Plumbing is something that many homeowners take for granted. It isn't until your plumbing system begins to malfunction that you pay attention to this vital system within your home.

Plumbing problems are not limited to normal work hours, they can pop up at any time.

Some plumbing issues don't need to be addressed right away. Others must be taken care of immediately to avoid additional damage to your home. Knowing how to tell the difference between a minor plumbing problem and a serious plumbing emergency will help you determine when you need to contact an emergency plumber for help.

1. Flooding

Anytime you see evidence of flooding inside your home, you should contact an emergency plumber right away. Many plumbing issues can create flooding. These include damaged fittings, burst pipes, or broken fixtures.

Pooling water has the potential to destroy many of the materials found in your home. By contacting an emergency plumber for help as soon as you spot signs of flooding, you can correct your plumbing problem without having to replace carpeting, drywall, or other construction materials.

2. Sewage Odors

The last thing you want is to come home to a residence that smells like raw sewage. Sewage odors in your home are surely unpleasant, but they can be dangerous as well. Exposure to the hydrogen sulfide found in most sewer lines can create physical problems, like fatigue or respiratory ailments.

The sewage odor you are smelling could be due to something as simple as a dry trap in one of your drains, or it could stem from a broken sewer line that has allowed raw sewage to back up through the drains in your basement. An emergency plumber will be able to identify the cause of the odors and make repairs to protect your family against the dangers of hydrogen sulfide inhalation.

3. Unexplained Water

Unexplained water on the walls, ceilings, or vents in your home should be cause for concern. This water typically comes from a leaking or burst pipe. Most of the pipes that connect your plumbing fixtures are hidden behind walls or ceilings. This can make it difficult to inspect the pipes for signs of damage.

Water stains or dripping water that can't be explained should always be checked out by an emergency plumber. If you allow the leak to continue until business hours roll around, you could end up with even more damage to repair.

Talk to a plumber who offers 24-hour emergency plumbing services to learn more.