Your guide to common emergency plumbing issues like sump pumps, garbage disposals gone rogue, and drains that just won’t drain
There’s no good time for a plumbing emergency—especially when your sump pump gives up during a storm, your garbage disposal starts smelling like a compost pile, or the kitchen sink decides to retire from draining. At Ensor Plumbing, we’ve seen it all, and then some. So let’s talk about how to spot trouble before it turns into a full-blown plumbing panic—and what to do when it already has.
Sump Pumps: Your Basement’s Unsung Hero
When Maryland gets hit with heavy rain (hello, spring storms and surprise summer downpours), your sump pump is your home’s last line of defense against a soggy basement. But like any hardworking hero, it can get overwhelmed or neglected.
Signs your sump pump needs attention:
- Strange noises (grinding, rattling, or constant cycling)
- Visible rust or debris clogging the intake
- Running non-stop, even when it’s not raining
- No activity at all when water levels rise
If your basement is beginning to resemble a kiddie pool—or even if it’s just feeling unusually damp—it might be time to give us a call. Quick action can prevent costly water damage and mold.
Garbage Disposal Woes: Smells Like Trouble
Let’s get one thing straight: your garbage disposal isn’t a garbage can. It’s a convenience tool meant to handle some food scraps—not everything you didn’t want to finish at dinner.
If you’re dealing with:
- Foul odors that won’t go away, no matter how much lemon you toss in
- Slow drainage in your sink
- Strange grinding noises
- Leaks underneath the unit
- Or the dreaded “it just doesn’t turn on anymore”
…there’s a good chance something’s gone wrong. It could be a clog, a motor issue, or just years of wear and tear catching up.
Pro tip: Avoid putting fibrous veggies (like celery), eggshells, grease, and coffee grounds down the disposal. Trust us—your plumbing will thank you.
Clogged Drains: Not Just an Annoyance
A slow drain in your sink or tub isn’t just a minor inconvenience. It can be a red flag for deeper blockages or buildup that could lead to backups (and no one wants *that* mess).
You might have a clogged drain if:
- Water pools before slowly spiraling away
- You hear gurgling or bubbling sounds
- You smell something funky from the drain
- Multiple drains are acting up at once
Avoid the temptation of over-the-counter drain cleaners—they’re often a short-term fix and can damage your pipes. Our team uses safe, professional methods to clear blockages and get your pipes flowing freely again.
When It’s Urgent, We’re On It.
At Ensor Plumbing, we know plumbing problems rarely clock in during business hours. That’s why our experienced technicians are ready to handle residential emergencies, from sump pump failures to garbage disposals that have truly had enough.
Don’t wait for a small issue to become a plumbing catastrophe. Whether you need emergency service or just some professional advice, we’re here to help keep your home safe, dry, and running smoothly.
Give us a call anytime—because it’s a disposal, not a “dispose all.”