Plumbing emergencies don’t adhere to a schedule, a budget, or your sanity—they just happen! That being said, not every leak or clog needs an emergency sewer service (and who wants to pay for an emergency plumber on a Tuesday at 2 am?!), but at least some plumbing situations require immediate attention.
Contrary to popular belief, understanding what constitutes a plumbing emergency is not common knowledge or common sense. Knowing what qualifies as a plumbing emergency can help you save time, money, and possibly your home, so let’s break it down.
Causes of Plumbing Emergencies
Plumbing emergencies fall into three main categories: water-related emergencies, drainage and sewage emergencies, and gas-related emergencies.
Water-Related Emergencies
When you think of a plumbing emergency, you probably think about burst pipes. A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water in a matter of minutes, causing massive flooding and structural damage. Burst pipes are common in winter when freezing temperatures can cause water in poorly insulated pipes to freeze, expand, and eventually crack the pipe.
You may shrug off leaky pipes, but don’t underestimate the problem they can create. A small leak could ultimately worsen and cause water stains, mold, or a ceiling collapse as water pools into your ceiling cavity. Pooling water in places it doesn’t belong, like under a sink or along a baseboard, is always a cause for concern.
Hot water tank disasters can add to the chaos of a plumbing emergency. A cold shower is inconvenient, but a malfunctioning water heater can cause significant issues. It can leak, flood your home, or, if gas-powered, even create dangerous gas-related hazards. If your water heater is leaking or if you hear unusual noises, take it seriously and have it checked out.
AN IMPORTANT NOTE: In many cases, what seems like a plumbing emergency, truly is not. Many so-called leaking pipe emergencies can be eliminated by locating and closing the local valve for that section of pipe. Understanding where these valves are located and labeling them ahead of time saves you from damage, distress, and the need for an emergency plumbing service call.
Drainage and Sewage Emergencies
Clogged drains are annoying, but often not a disaster. A slow-draining sink is a lot different than a backed-up main sewer line. If you have water simultaneously backing up into your sinks, showers, or toilets, you definitely have a blockage in your main sewer line or house drain, and that is an emergency.
Tree roots are naturally attracted to the moisture in sewer pipes. Once they invade, they can cause severe blockages or even break the pipes entirely.
An overflowing toilet can be an emergency. If you only have one bathroom, it can become a health issue very quickly. Note again that all toilets have their own shut-off valve at the base of the toilet. Simply close the valve, stop the water. Frequently, you have a common clog you can clear with a plunger. If you’re even luckier, jiggle the toilet handle and the water will stop running.
AN IMPORTANT NOTE: Any time you have sewage backing up, stop using wastewater throughout the house. Secondly, call 311 and have the authorities verify that it is not a public sewer backup.
Gas-Related Emergencies
Gas leaks are extremely dangerous and should never be ignored. Never ever ignore the smell of gas. If you smell something like rotten eggs, there may be a gas leak. Natural gas is odorless, but gas companies add a chemical called mercaptan, which gives it a sulfur-like smell to help detect leaks.
In addition to a gas smell, there are other signs that there may be a gas issue. If your stove burner is burning orange instead of blue, it could indicate improper ventilation, insufficient air supply, or even a dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. Some orange flames can occur temporarily due to dust or debris in the burner—this isn’t always a serious issue unless it persists. Gas leaks and improper combustion of gas can be deadly, so if you smell gas or see orange flames instead of blue – Call a trained professional.
AN IMPORTANT NOTE: Turn off all kitchen gas appliances (maybe there’s a stove with a pilot light that is out) and leave the house immediately. It is not advisable to ever go into a basement to investigate a gas leak – that is a job for a professional.
How to Recognize a Plumbing Emergency
Some plumbing emergencies are obvious, like when your living room suddenly is filled with water. Others, however, are more subtle. Here are a few signs to watch for:
Signs You Can See
- Water stains on a wall or ceiling can be the sign of a hidden leak. If you see them, it could be that water has been leaking inside your house for a while.
