Top 5 Plumbing Emergencies in Eastern NC (and How to Handle Them Fast)
Plumbing problems never happen at a convenient time, and when they strike, fast action is critical. In Eastern North Carolina, the combination of older plumbing systems, unpredictable weather, and periods of high water usage can make certain emergencies more common.
Whether it’s a burst pipe or a backed-up sewer line, these are the top five plumbing emergencies our plumbers respond to most often, and what to do when they strike.
1. Burst Pipes
A burst pipe can go from a small leak to a major flood in minutes. These are common in homes with older pipes, high water pressure, or during sudden temperature changes. You might notice a sudden drop in water pressure, pooling water, or even a loud “pop” sound when the pipe breaks.
Act fast: Water damage spreads quickly by soaking walls, ruining flooring, and promoting mold growth. Shut off your water supply immediately and call a professional plumber to isolate and repair the break before it gets worse.
2. Sewer Line Backups
If flushing the toilet causes water to back up into the tub, or you smell sewage around the home, you’re likely facing a sewer line issue. Tree root intrusion, collapsed pipes, or heavy rains overwhelming the system are common causes in Eastern NC.
This isn’t a DIY fix: Sewer water poses serious health risks, and backups can render your home temporarily uninhabitable. Professional cleaning, camera inspection, and possibly trenchless repair may be needed to get your system flowing again.
3. Overflowing or Clogged Toilets
One of the most stressful (and unpleasant) household emergencies is a clogged toilet that won’t stop rising. Whether caused by excess toilet paper, kids flushing toys, or deeper drain blockages, an overflow can quickly flood your bathroom with contaminated water.
Don’t wait it out: If plunging doesn’t solve the issue, the blockage may be farther down the line. Repeated clogs could signal a sewer problem, especially in older homes with outdated piping.
4. Water Heater Failure
When your water heater fails, the signs are clear: ice-cold showers, water pooling around the unit, or popping and banging noises from inside the tank. In Eastern NC, hard water and sediment buildup can shorten the lifespan of your unit if it’s not flushed regularly. To maintain efficiency and prevent potential damage, a water heater should be flushed at least once a year to remove sediment buildup. If you have hard water, flushing it every six months is recommended.
Why it matters: A leaking or burst water heater can cause major damage to floors and surrounding walls. No hot water also creates sanitation concerns, especially for families with kids or elderly members. Emergency repair or replacement is the only solution.
5. Leaking or Broken Water Lines
Leaks aren’t always obvious. You might notice damp spots on the ceiling, water stains on walls, or a sudden spike in your utility bill before you realize there’s a problem. Underground line breaks can cause yard flooding, foundation damage, or drops in pressure.
Take it seriously: Ignoring a small leak can lead to structural issues or even contamination of your drinking water. Leak detection tools and prompt repairs from a professional plumber can stop the problem before it escalates.
Call Jackson & Sons for Emergency Plumbing Service Across Eastern NC
When plumbing emergencies strike, every minute counts. Jackson & Sons offers fast and reliable emergency plumbing service across Eastern NC. Our plumbers arrive fully equipped and ready to resolve the issue so you can get back to normal faster.