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What to Do in a Plumbing Emergency (Before the Plumber Arrives)

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When water’s gushing from the ceiling or your drains are backing up into the tub, panic can set in fast. But don’t worry—knowing a few key steps can help you stay calm and stop the damage from getting worse while you wait for professional help.

Plumbing emergencies are stressful, but you don’t have to face them alone. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a sewage backup, or no water pressure at all, taking action quickly can make a big difference. 

Step 1: Stay Calm and Quickly Assess the Situation

First things first: take a breath. Staying calm helps you think clearly and act fast.

Now take a quick look around:

  • Is water spraying or dripping from a visible pipe?

  • Are toilets or drains backing up?

  • Do you have no water pressure at all?

  • Is there a strange smell, like sewage or gas?

Identifying the type of emergency helps you decide what to do next.

Step 2: Shut Off the Water Supply

This is one of the most important steps—and the sooner, the better.

  • Main Shut-Off Valve: Find your home’s main water valve (usually near the perimeter of the house, basement, or garage) and turn it off.

  • Localized Valves: For issues with a single fixture—like a toilet or sink—you can often turn off the water supply directly beneath it.

Turning off the water quickly can prevent thousands of dollars in water damage.

TIP: If you’re not sure where your main water shut-off valve is, now’s the perfect time to find out—it could make all the difference in an emergency. This quick guide from Harris County Fresh Water Supply District #61 is a great place to start.

Step 3: Turn Off the Water Heater (If Necessary)

If the leak involves your water heater or a large amount of hot water, turn it off to avoid pressure buildup or overheating.

  • For electric heaters, shut it off at the breaker.

  • For gas heaters, turn the dial to the “off” position.

When in doubt, leave it and wait for the pros—but if it’s safe, this step can help avoid further damage.

Step 4: Contain and Minimize the Damage

Even after the water is off, there may still be standing water or active leaks. Grab:

  • Towels or blankets to absorb water.

  • Buckets or pans to catch drips.

  • A wet/dry vacuum if you have one.

Move electronics, rugs, and valuables out of the way if it’s safe to do so.

Step 5: Watch for Electrical Hazards

Water and electricity are a dangerous mix - there’s no safe way around it. If there’s any chance that water is touching electrical outlets, appliances, or wiring behind the walls, take immediate caution:

  • Stay out of the area and keep others away.

  • Don’t try to unplug, move, or use anything near the water.

  • If it’s safe, shut off power at the breaker to that part of the house—or shut off the main breaker entirely if you’re unsure.

  • Never attempt to test or dry out outlets yourself.

When water gets into an outlet or wiring, it can cause short circuits, electrical shock, or even fires. Modern homes often have GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets, which automatically cut power when water is detected. But older homes may not, which makes knowing where your breaker box is—and how to safely cut power—especially important.

If you don’t know how to handle the electrical risk safely, wait for a professional. Your safety is worth it.

Step 6: Skip the DIY Fixes (Really)

It’s tempting to patch things up, but that can make the problem worse—especially if you’re using the wrong materials or over-tightening fittings.

Temporary fixes (like wrapping a leak with a towel or duct tape) are okay in a pinch, but avoid anything that could cause more damage.

Step 7: Call a Licensed Professional 

A quick response matters. Plumbing problems can get worse quickly, leading to more damage and higher repair costs if left unchecked. Once you’ve taken steps to stop the immediate issue—like shutting off the water and staying safe—it’s time to call in the experts. A licensed plumber has the tools and experience to diagnose the problem, make repairs safely, and help prevent future issues. Don’t wait—getting professional help ensures the job is done right the first time and gives you peace of mind.

Step 8: Prep for the Plumber’s Arrival

While you wait, you can make things easier for your plumber:

  • Clear the area if possible.

  • Write down what you’ve already done or observed.

  • Keep pets and young kids away from the problem area.

This helps the plumber work faster and more efficiently when they arrive.

Help Is Always Just a Call Away

Plumbing emergencies are overwhelming—but you’re not alone. With a few quick actions and the right help, you can protect your home and get back to normal. Save our number now so you’re ready the next time something unexpected happens.
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