1. ❄️ Burst or Frozen Pipes
During the January 2022 cold snap, temperatures in Brookhaven dropped into the teens, causing dozens of homeowners along Dresden Drive and Caldwell Road to report frozen or burst pipes. According to Georgia Emergency Management, water expands as it freezes, which can rupture pipes in unheated or poorly insulated areas. Kitchen and bathroom water supply lines on exterior walls, water heaters, and exposed pipes in an unheated garage or utility room are most at risk of freezing in frigid weather.
How To Prevent Pipes From Freezing in Brookhaven
Keep your home at a safe temperature of at least 55 degrees in winter. Opening under-sink cabinets warms pipes on cold nights, and leaving a faucet running all night prevents freezing. Also, insulating exposed pipes in your home is critical. It’s easy to do; pipe insulation is a pool noodle with a slit to make it easy to open and fit around your pipes. Take measures to insulate your water heater, whether a traditional tank heater or a tankless model. Yes, tankless water heaters can freeze and burst.
How Can I Tell If My Pipes Are Frozen?
- No water flow or sudden flooding
- Water stains on walls or ceilings
- Unusual clanking noises behind walls
What To Do When Your Pipes Freeze
- Shut off your main water valve (usually in the basement or near the water meter).
- Open faucets to release pressure.
- Use a hairdryer or space heater to thaw exposed sections gently. Avoid DIY pipe thawing with open flames—it’s a serious fire hazard, especially in older Brookhaven homes like those in Historic Brookhaven or Lynwood Park.
- Call an emergency plumber in Brookhaven to assess hidden leaks and prevent water damage.
2. 💩 Sewer Line Backups
In June 2023, a municipal sewer main on North Druid Hills Road backed up due to heavy rainfall, flooding nearby homes and yards. These backups can push contaminated water into your plumbing system, creating a hazardous environment. Learn about raw sewage dangers at the CDC Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene-related Emergencies.
Signs Of Sewer Backups
- Sewage gas smells and rotten egg odors
- Multiple sink and tub or shower drains are backing up
- Overflowing toilets
What To Do When Sewers Back Up
- Stop all water usage immediately.
- Isolate the affected area to protect your property and personal health.
- Contact an emergency plumber due to significant contamination risks and potential structural damage.
3. 🔥 Gas Leak Emergencies
Late 2021 saw a gas leak scare in Briarwood Park that required. Natural gas is dangerous and requires a swift response. Read more on being safe when gas lines leak in USFA’s severe weather safety guide.
How To Recognize A Gas Leak
- Strong sulfur or “rotten egg” smell
- Hissing sound from appliances or pipes
- Dead plants around the gas line outdoors
Critical Steps for Surviving Gas Leaks
- Evacuate immediately without flipping switches.
- Avoid cell phone use near the leak.
- Call Atlanta Gas Light and your emergency plumber in Brookhaven from a safe distance.
4. Water Heater Failures
Hot water heater issues are common in Brookhaven homes, especially those with aging systems. In March 2023, a family in the Murphey Candler Park area faced flooding when their 15-year-old heater burst overnight.
How Will I know When My Water Heater Is Dying?
- Water is pooling near your unit.
- Inconsistent hot water or no hot water at all
- Rumbling noises or odd smells coming from the tank
Do This When Water Heaters Malfunction
- Turn off the unit’s power or gas supply.
- Shut the water valve to the heater.
- Call a plumber to inspect and possibly replace it.
5. 🌀 Major Drain Clogs
Residents near Brookhaven’s Town Center have reported severe kitchen and bathroom backups due to aging pipes. These systems are prone to clogging from years of accumulated debris. The EPA advises maintenance to prevent backups.
How Can I Tell I Have Major Drain Clogs?
- Slow-draining sinks or water pooling in showers
- Slow flushing toilets
What You Should Do In A Drain Emergency
Skip harsh chemical drain cleaners for overflowing toilets that cannot be cleared by plunging. Instead, emergency plumbers in Brookhaven use hydrojetting—a powerful, safe solution that clears blockages without damaging pipes.
🛀 Choosing the Right Emergency Plumber in Brookhaven
- Check local reviews and response times
- Ensure transparent pricing and guarantees
- Keep our number in a safe place and call 404-873-1881!
Whether dealing with burst pipes in Ashford Park or a water heater failure in Historic Brookhaven, a trusted emergency plumber can save the day. Stay informed, stay safe, and stay ready.
FAQs About Brookhaven Emergency Plumber Services
- How quickly can an emergency plumber arrive in Brookhaven?
- Usually within 30-60 minutes, depending on location.
- Is emergency plumbing more expensive?
- Yes, due to urgency and potential after-hours calls.
- What should I do if my water heater leaks?
- Shut off water and power (if safe), then call a licensed plumber.
- Can I prevent frozen pipes?
- Yes, by insulating pipes, letting faucets drip in frigid temperatures, and keeping your home above 55°F.
- Why shouldn’t I handle a gas leak myself?
- Gas leaks are explosive hazards. Leave it to certified professionals.