What are some of the most common plumbers' tips for dealing with a plumbing emergency?

Dealing with Plumbing Emergencies: What You Need to Know

When it comes to plumbing emergencies, time is of the essence. Whether it's a burst pipe, a broken water heater, or a clogged drain, these issues can cause serious damage and cost you a lot of money. To help you deal with plumbing emergencies quickly and effectively, here are some tips.

1. Shut Off the Water Supply

The first step in dealing with any plumbing emergency is to shut off the water supply. This will help prevent further damage from occurring by stopping the flow of water into your home. Depending on the type of emergency, you may need to shut off either the main water valve or just the valve connected to the affected area.

2. Identify What's Wrong

Once you have shut off the water supply, it is important to identify what exactly is wrong so that you can take appropriate action. If there's a burst pipe, look for signs of leaking water and try to locate where it is coming from. If there's a clogged drain, try to figure out what is causing it.

3. Call an Expert Plumber

In most cases, calling an expert plumber when dealing with a plumbing emergency is your best bet as they have all the necessary tools and experience needed for diagnosing and repairing any issue quickly and efficiently. They can also provide advice on how to prevent similar problems from happening again in the future.

Frequently Asked Question

​What is the most common plumbing problem?
The most common plumbing problems are clogged drains and toilets, leaky faucets and pipes, water heater issues, low water pressure, and a running toilet. Each of these issues requires a different solution that we will cover below.
How do you know if you have a plumbing problem?
Brownish stains on your ceiling can indicate a plumbing leak if there is a bathroom located above it. Also, stained or warped walls and floors could be a sign of a leaking pipe and accumulating water.
What can cause plumbing issues?
  • Delaying Plumbing Repairs. Maybe you have a leak in your bathroom sink
  • Throwing Food Waste in the Drain
  • Washing Hair Down the Drain
  • Allowing Dirt to Clog Your Pipes
  • Using Soap Bars With Fat
  • Tossing Objects in the Toilet
​How do I know if my drain is clogged?
Early warning signs of the drain being clogged are hearing bubbling or gurgling sounds coming from one or more of your drains. Or your toilet water or faucets may bubble, and waste water may back up into your tub or shower drain when you flush.
​How often should plumbing pipes be replaced?
The lifespan for the most common residential plumbing systems are: Brass: 40 to 70 years. Copper: 50 or more years. Galvanized steel: 20 to 50 years.
​What are common drain pipe problems?
  • Slow Drains. Healthy pipes should not run slow
  • Frequent Clogs. Another telling sign that you have a drain problem is that you frequently get a clog
  • Unpleasant Odors
  • Strange Noises
  • Flooding
  • Root Infiltration
  • Improper Plumbing Installation
What are the signs of a broken sewer pipe?
Four of the most common signs of a broken sewer line include multiple slow drains, foul smells inside the house, mold or mildew in the basement, and an increased presence of pests. Plumbing-related issues aren't always easy to spot – especially ones that occur underground.
How do you tell if pipes are leaking behind a wall
Signs of Water Leaks in Walls
  • Damp or discolored drywall.
  • Peeling paint or wallpaper on your wall.
  • A warped or stained wall.
  • A buckle, crack, or water stain on drywall ceiling or your floor.
  • Pools of water on the floor near walls or drips from the ceiling.
  • A musty smell.