How to Handle Plumbing Emergencies

A plumbing emergency can happen when you least expect it. Knowing how to respond can prevent extensive damage and reduce stress. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a severe leak, or an overflowing drain, taking quick action can make all the difference. If you need help, LaCassa Plumbing is here to answer your call 24/7 and will schedule a visit as soon as possible to get things back on track.

How Do You Handle A Plumbing Emergency?

Burst Pipes

Immediate Response: Shut off your main water valve to stop the flow of water.
When a pipe bursts, stopping the water flow quickly is essential to minimize flooding and water damage. Locate your main shut-off valve, which is often near your water meter or where the main water line enters your home (typically in the basement, utility area, or along an exterior wall). Turn the valve clockwise to close it completely. Familiarize yourself with this valve in advance, so in an emergency, you won’t lose valuable time searching for it.  Make sure it is not stuck, and can be easily turned. 

Drain the System: Open faucets to let the remaining water flow out, relieving pressure from the pipes.
After turning off the main water supply, open the faucets connected to your plumbing system, starting with the ones at lower levels, like the kitchen or basement. This will allow any remaining water in the pipes to drain out, relieving pressure and reducing the risk of further leaks. Additionally, flushing toilets can help drain residual water from the system. Draining the system can prevent the burst from worsening while you wait for a professional to address the issue.

Temporary Fixes: Use pipe tape or a repair clamp to control the leak until a plumber arrives.
If you have pipe tape, repair clamps, or even heavy-duty duct tape, you can use these items to temporarily seal the burst pipe. Begin by drying the affected area to ensure the tape adheres well, then wrap the tape or secure the clamp tightly around the leak. While these temporary measures won’t solve the issue permanently, they can help reduce water leakage until a Westmont plumber arrives to make a full repair.

Severe Leaks

Quick Containment: Locate and turn off the shut-off valve nearest the leak to minimize water damage.
When you notice a significant leak, the first step is to locate the shut-off valve closest to the problem area. Most fixtures, such as sinks, toilets, and appliances, have individual shut-off valves, which are located underneath or behind the fixture. Turn this valve clockwise to stop the flow of water to the specific area, which can help contain the leak and reduce potential water damage. If the shut-off valve is difficult to access or fails to stop the flow, turn off your home’s main water valve as a backup.

Damage Control: Place a bucket under the leak and use towels or waterproof materials to contain water until professional help arrives.
To minimize water damage, place a bucket, bowl, or similar container under the leak to collect water. Additionally, use towels or waterproof materials, like plastic sheeting or even a tarp, to cover surrounding areas and prevent damage to floors, cabinetry, or furniture. Check the bucket periodically to empty it as needed to prevent overflow, and continue adding towels to control any excess moisture until a professional can assess the issue.

Preventing Further Issues: Avoid using the affected fixture or appliance until it’s been inspected and repaired.
Once you’ve contained the leak, avoid using the affected fixture or appliance to prevent worsening the issue or causing additional leaks. For example, if the leak is from a bathroom sink, avoid running water in that sink or using nearby fixtures that might share the same pipes. Refraining from use will help reduce strain on your plumbing system and give you the best chance of minimizing damage until a plumber can make a thorough repair.

Overflowing or Clogged Drains

Shut Off Water Sources: Stop any nearby appliances that may be feeding water into the clogged drain.
When dealing with a clogged or overflowing drain, your first step should be to stop any additional water from entering the drain. This means shutting off nearby appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, or other fixtures that may be connected to the same drainage line. This prevents excess water from aggravating the clog or causing further overflow, helping to contain the issue before it worsens.

Try Basic Methods: Use a plunger or a plumbing snake to clear the clog without chemicals that could damage your pipes.
Once water sources are turned off, try simple tools to clear the clog. A plunger is often effective for minor blockages; place it over the drain and apply firm, repeated plunges to dislodge the clog. If the clog persists, a plumbing snake (or drain auger) can reach deeper blockages. Carefully feed the snake into the drain until you encounter resistance, then twist and push gently to break up or extract the obstruction. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as these can corrode your pipes over time and may cause harm to certain types of plumbing materials.

When to Call for Help: For persistent clogs, reach out to LaCassa Plumbing for expert assistance. 

If plunging or snaking doesn’t clear the clog, or if you experience frequent blockages, it’s best to call in a professional. Persistent clogs can indicate deeper issues within your plumbing system, such as a blockage in the main drain line or pipe damage.

Water Heater Malfunctions

Turn Off Power and Water: Switch off the power to your water heater (whether gas or electric) and close the water inlet valve.
If your water heater is leaking or malfunctioning, begin by cutting off both the power and water supply to prevent further issues. For electric heaters, locate the breaker in your electrical panel and switch it off. For gas water heaters, turn the gas control valve to the “Off” position. Next, locate the water inlet valve on the top of the heater and turn it clockwise to shut off the water flow. This action will help prevent additional water from leaking and avoid any electrical hazards if the water makes contact with electrical components.

Minimize Water Damage: Place towels or containers to catch any leaks until help arrives.
After shutting off the power and water, inspect the area around the water heater and place towels, buckets, or other containers to catch any leaking water. This can help prevent water from seeping into flooring or adjacent areas, especially if the heater is in a finished part of the home. Keep an eye on the leak and change out containers as needed to avoid overflow while waiting for professional assistance.

Safety Precautions: Avoid attempting any major repairs yourself, as water heaters involve risks that are best handled by professionals.
Water heaters contain both electrical and gas components and often hold large quantities of hot water, making them potentially hazardous. Avoid attempting repairs yourself, as handling these systems without expertise can lead to injuries or further damage. 

How To Handle A Plumbing Emergency

How to prevent future plumbing emergencies preventive care can go a long way in avoiding emergencies. Regular plumbing inspections, checking your water pressure, and keeping an eye on older fixtures can help catch issues early.

Handling a plumbing emergency doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With LaCassa Plumbing, you can call us anytime, day or night, and we’ll work with you to schedule a prompt service visit. Contact LaCassa Plumbing now to safeguard your home and get your plumbing back on track!