Let’s be honest—plumbing emergencies are the worst. Whether it’s water spraying from a burst pipe or a toilet threatening to overflow like a volcano, these situations can quickly throw your day into chaos. But don’t panic! Knowing what to do while you wait for a professional plumber can make a huge difference.
Here’s a simple guide to help you stay calm, take action, and limit the damage until your Curran plumbers arrive.
What Counts as a Plumbing Emergency?
Not every plumbing hiccup is an emergency. A slow-draining sink? Annoying, but not critical.Â
However, some issues can’t wait:
- Burst Pipes: Water gushing everywhere is a problem that needs immediate attention.
- Overflowing Toilets: If flushing results in rising water that doesn’t go down, it’s go-time.
- Major Leaks: Whether under your sink or in your ceiling, water where it shouldn’t be is always bad news.
- Complete Blockages: A clogged sink or drain causing water to back up is definitely an issue.
If you’re facing one of these, it’s time to spring into action.
First Things First: Stop the Water
When disaster strikes, your first move is to stop the flow of water. Every home has a main water shut-off valve—usually near the water meter or outside in the yard. Turn it off, and you’ve instantly stopped the problem from getting worse.
For smaller issues like a leaking sink or toilet, there’s often a smaller valve near the fixture itself. Turning that off can save you from shutting off water to your whole house.
Grab a Plunger (or Whatever You Have)
For clogs, your plunger is your go-to. Whether it’s the toilet, sink, or shower, a few good plunges can often dislodge whatever’s causing the blockage.
A quick warning: Avoid dumping chemical drain cleaners into the problem. They might do more harm than good by damaging your pipes.
Got a Leak? Control the Flow
Leaks are tricky, but the goal is simple: stop or slow the water as much as you can. Grab buckets, towels, or even duct tape to control the flow. For bigger leaks, a pipe repair clamp comes in handy. These can help temporarily seal the pipe until a plumber gets there.
If the leak is near your water heater, turn off the power to the heater too. The last thing you want is boiling water adding to the mess.
Document the Damage
While you’re waiting for the plumber, take a few photos or videos of the problem area. This can be super helpful if you end up needing to file an insurance claim later. Plus, it gives the plumber a better idea of what they’re walking into when they arrive.
When to Call a Plumber
DIY fixes are great for buying yourself time, but most plumbing emergencies need professional help to get to the root of the problem. As soon as you’ve taken steps to control the situation, call a trusted plumber who can tackle the issue properly.
If you’re in the area, our team at Curran Plumbing is always ready to help—24/7. We’ve got the experience and tools to handle any emergency, big or small.
Tips to Avoid Future Plumbing Emergencies
Once the immediate crisis is handled, it’s a good idea to think about preventing future disasters.Â
Here’s what you can do:
- Keep Drains Clear: Invest in drain covers to catch hair, food scraps, and other debris before they cause a clog.
- Know Your Water Pressure: Too much pressure can stress pipes and lead to leaks over time.
- Schedule Regular Checkups: A quick inspection from a plumber every year or so can catch small issues before they turn into big problems.
Plumbing Emergency? No Stress!
Plumbing emergencies are stressful, but they don’t have to ruin your day. By staying calm, taking quick action, and knowing when to call for help, you can minimise the damage and get back to normal faster.
Need emergency plumbing services? The team at Curran Plumbing is just a phone call away. From burst pipes to blocked drains, we’ve got you covered.
Reach out now and let the pros take care of the rest.
