Plumbing emergencies often happen without warning. Whether it’s a burst pipe, overflowing toilet, or a water heater leak, fast action can help minimize damage and save you money. Knowing what to do during those first critical moments can make all the difference while you wait for a professional plumber to arrive.
Here are essential emergency plumbing tips every homeowner should know.
1. Shut Off the Water Supply
The first step in any plumbing emergency is to stop the flow of water. For isolated issues like a leaky faucet or running toilet, use the shutoff valve near the fixture. For larger emergencies like a burst pipe or flooding, locate your home’s main water shutoff valve and turn it off immediately. Every household should know where this is located and ensure it turns easily.
2. Turn Off the Water Heater
In major leaks involving hot water, turning off your water heater can prevent damage to the unit and reduce the risk of pressure buildup or scalding water. For electric water heaters, turn off the power at the breaker. For gas units, turn the thermostat to the “pilot” setting.
3. Open Faucets to Drain Remaining Water
After shutting off your water supply, open the faucets to relieve pressure in the system and help drain any remaining water. This will slow leaks and reduce the risk of further pipe damage.
4. Stop Small Leaks Temporarily
Use towels, buckets, or plumber’s tape to contain minor leaks until help arrives. Even a small leak can cause water damage if left unattended. If you have pipe sealant or epoxy on hand, it may help temporarily seal the area—just remember this isn’t a permanent fix.
5. Avoid Using Chemical Drain Cleaners
During an emergency, avoid the temptation to pour chemicals down a clogged drain. They rarely work on severe clogs and can worsen the problem or damage pipes. If your sink or toilet is backing up, it’s better to wait for professional help.
6. Use the Plunger Properly
A plunger can often resolve simple toilet or sink blockages. Make sure there’s enough water in the bowl to cover the plunger’s rubber cup and use a firm, steady motion to create suction. If you can’t dislodge the clog after several attempts, don’t force it—this could cause further damage.
7. Move Valuables and Protect Surrounding Areas
If the leak or flood is near furniture, electronics, or stored items, move them to a dry area as quickly as possible. Use towels and plastic sheets to protect flooring or walls. The sooner you act, the less likely you’ll face long-term water damage.
8. Don’t Panic—Call a Licensed Emergency Plumber
Once you’ve taken initial steps to control the damage, call a licensed emergency plumber. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of mold growth, structural damage, or electrical hazards. Make sure the plumbing company you call is licensed, insured, and available 24/7.
9. Know What Constitutes a Plumbing Emergency
Some issues can wait until morning—but others can’t. True emergencies include:
- Burst pipes
- Sewage backups
- Gas line leaks
- No running water
- Overflowing toilets
- Water heater leaks or failure
If you’re unsure, it’s always safer to call and ask.
10. Keep a Basic Plumbing Emergency Kit
Every home should have an emergency plumbing kit with essentials like:
- Adjustable wrench
- Plumber’s tape
- Bucket
- Heavy-duty towels
- Flashlight
- Rubber gloves
- Allen wrench (for garbage disposal resets)
Having tools and supplies ready can buy you time and peace of mind.
How we can help
At Ava’s Plumbing, we understand that plumbing emergencies don’t wait for business hours—and neither do we. As San Diego’s fastest licensed plumbers, we’re available 24/7, including weekends and holidays. Our uniformed professionals arrive quickly, assess the problem, and resolve it with skill and care.
From burst pipes to sewer backups, we provide free estimates, financing options, and transparent service so you’re never left in the dark. If you’re facing a plumbing emergency, call Ava’s Plumbing now and get help when you need it most.