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What to Do in a Plumbing Emergency: A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners
In this guide, we’ll walk you through quick and effective steps to take during a plumbing emergency and explain when it’s time to call a 24/7 emergency plumber.
1. Shut Off the Water Supply Immediately
If you notice a major leak, burst pipe, or overflowing fixture, the first thing to do is turn off the main water supply to stop the flow of water.
How to Find Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve:
• Inside the Home: Usually located in the basement, garage, or utility room.
• Outside the Home: Near the water meter or street connection.
Tip: If the leak is isolated (like a toilet or sink), you can shut off the individual supply valve instead of turning off the entire house’s water.
2. Stop Small Leaks Before They Get Worse
For minor leaks from pipes, faucets, or appliances:
• Use a bucket or towels to catch dripping water.
• Wrap plumbing repair tape or cloth around the leak as a temporary fix.
• Turn off water to the affected area to prevent further damage.
Tip: If you have a burst pipe, turn off your water heater to prevent overheating and pressure buildup.
3. Address Clogged or Overflowing Drains
A slow or overflowing drain can quickly become a disaster if not handled properly.
What to Do:
• Use a plunger to try and clear the clog.
• Pour hot water and dish soap down the drain to break up grease buildup.
• Avoid chemical drain cleaners—they can damage pipes.
Call an emergency plumber if:
• Water is backing up into sinks, tubs, or toilets.
• You hear gurgling noises from drains.
• Sewage odors are present (could indicate a serious sewer line issue).
4. Turn Off the Water Heater
If your water heater is leaking or malfunctioning:
• Shut off the power supply (electric: switch off the breaker, gas: turn the gas valve to “off”).
• Shut off the water supply to the heater.
• Avoid using hot water until a plumber inspects the unit.
Signs of Water Heater Trouble:
• No hot water
• Strange noises (banging, rumbling)
• Water pooling around the unit
5. Check for Gas Leaks
If your plumbing emergency involves a gas-powered water heater or appliances and you smell gas:
• Do not turn on lights or use electronics.
• Do not use open flames.
• Open windows and doors for ventilation.
• Evacuate immediately and call 911 or your gas provider.
6. Call a 24/7 Emergency Plumber
Call a licensed emergency plumber right away if you experience:
• Burst pipes
• Sewage backups
• No water or no hot water
• Low water pressure
• Overflowing toilets
Call Repipe Champions Plumbing and Rooter at +1(408) 295-4309 for 24/7 emergency plumbing services.
How to Prevent Future Plumbing Emergencies
• Inspect your plumbing regularly.
• Know the location of your shut-off valves.
• Install a smart water shut-off valve.
• Schedule annual maintenance.
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A plumbing emergency can’t wait. Our licensed and insured team is ready 24/7 to handle any issue quickly and efficiently.
Top 5 Most Common Plumbing Emergencies and How to Prevent Them
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1. Burst Pipes – The Fastest Way to Flood Your Home
A burst pipe can flood your home within minutes, leading to extensive water damage, mold growth, and costly repairs. Pipes typically burst due to freezing temperatures, corrosion, or high water pressure.
How to Prevent a Burst Pipe:
• Insulate exposed pipes in colder months.
• Keep the heat on during winter, even when away.
• Replace rusted or aging pipes.
• Monitor water pressure to avoid long-term damage.
Emergency Tip: Shut off your main water valve immediately and call a plumber.
2. Clogged or Overflowing Toilet – A Mess You Don’t Want
Toilet overflows are common and often caused by flushing non-flushable items, excessive paper use, or sewer line issues.
How to Prevent Toilet Clogs:
• Only flush toilet paper.
• Avoid wipes, cotton balls, and hygiene products.
• Teach children what should not be flushed.
• Maintain older sewer lines regularly.
Emergency Tip: Shut off the water supply behind the toilet and use a plunger. If it doesn’t clear, call a plumber.
3. Leaking Water Heater – No Hot Water and Potential Flooding
Water heater leaks can result from sediment buildup, rust, or pressure inside the tank, leading to both flooding and loss of hot water.
How to Prevent Water Heater Emergencies:
• Flush the tank annually.
• Check for rust or water pooling.
• Install a pressure relief valve.
• Replace units older than 10 years.
Emergency Tip: Shut off the unit’s power and water supply, then call a licensed plumber.
4. Sewer Backup – A Smelly and Dangerous Problem
Sewer backups push wastewater into your home, posing serious health risks and requiring immediate response.
How to Prevent a Sewer Backup:
• Never pour grease down drains.
• Install a backwater valve.
• Schedule routine sewer line inspections.
• Avoid planting trees near sewer lines.
Emergency Tip: Gurgling toilets, foul odors, or slow drains? Call a plumber immediately.
5. Major Faucet or Pipe Leaks – Silent Water Wasters
Even small leaks can cause mold growth, damage, and inflated water bills over time.
How to Prevent Leaks:
• Inspect plumbing for drips or moisture.
• Replace worn-out washers and seals.
• Install a smart water shut-off valve.
• Watch for unexplained increases in your water bill.
Emergency Tip: Shut off the water supply and contact a plumber promptly.
When Should You Call an Emergency Plumber?
Contact a licensed plumber immediately if you experience:
• Burst pipes
• Overflowing toilets
• Sewer backup
• No hot water
• Leaking gas lines (Call 911 first, then a plumber)
Need Emergency Plumbing Help?
Call Repipe Champions Plumbing and Rooter at +1(408) 295-4309
We offer fast, affordable, 24/7 emergency plumbing throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.
How to Prevent Future Plumbing Emergencies
• Know your main shut-off valve location.
• Schedule annual plumbing checkups.
• Upgrade old pipes and appliances.
• Avoid DIY fixes for major plumbing problems.
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24/7 Emergency Plumbing Services Available in These Bay Area Cities – Fast Response, Local Technicians, No Hidden Fees
Campbell
Cupertino
Gilroy
Los Altos
Los Altos Hills
Los Gatos
Menlo Park
Milpitas
Monte Sereno
Morgan Hill
Mountain View
Palo Alto
Portola Valley
san Jose
Santa Clara
Saratoga
Sunnyvale
Woodside
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