8 Things to Do in a Plumbing Emergency

Every homeowner dreads the sound of rushing water where it doesn’t belong. From a burst pipe in the dead of winter to an overflowing toilet after hours, these sudden mishaps can turn your home from a safe haven into a chaotic mess within minutes. In these moments, quick thinking and effective action are paramount. 

So how do you handle a plumbing emergency? Here are eight tips based on our experience offering emergency plumbing services: shut off water supply, assess the situation, turn off electrical appliances, open drains and spigots, call a professional plumber, mitigate water damage, avoid using the plumbing system, and don’t forget to document the damage.

What to do in a plumbing emergency

Jumping into action quickly can keep a small leak from turning into a full-on indoor pool situation. The faster you act, the less damage you’ll have, which also means spending less money on repairs.

1. Shut off water supply

Locate the main water shut-off valve in your home and turn it off. This valve is often found in the basement, near the water metre, or where the main water line enters your home. Turning off this valve will halt the water supply to the entire house, preventing any more water from contributing to the problem.

2. Assess the situation

Once you’ve stopped the water, assess the severity and source of the problem. Is it a burst pipe, a leaking fixture, or a blocked drain? Identifying the nature of the emergency will help you communicate more effectively with professionals when you call for help and can also guide your next steps in handling the crisis.

3. Turn off electrical appliances

If the plumbing issue has led to water accumulating near electrical appliances or outlets, it’s important to turn off the power at the circuit breaker. This step prevents any risk of electrical shocks or fires. Always prioritise safety and avoid standing in water when you access the electrical panel.

4. Open drains and spigots

After shutting off the main water supply, open any drains and spigots outside your home. This action helps to drain the remaining water in the pipes, which can relieve pressure and reduce the likelihood of further leaks or damage. It’s particularly useful in the case of a frozen pipe that may have burst.

5. Call a professional plumber

As soon as you've taken preliminary safety measures, contact a professional plumber. Keep a list of reliable 24/7 emergency plumbing services handy, or ask for recommendations from friends or neighbours who have had similar emergencies. It's important to describe the problem as accurately as possible over the phone so the plumber can prepare the necessary tools and parts.

6. Mitigate water damage

Move furniture, electronics, and other valuables to a dry area. If carpets, rugs, or floors are wet, use towels, mops, and buckets to remove as much water as possible. Speed up the drying process by opening windows or using fans and dehumidifiers if you have them. This not only reduces the risk of mould but also lessens the potential damage to your property.

7. Avoid using the plumbing system

Refrain from using any part of your plumbing system until the issue has been addressed by a professional. This includes flushing toilets, running taps, or using washing machines and dishwashers. Using the plumbing system when there’s a known issue can exacerbate the problem and lead to more severe damage.

8. Document the damage

Take detailed photos or videos of the affected area and any damage caused by the water. This documentation will be crucial for insurance claims and might be helpful for the plumber to see the extent of the damage. Keep a record of all communications with your insurance company and receipts for any repairs and replacements needed as a result of the plumbing emergency.

What counts as a plumbing emergency?

A plumbing emergency is basically when you have a situation at home with your plumbing that needs immediate attention because it could cause a lot of damage or pose a safety risk. Here are a few scenarios that definitely count as emergencies:

• Burst Pipes: This is a big one because it can flood your place really fast and cause serious damage to your walls, floors, furniture, and a whole lot of other things in your home.
• Severe Leaks: Whether it’s from your sink, toilet, or any pipes, if it’s more than just a drip and you can’t stop it, that’s an emergency.
• Blocked or Overflowing Toilets: If a plunger isn’t fixing it and it’s starting to overflow, you’ll want to get that sorted out quickly to avoid a real mess.
• No Water: If you suddenly find yourself without any water at all, something major could be wrong with your plumbing system.
• Sewer System Backup: Super gross and definitely urgent because it can be a health hazard with all that sewage backing up into your home.

If any of these things happen, it’s pretty much a race against the clock to get a plumber in and avoid a disaster.

Preventive measures and regular maintenance tips

Keeping up with regular maintenance can save you a ton of hassle and money down the line. Here are some preventive measures and tips to help keep your plumbing in tip-top shape:

• Regularly Check for Leaks: Keep an eye on your faucets, under sinks, and around the bases of toilets. Catching a leak early can prevent bigger issues later.
• Know Your Water Pressure: High water pressure can actually damage your pipes, cause leaks, and wear out your appliances faster. You can check it with a pressure gauge and adjust it with a pressure regulator if necessary.
• Drain Cleaning: Don’t wait for clogs to build up. Use a mild, natural cleaner like baking soda and vinegar monthly to keep your drains clear. Avoid chemical cleaners as they can eat away at your pipes.
• Inspect Your Water Heater: Check your water heater at least once a year for any signs of leakage or rust. Also, flush it annually to clear out sediment that can build up and cause it to work harder.
• Prevent Frozen Pipes: In cold weather, insulate pipes that are exposed to the cold and keep your home heated to a consistent temperature. If it gets really cold, letting a faucet drip can also prevent pipes from freezing.
• Clean Your Gutters: Keeping your gutters clean helps prevent water from backing up and causing problems with your home’s foundation or basement. 
• Schedule Professional Inspections: Sometimes you need a pro to catch the stuff that isn’t obvious. Having a plumber inspect your system every couple of years can help spot potential issues before they become emergencies.

The most important thing to know during an emergency is who to call for help

Plumbing emergencies can strike at any time, causing not only inconvenience but also potential damage to your home. Quick and effective action is necessary to mitigate issues such as burst pipes, severe leaks, or clogged drains. 

In a plumbing emergency, knowing the right number to dial can make all the difference. If you live in New South Wales, Australia, Team Penguin Plumbing has your back. We offer round-the-clock emergency plumbing services. From burst pipes in the wee hours to a troublesome leaking faucet that’s turned troublesome over the weekend, just give us a call at 0432 374 689.