San Diego County Plumbing Safety Tips

Typically, San Diego plumbing repairs are best left to the professionals. This is because tackling a job at home with DIY techniques could pose several safety hazards. DIY repair and installation can be extremely risky, as most people don’t know the proper procedures to keep themselves, their loved ones, and their property safe.

Ultimately, hiring a professional will prove more cost-effective in the long run, but everyone should be aware of safety tips for household plumbing should an emergency arise.

Safe Solutions to Plumbing Issues in San Diego, CA

At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of San Diego County, our team of professionals is passionate about ensuring your safety, as well as that of your family and your property. When emergency plumbing situations arise, you might be tempted to try to address the issue yourself. This could have devastating consequences, and we want to be there no matter what to ensure the repair is done properly and mitigate any harm to your home or family.

Protect Your Safety by Following These Plumbing Tips

Below is a list of tips and safety hazards you might encounter if you try to repair issues yourself. However, the most important tip is to avoid DIY plumbing altogether. If you understand the risks that might arise, you can protect yourself and your family while you wait for the professionals to address the problem.

Prevent Exposure to Toxins and Harmful Substances

During repairs, you may be exposed to harmful toxins or other substances that can be risky to your health and well-being. These substances might include asbestos, sulfur dioxide, and lead. If your home was built before the 1970s, there is a good chance that your system includes lead or asbestos. Also, sulfur dioxide could be an issue, as the breakdown of waste emits this gas.

DIY plumbing can also lead to exposure to chemicals. Many repairs include the need to use certain adhesives, solvents, or soldering materials. These can all be harmful if they come into contact with skin or eyes. Professionals have the training to use these necessary tools and understand the precautions to keep themselves and you safe from toxins and chemical exposure. If you perform plumbing repairs yourself, you must know these risks.

Guard Against Electrical Shock

Another risk that plumbers often encounter is electrical shock. Water and electrical currents don’t mix; however, in some cases, water leakages can reach your home’s wiring, and some appliances, like an electric hot water heater, won’t work without electricity. This is why it is essential to ensure that your home’s water supply and electrical system are shut off when repairing the system. Professionals understand this risk and have undergone the necessary training to mitigate the chances of electrical shock.

Use Plumbing Safety Gear

When an emergency arises, it is best to contact a plumber who can address the problem quickly and mitigate health or damage risks. However, if you need to take care of an issue before they arrive, like turning off the water supply or unclogging a drain, use this safety gear.

• Eye gear: This can protect your eyes from coming into contact with harmful chemicals and foreign objects.
• Ear gear: This can protect your ears from harsh sounds, which have the potential to lead to hearing loss and damage over time.
• Protective clothing: Plumbing emergencies can often involve exposure to chemicals and other dangerous toxins, which is why it is essential to protect your skin.
• Face mask: Your lungs need to be protected from the scent of raw sewage, potential asbestos exposure, and other chemicals and biohazards.
• Sturdy footwear: Having to rush down to the basement to shut off the water supply to your home before the plumber arrives can involve you coming into contact with leaks and subsequent slippery surfaces. Non-slip shoes can help with this.

Reach Out to Mr. Rooter Before Attempting a DIY Repair

It is best to leave the plumbing repair issues to the experts. However, some calls for quick action before the experts reach your residence. Knowing the risks and how to mitigate them is essential when this occurs. Contact Mr. Rooter for any plumbing emergencies or other repairs before attempting the work yourself.