7 Plumbing Emergencies You Must Handle Like a Pro

It’s a quiet evening at home, and then… disaster strikes. You turn the corner to find water pooling on your floors, or you hear that unmistakable gurgling noise from the drain. 

Plumbing emergencies seem to appear out of nowhere, but knowing how to react can make the difference between a quick fix and a full-blown disaster.

In this article, we walk you through the 7 most common plumbing emergencies and the essential first steps to mitigate damage until professional help arrives. 

Keep reading to make sure you're always prepared when plumbing disasters hit.

Burst Pipes: The Unwanted Indoor Pool

Burst pipes are among the most terrifying plumbing emergencies. Whether it's due to freezing temperatures or simply old, weakened pipes, a burst can lead to serious water damage in a matter of minutes.

What to Do When a Pipe Bursts

• Shut off the main water supply immediately to stop the water from flowing.
  
  
• Turn off the electricity if the burst is near electrical outlets to prevent electrical hazards.
  
  
• Use buckets or towels to contain the water until the plumber arrives.
  
  

Tip: Call a trusted plumber immediately, as the longer you wait, the more extensive the damage can become.

Blocked Toilets: The Loo’s Revenge

Blocked toilets are a classic plumbing emergency, often caused by excessive toilet paper or items that shouldn't be flushed (like wipes, which claim to be flushable). If your toilet is overflowing, it's time to act.

How to Handle a Blocked Toilet

• Turn off the water supply valve to prevent further flooding.
  
  
• Use a plunger to attempt to clear the blockage.
  
  
• Avoid flushing again, as this may worsen the situation.
  
  

If the problem persists, call an emergency plumber to prevent a major flood.

Drain Blocks: When the Water Just Won’t Drain

Drain blocks can happen in sinks, showers, or bathtubs, often due to accumulated hair, grease, or small objects. When water refuses to drain, it’s a clear sign that a block has taken hold.

Dealing with Drain Blocks in Your Bathroom and Kitchen

• Try using a plunger or a drain snake to dislodge the block.
  
  
• For kitchen sinks blocked with grease, use hot water mixed with dish soap to break down the grease.
  
  
• If these methods don’t work, it’s time to call a plumber to safely and efficiently clear the drain.
  
  

Tip: Use a drain guard in sinks and showers to prevent hair and debris from blocking pipes in the future.

Leaky Faucets and Fixtures: The Never-Ending Drip

A leaky faucet might seem like a minor inconvenience, but over time, it can lead to significant water wastage and an increased water bill. Most often, a worn-out washer or O-ring is to blame.

How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

• Tighten the fittings or replace the washer if you’re confident in your DIY skills.
  
  
• If the leak persists or you’re unsure how to fix it, call a plumber to make the necessary repairs.
  
  

Tip: Don’t let the drip-drip chorus keep you up at night—get it fixed before it turns into a larger issue!

No Hot Water: An Unwelcome Chill

Nothing ruins your morning routine faster than a cold shower due to no hot water. The problem could be related to your water heater, which may have malfunctioned due to age, a power issue, or a faulty thermostat.

What to Check If You Have No Hot Water

• Check the pilot light on gas water heaters or the circuit breaker for electric ones to see if they’ve been tripped.
  
  
• If the issue persists, call a professional plumber or HVAC technician to troubleshoot and fix the issue.
  
  

Tip: Regularly maintain your water heater to avoid sudden breakdowns.

Sewer System Backup: More Than Just a Bad Smell

A sewer system backup can be one of the most unpleasant plumbing emergencies. It often shows up as a gurgling sound from your toilet or drain and is usually accompanied by foul smells.

Handling Sewer System Backup: What to Do First

• Stop using water in your home immediately.
  
  
• Call a professional plumber to clear the blockage and repair the system.
  
  

Warning: Sewer backups are a health risk, so it’s crucial to address them as soon as possible to avoid contamination.

Frozen Pipes: The Cold Weather Culprit

When temperatures drop below freezing, pipes are at risk of freezing, especially those in unheated areas like basements and attics. Frozen pipes can crack and burst, causing significant water damage.

Preventing and Dealing with Frozen Pipes

• Shut off the water supply to prevent water from entering the pipes.
  
  
• Gently warm the pipes with a hairdryer or space heater to help thaw them.
  
  
• If the pipes have already cracked, call a plumber for immediate repairs.
  
  

Tip: In winter, insulate your pipes and open cabinet doors to allow warm air circulation to prevent freezing.

Dealing with a Plumbing Emergency that’s Beyond Your Toolkit?

Plumbing emergencies are stressful, especially if you don’t have the tools or expertise to fix them yourself. When faced with a plumbing disaster, the best course of action is to contact a professional plumber immediately.

Why You Need Professional Help

• Fast response time: Plumbers can quickly assess the situation and take action to minimize damage.
  
  
• Expert repairs: Plumbing issues often require advanced tools and knowledge. A plumber can fix the problem correctly the first time, saving you time and money.
  
  
• Peace of mind: Knowing that a licensed professional is on the job helps alleviate stress during a crisis.

Why Sewer Surgeon Is Your Go-To for Plumbing Emergencies

At Sewer Surgeon, we understand that plumbing emergencies can happen at the worst possible time. That's why we’re available 24/7 to provide reliable plumbing services across Sydney. 

Whether it's a burst pipe, blocked toilet, or sewer backup, our team is ready to tackle any emergency with speed and efficiency.

Call 1300 734 677 for immediate help with your plumbing emergency. Our experienced professionals will ensure that your plumbing systems are fixed right, the first time, and prevent any further damage to your home.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should we do if a pipe bursts at night?

First, turn off the main water supply to stop further flooding. Then, call an emergency plumber immediately to prevent water damage.

2. What happens if a hot water pipe bursts in the middle of the night?

If a hot water pipe bursts at night, you risk flooding and water damage. Quickly turn off the main water supply and contact an emergency plumber for repair.

3. What things should you know and do after your home is flooded by a burst pipe?

Turn off the water supply, clean up the water, and call a plumber for immediate repairs. Document the damage for insurance and consider calling a water damage restoration specialist.

4. How can I prevent plumbing emergencies in the future?

Regularly maintain your plumbing system, check for leaks, insulate pipes during the winter, and be mindful of what you flush or pour down your drains.

5. Why is it important to call a professional plumber during an emergency?

Professional plumbers have the expertise and tools to handle emergencies quickly, reducing the risk of long-term damage and ensuring repairs are done correctly.

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