Top 10 plumbing emergencies and how to handle them

Plumbing emergencies can strike at any time, causing damage to your home and disrupting daily life. Knowing how to respond quickly can minimize the damage and prevent costly repairs. This guide covers the top 10 most common plumbing emergencies and what you should do when they occur.

1. Burst pipes

Signs of a burst pipe:

• Sudden drop in water pressure

• Water pooling on floors, walls, or ceilings

• Strange noises like banging or hissing from pipes

What to do:

1. Shut off the main water supply immediately to prevent further flooding.

2. Turn off the electricity if water is near electrical outlets or appliances.

3. Drain excess water by turning on faucets and flushing toilets.

4. Apply a temporary patch with duct tape or pipe sealant until a plumber arrives.

When to call a plumber: If the damage is extensive or you cannot locate the broken pipe.

2. Clogged drains

Signs of a clogged drain:

• Slow-draining water in sinks, tubs, or showers

• Unpleasant odors coming from drains

• Gurgling sounds when using water

What to do:

1. Try a plunger to loosen the blockage.

2. Use a baking soda and vinegar solution to break down minor clogs.

3. Avoid chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage pipes over time.

When to call a plumber: If the clog persists after multiple attempts or if multiple drains are clogged at once.

3. Overflowing toilet

Signs of a toilet overflow:

• Rising water levels when flushing

• Water spilling onto the floor

What to do:

1. Turn off the toilet’s water supply valve, located behind the toilet.

2. Use a plunger to try and remove the clog.

3. If plunging fails, use a toilet auger or plumbing snake.

When to call a plumber: If you suspect a deeper blockage in the sewer line or frequent overflows occur.

4. Water heater failure

Signs of water heater issues:

• No hot water

• Rusty or discolored water

• Unusual noises from the heater tank

What to do:

1. Check the thermostat and adjust the temperature settings.

2. Inspect the pilot light (for gas heaters) and relight if necessary.

3. Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup.

???? When to call a plumber: If the water heater is leaking or making loud noises, indicating a potential failure.

5. Leaky faucets and fixtures

Signs of a leak:

• Constant dripping sound

• Increased water bills

• Water stains under sinks or on walls

What to do:

1. Turn off the water supply to the fixture.

2. Tighten loose connections or replace worn washers.

3. Apply plumber’s tape for minor leaks as a temporary fix.

When to call a plumber: If leaks persist despite repairs or are coming from hidden pipes.

6. Sewer line backup

Signs of a sewer backup:

• Multiple drains clogging at the same time

• Foul sewage smell inside the home

• Gurgling sounds from toilets and drains

What to do:

1. Stop using water to prevent waste from backing up further.

2. Check the main sewer cleanout outside your home for visible blockages.

3. Try using a plumbing snake if the issue is localized.

When to call a plumber: Immediately—sewer backups require professional repair.

7. Frozen pipes

Signs of frozen pipes:

• No water coming from faucets

• Frost visible on exposed pipes

• Strange banging noises when turning on taps

What to do:

1. Keep faucets open to relieve pressure as the ice melts.

2. Use a hairdryer or heating pad to thaw pipes slowly.

3. Wrap pipes in towels soaked with warm water for gentle heating.

When to call a plumber: If pipes burst or remain frozen despite your efforts.

8. Low water pressure

Signs of low water pressure:

• Weak water flow from taps

• Slow-filling sinks or bathtubs

• Inconsistent water pressure throughout the home

What to do:

1. Check for leaks in visible pipes.

2. Clean aerators in faucets to remove sediment buildup.

3. Inspect the main water valve to ensure it is fully open.

When to call a plumber: If pressure remains low despite troubleshooting efforts.

9. Gas line leaks (emergency!)

Signs of a gas leak:

• Strong smell of rotten eggs

• Hissing sound near gas appliances

• Feeling dizzy, nauseous, or lightheaded indoors

What to do:

1. Evacuate your home immediately.

2. Shut off the gas supply at the main valve (if safe to do so).

3. Call your gas company and 911.

When to call a plumber: After emergency services confirm it's safe, a licensed plumber can inspect and repair gas lines.

10. Sump pump failure

Signs of sump pump failure:

• Water accumulating in the basement

• Pump running constantly or not turning on at all

• Loud or unusual noises from the pump

What to do:

1. Check the power supply and ensure the pump is plugged in.

2. Inspect the float switch for obstructions.

3. Clear debris from the intake screen to prevent clogging.

When to call a plumber: If the sump pump fails repeatedly or water damage is extensive.

Conclusion

Plumbing emergencies can cause significant damage if not addressed quickly. By knowing how to respond to common issues like burst pipes, clogged drains, and gas leaks, homeowners can minimize damage before professional help arrives.