdoor faucets before cold snaps.</li> <li>Check your water heater once a year for leaks or sediment buildup.</li> <li>Schedule annual inspections with a certified plumber to catch developing problems. </li> </ul> <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/ target=_self>Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a>  Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/savior-plumbing-inc/ target=_self>Savior Plumbing, Inc.</a> <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/big-blue-plumbing/ target=_self>Big Blue Plumbing</a> <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/ars-rescue-rooter-3/ target=_self>ARS® / Rescue Rooter®</a> <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/albert-nahman-plumbing-heating-and-cooling/ target=_self>Albert Nahman Plumbing, Heating and Cooling</a> <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/pacific-plumbing-systems/ target=_self>Pacific Plumbing Systems</a>  Related Articles <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/bay-area-plumbing/ target=_self>Top Rated Plumbing Companies for the San Francisco Bay Area</a> <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/alameda-plumbing/ target=_self>Top Rated Plumbers Serving Alameda County</a> <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Plumbing/ target=_self>The Homeowner's Guide to Plumbing, Septic Systems & Gas Lines</a> <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/ target=_self>Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top Rated Local Companies</a> <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/ target=_self>Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a> <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-top-rated-companies/hub/ca/san-francisco-bay-area/ target=_self>Find Top Rated Companies in the San Francisco Bay Area</a>