Emergency Plumbing: What to Do Before the Plumber Arrives
Plumbing emergencies can happen at any time, causing stress, inconvenience, and potential damage to your home. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a blocked drain, or a leaking gas line, knowing what to do before the plumber arrives can help minimise damage and keep your home safe. At Plumbsave, we understand the urgency of plumbing emergencies, and we’re here to provide quick and reliable solutions. In this blog, we’ll outline key steps homeowners should take when faced with a plumbing emergency.
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
One of the first steps in any plumbing emergency is to shut off the water supply. This can prevent further flooding and water damage. The main water shut-off valve is typically located near the water meter, either outside the house or in the basement. If the issue is isolated to a specific fixture, such as a leaking toilet or sink, you can use the local shut-off valve instead of turning off the entire water supply.
How to shut off the water:
- Locate the main shut-off valve (usually near the water meter or where the main water line enters your home).
- Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water.
- If the problem is localised (e.g., a leaking sink or toilet), turn off the water supply at the fixture’s shut-off valve.
2. Contain Leaks and Remove Excess Water
If a pipe has burst or a leak is causing water to spread, try to contain the water as much as possible. Use towels, buckets, or even a mop to absorb excess water and prevent further damage to floors, walls, and furniture.
Steps to contain leaks:
- Place towels or rags around the affected area.
- Use a bucket or container to catch dripping water.
- If necessary, place a waterproof cover or plastic sheet over valuable items to protect them from water exposure.
3. Turn Off the Water Heater
If you experience a major plumbing emergency involving a burst pipe or a significant leak, it’s a good idea to turn off your water heater. This prevents damage to the heater and avoids the risk of overheating or pressure buildup.
How to shut off the water heater:
- For gas water heaters, turn the gas supply valve to the “off” position.
- For electric water heaters, switch off the power at the circuit breaker.
4. Address Minor Clogs Temporarily
If you’re dealing with a blocked drain or toilet, you can attempt a temporary fix while waiting for the plumber. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage your pipes. Instead, try these methods:
- Use a plunger: For sink, shower, or toilet clogs, a plunger can help loosen blockages.
- Try a drain snake: If you have a small drain snake or auger, you can attempt to remove minor blockages.
- Use boiling water (for sinks only): Pouring boiling water down the drain may help dissolve grease and soap buildup.
If the clog persists, avoid forcing it further and wait for professional assistance.
5. Check for Gas Leaks and Turn Off the Gas Supply
Gas leaks are extremely dangerous and require immediate action. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, do the following:
- Evacuate your home immediately.
- Do not use electrical appliances, light switches, or anything that could create a spark.
- Turn off the gas supply at the main valve if it is safe to do so (usually located outside near the gas meter).
- Call your gas provider and emergency plumber for immediate assistance.
6. Secure Loose Pipes or Fixtures
If a pipe or fixture has come loose, you can take temporary measures to secure it before the plumber arrives.
Temporary fixes include:
- Wrapping a leaking pipe with waterproof tape or a rubber patch.
- Using a pipe clamp to temporarily seal a small crack or hole.
- Tightening any loose connections with a wrench (but avoid over-tightening, as it could cause further damage).
7. Keep Your Family Safe
During a plumbing emergency, your priority should be the safety of your household. Here are a few precautions to keep everyone safe:
- Keep children and pets away from the affected area.
- Be cautious around standing water, especially near electrical appliances.
- Avoid DIY repairs that could worsen the situation or put you at risk.
8. Call Plumbsave for Emergency Plumbing Services
Once you’ve taken the necessary steps to minimise damage, call a professional plumber immediately. At Plumbsave, we offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services to ensure that your plumbing issues are resolved quickly and efficiently.
When calling a plumber, provide the following information:
- A description of the issue (e.g., burst pipe, blocked drain, gas leak).
- The location of the problem.
- Any steps you’ve already taken to address the situation.
Our licensed plumbers will arrive promptly, equipped with the tools and expertise needed to fix the issue and restore your home’s plumbing system.
Plumbing emergencies can be stressful, but knowing what to do before the plumber arrives can help minimise damage and keep your home safe. By turning off the water supply, containing leaks, addressing minor clogs, and calling a professional plumber, you can prevent further issues and get your plumbing system back to normal as soon as possible.
If you’re facing a plumbing emergency in Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs, don’t hesitate to contact Plumbsave at 0499 044 839 or email info@plumbsave.com.au for fast and reliable service. We’re here to help 24/7!