Some plumbing problems can wait for a weekday visit. Others cannot. A burst pipe or a sewage backup can damage floors, walls and belongings in a few hours. Knowing the emergency plumbing signs helps you act fast and limit the damage. Fast action can also keep a repair smaller and less costly.
Here are the signs that mean you should call a plumber right away. You will also learn what to do while you wait.
First Steps in Any Plumbing Emergency
Before you call, take a moment to protect your home. These quick steps can stop more water from flowing.
- Find your main water shutoff. It is often in a basement, crawl space, garage or near the water heater. Turn it clockwise to close it.
- Shut off the water heater if the leak is near it. Turn off the power or set the gas valve to off.
- Keep people and pets away from standing water near outlets or cords.
- Take photos of the damage for your records.
Then call a licensed plumber. Right Now is available 24/7 at (208) 738-5175.
7 Emergency Plumbing Signs
If you notice any of these problems, do not wait. Each one can get worse fast.
1. A Burst or Leaking Pipe
Water spraying from a pipe is the clearest emergency there is. A burst pipe can release a lot of water in a short time. Shut off the main valve and call for help.
2. Frozen Pipes With No Water Flow
In cold weather, a faucet that gives no water or only a trickle may have a frozen pipe. Frozen pipes can crack and burst as they thaw. Our frozen pipes service can thaw and repair them safely. For prevention tips, read what to do when you have frozen pipes.
3. Sewage Backing Up
Sewage coming up through a tub, shower or floor drain is a health risk. It usually means the main sewer line is blocked. Stop using water in the home and call a plumber. Our sewer cleaning team can clear the line.
4. Several Drains Clogged at Once
One slow drain is a nuisance. Several slow or gurgling drains at the same time point to a bigger blockage. Left alone, this can lead to a backup. Learn more about our clogged drain services.
5. A Leaking Water Heater
A small drip from a valve may be a simple fix. Water pooling under the tank is more serious. A leaking tank can fail without warning. Turn off the water and power to the unit. Then call for water heater repair.
6. An Overflowing Toilet That Will Not Stop
If a toilet keeps overflowing, turn the shutoff valve behind it clockwise. If water still rises, close the main valve. A toilet that clogs again and again may have a deeper line problem. A cracked tank or a toilet that rocks on the floor can also leak onto the subfloor. Our toilet repair and installation team can fix or replace it.
7. Water Stains or Wet Spots That Grow
A brown stain on the ceiling or a soft spot on the floor can mean a hidden leak. Hidden leaks can cause mold and rot. Turn off the water and call a plumber to find the source.
When to Call Your Gas Utility Instead
A rotten egg smell near a gas water heater is not a plumbing call first. Leave the home right away. Do not use switches or phones inside. Call your gas utility or 911 from outside. Once the area is safe, a technician can check the water heater.
How to Prevent Plumbing Emergencies
Many emergencies give warning signs first. A few habits can help you catch them early.
- Keep grease, wipes and food scraps out of drains.
- Insulate pipes in garages, crawl spaces and outside walls.
- Disconnect garden hoses before the first freeze.
- Know where your main shutoff valve is and test it once a year.
- Have your water heater checked once a year.
- Watch your water bill. A sudden jump with no change in use can point to a hidden leak.
Get Emergency Plumbing Help From Right Now
Plumbing emergencies do not keep business hours. Right Now offers 24/7 emergency service for homes across Idaho and the Tri-Cities in Washington. You get upfront pricing options before work begins. See all of our plumbing services or call (208) 738-5175 now.
