Plumbing Emergency Guide

Leaks and burst pipes are generally detectable by stains on the walls and ceilings, persistent hissing sounds, or an abrupt loss of water pressure.

Plumbing emergencies include burst pipes, flooding, damaged safety valves, backed-up drains, and more. While undoubtedly a stressful experience, homeowners shouldn’t panic.

Here’s what to do in a plumbing emergency.

Common plumbing emergencies

Leaks and burst pipes are generally detectable by stains on the walls and ceilings, persistent hissing sounds, or an abrupt loss of water pressure. Leaks can be major or minor, but both pose risks. Major leaks and burst pipes lead to pooling water and flooding if nothing is done about them. While minor leaks don’t have such dramatic or immediate effects, they can still cause rot and structural damage over time and encourage mold growth.

If drains or toilets are severely clogged, sewage water can back up instead of draining away, or there could be foul smells and gurgling noises. Severe clogs are unhygienic, render the drain or the toilet unusable, and potentially cause flooding.

Another possible plumbing emergency might be related to the water heater. The heater may fail to heat the water, leak, or produce strange noises. However, remember that water heater issues can be both plumbing and electrical so that they might need attention from a plumber and an electrician. 

Immediate steps to take

First, shut the water off. Find and turn off the nearest water source (if possible) or, preferably, the main water shut-off valve. If the pressure builds up, open the outdoor spigots to relieve pressure and move the water outside. The more water directed outside, the less likely it is to cause further damage inside.

Even if the water heater isn’t the problem, it’s safer to turn it off, too. If the water heater is the problem, turn it off immediately to prevent overheating or pressure hazards. 

Damage control

Apart from taking immediate action to prevent disaster, there are a few damage control tactics to try. First, if the water is spreading fast, use towels, buckets, or mops to contain it as much as possible. Towels and other items can create a “dam” to keep the water in one place. But keep an eye on it and hold it down tightly so the water doesn’t move them and continue spreading. 

If the damage is more considerable, take photos or videos for evidence. They can support insurance claims and serve as a record for repairs.

Call a professional

Call a professional plumber immediately if the situation goes beyond basic fixes or is risky to undertake as a DIY project. Find an expert firm that is open 24/7 and can respond right away. They have the experience and equipment to tackle any plumbing emergency quickly and efficiently.

Evenflow Home Services has earned a strong reputation for providing comprehensive residential and commercial plumbing services. Emergency services available. Call today at  (210) 941-3503.