Nobody knows exactly when a plumbing emergency will strike. No matter how well you maintain your plumbing system, something may unexpectedly break down when you least expect it. When it does happen, you will likely need to call a professional plumber on the spot.
(Pixabay / EugenesDIYDen)
You cannot postpone fixing a leaking water pipe. Time is of the essence. If it is not repaired immediately, your problem will multiply ten-fold. It could lead to house flooding, resulting in massive water damage that will cost a small fortune to correct.
Unfortunately, many people do not set aside money for such plumbing emergencies. The repair may be costly, especially if it happens in the middle of the night. Plumbers will usually charge you extra for after-hours repairs.
Smart homeowners set aside money each month for unanticipated home repairs. Saving money takes discipline. You may have to forego purchasing certain things you want in order to reserve money for things you may need—such as a surprise plumbing repair.
Here are some ideas to help you build up a “rainy day” fund for plumbing emergencies and take steps to safeguard yourself against potentially damaging plumbing problems:
- Save a little each month. Saving money is a difficult thing to do, but you can make arrangements with your bank to send a portion of your salary into a special account for emergencies. When problems occur, the money will be there.
- Take care of regular home maintenance, especially when it comes to plumbing. Spend time inspecting your plumbing system for any signs of leaks. Repair issues immediately to prevent problems from snowballing.
- Purchase a home plumbing warranty to cover regular maintenance. This will minimize the chance of a plumbing emergency.
Consult a professional plumber for any issues that you cannot fix yourself. While DIY projects are often a worthy endeavor, getting in over your head with something as volatile as plumbing systems can backfire.