- A sagging ceiling is another big red flag. If it is sagging, there is probably enough water so that it is likely to collapse.
- Puddles of water around pipes, the mess could be under a sink, or maybe under a washing machine, suggesting that there is leaking or possibly a burst pipe.
Signs You Can Hear
- Hissing, bubbling, or gurgling sounds in your pipes may indicate blockages or trapped air in the system.
- Grinding or clanking noises, often referred to as “water hammer”, usually indicate loose pipes or high water pressure, which can result in damage if not fixed.
Signs You Can Smell
- A rotten egg smell in your home usually indicates a gas leak.
- Musty and moldy smells signal hidden water damage or mildew, which could become more dangerous the longer it goes unnoticed.
- Discolored or foul-smelling water could be the result of pipe corrosion or a leak contaminating the water.
Which Plumbing Problems Demand Immediate Attention?
Not every plumbing issue is an emergency, but some plumbing problems need to be dealt with right away, or you could be facing serious consequences.
Risk of Property Damage
Water is destructive. A broken pipe or a leaking pipe can cause flooding in a matter of minutes, damaging the walls, floor, furniture, and potentially even the foundation of the home. The longer you wait, the more there is to damage–and the more money you will pay to fix the damage.
Sewage backups are more dangerous. Not only will they potentially damage property, there are harmful bacteria and viruses in raw sewage that could impact your health.
Health Risks
Mold and mildew are common byproducts of water damage. They are ugly, but they can cause asthma, breathing issues, or allergic reactions for both children and adults–especially those that may have a compromised immune system.
Gas leaks are especially dangerous. Prolonged exposure to natural gas can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness or even death
Financial Consequences
You might think delaying plumbing repairs will save you money, but the total cost of delaying repairs is usually much higher! The costs of structural repairs, mold remediation, and increased utility bills can add up quickly. Dealing with a problem early can save you a significant amount of money – and stress!
Common Plumbing Emergencies
Here are some situations that absolutely warrant calling an emergency plumber:
Burst Pipes or Leaking Plumbing
A burst pipe is a disaster waiting to happen. Shut off your water supply immediately and call a plumber. Even small leaks or visible signs of corrosion should be addressed quickly to prevent them from worsening.
Clogged or Backed-Up Drains
If multiple drains are clogged at the same time, it’s likely a sewer line issue that requires immediate attention.
Overflowing Toilets
An overflowing toilet is not only unpleasant but also a health hazard. If plunging doesn’t resolve the issue, call a plumber. But always shut off the dedicated valve for that toilet. Every toilet has one.
Gas Leaks
If you suspect a gas leak, turn off the gas supply, open your windows, and leave the house immediately before calling a plumber or your gas company.
What to Do in a Plumbing Emergency
Facing a plumbing emergency can be overwhelming, but staying calm and taking the right steps can limit the damage.
Steps to Take
- Shut off the main water supply to stop flooding.
- For gas leaks, turn off the gas valve, open windows, and leave your home.
- Use towels or buckets to contain smaller leaks while waiting for a professional.
- Avoid attempting major DIY repairs, as they can make the problem worse.
Preventing Plumbing Emergencies
The best way to handle a plumbing emergency is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Regular maintenance is key.
Regular Maintenance
Inspect your pipes monthly for signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage. Clean your drains regularly to prevent blockages, and check your water pressure to ensure it stays within a safe range.
The Importance of Professional Maintenance
Schedule an annual plumbing inspection with a licensed professional. They can catch hidden issues—like leaks behind walls or early signs of corrosion—before they turn into emergencies.
When It’s Not a Plumbing Emergency
Not all plumbing problems require immediate attention.
Small Issues That Can Wait
- Dripping faucets
- Slow-draining sinks
- Minor leaks under the sink
Be Prepared for Plumbing Emergencies
Plumbing emergencies are stressful, but knowing how to handle them and when to call for help can save you time, money, and frustration. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s always better to call a professional than risk the problem escalating. A little preparation and regular maintenance can go a long way in protecting your home and your peace of mind.
