A plumbing emergency can strike at the worst possible times—burst pipes in the middle of the night, overflowing toilets right before guests arrive, or mysterious leaks with no clear source. When every second counts, knowing what to do can minimize damage and stress.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you take control when a plumbing disaster hits your home.
1. Shut Off the Water Immediately
The very first step in any plumbing emergency is to stop the flow of water. Find the shut-off valve nearest the problem area—under sinks, behind toilets, or near appliances. If you can’t locate it or the issue is widespread, turn off your home’s main water supply.
💡 Tip: Make sure every household member knows where the main shut-off valve is and how to use it.
2. Turn Off the Water Heater (If Necessary)
If the issue involves hot water (like a burst hot water pipe), turn off your water heater to prevent damage or pressure buildup. For electric heaters, switch off the breaker. For gas models, turn the gas supply off first.
3. Address Small Leaks with Temporary Fixes
Use buckets to catch dripping water, wrap leaking pipes with towels, or apply plumber’s tape as a temporary fix. These quick actions won’t solve the problem permanently, but they can reduce water damage while you wait for professional help.
4. Avoid Using Plumbing Fixtures
During an emergency, stop using sinks, showers, dishwashers, and toilets to prevent making the situation worse. Blocked drains, for example, can back up if more water is added to the system.
5. Contact a Licensed Plumber Right Away
This is where Wynnow comes in. Our team of licensed and insured plumbing professionals are available for emergency calls and will assess and resolve the issue quickly. We’ll not only fix the problem but help prevent future ones.
6. Document Any Damage for Insurance
Take photos of the damage caused by the plumbing issue. If you need to file a homeowner’s insurance claim, having clear documentation will help the process go more smoothly.
7. Clean Up Water ASAP
Standing water can cause mold, mildew, and structural damage. As soon as it’s safe, begin drying the area using towels, mops, fans, and dehumidifiers.
Prevent Future Plumbing Emergencies
Regular maintenance and inspections from trusted professionals like Wynnow can catch small issues before they become disasters. Preventative service is often the key to avoiding emergency repairs altogether.
Plumbing emergencies are never fun, but being prepared can keep a bad situation from becoming catastrophic. If you’re facing one now—or want to prevent one in the future—Wynnow is just a call away. If you found this blog helpful, be sure to check us out on Facebook, Instagram and X for more!