Emergency Plumbing Guide: What to Do Before Help Arrives

When water starts pouring from your ceiling or you smell gas in your kitchen, your heart pounds. You’re not alone. Every homeowner faces a plumbing emergency at some point, and knowing what to do before help arrives can make all the difference.

At Aaton Plumbing, we see it every day—burst pipes after a winter freeze, overflowing toilets during storms, or that unmistakable hiss and odor from a gas leak. Fast action protects your home, your family, and your peace of mind until emergency plumbing professionals arrive.

Assessing the Situation Safely 🛑

Before you dive in, take a breath. Your safety comes first. Let’s size up the scene just like a firefighter would before entering a smoky room.

• Pause and Observe: Is water gushing? Is there a strange smell, like rotten eggs (a sign of a gas leak)? Listen for hissing, dripping, or the groan of pipes.
• Check for Hazards: Wet floors mean a risk of slipping or electric shock. If water is near outlets or appliances, keep your distance.
• Smell Gas? Stop. Evacuate everyone, including pets, and get outside. Natural gas leaks are dangerous—don’t use lights, phones, or anything that sparks inside the house.

Real-World Example

Maria from down the street called us last winter. Her pipes froze and burst during a cold snap. Water was pooling in her basement, but she stayed calm, shut off the main valve, and waited safely until our crew arrived. Her quick thinking saved thousands in damage.

Immediate Actions to Prevent Damage

Once you know it’s safe, move quickly but calmly. Imagine you’re racing the clock, but you’ve got the instructions in your hand.

• Turn Off Water: Find the main shutoff valve—usually in the basement, crawl space, or near the street. Turn it clockwise.
• Contain Leaks: Place buckets, towels, or even baking trays under drips. Open cabinets to help pipes dry out.
• Shut Off Power (if needed): For major leaks near outlets, flip the breaker to that room if you can do so safely.
• Stop the Spread: Close doors to affected rooms. Move valuables, rugs, and electronics out of harm’s way.

Quick Safety Checklist

• [ ] Everyone out if you suspect gas
• [ ] Main water valve off
• [ ] Electricity off (if water is near wires)
• [ ] Remove items from wet areas
• [ ] Call emergency plumbing help

Turning Off Water and Gas

Knowing how to turn off your utilities is like having the keys to your castle. Practice now—don’t wait for an emergency!

How to Shut Off Water

• Locate the main shutoff: round wheel or lever near where water enters your home.
• Turn clockwise (righty-tighty) until it stops.
• Open a faucet to release pressure and drain remaining water.

How to Shut Off Gas

• The main gas shutoff valve is usually outside—look for a pipe with a lever handle.
• Use a wrench to turn the valve one quarter-turn so it’s perpendicular to the pipe.
• Only shut off gas if you smell it or hear hissing. If you do, leave the house and call emergency services from outside.

Reference: The American Red Cross recommends knowing these shutoff points as part of standard home safety.

When to Call for Professional Help ☎️

Some plumbing problems are like a loose button—you can handle them. Others are more like a live wire. Here’s how to tell:

• Call Aaton Plumbing immediately for:

  • Burst pipes
  • Sewage backups
  • Gas leaks
  • No hot water in winter (risk of freezing)
  • Sump pump failure during storms

• DIY for:

  • Minor clogs (try a plunger)
  • Dripping faucet (tighten handle)
  • Slow drains (use a drain snake)

If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution. Emergency plumbing issues can escalate fast.

What Emergency Plumbers Do On Arrival

When our team arrives, we don’t just fix pipes—we assess the damage, ensure safety, and get your home back on track.

• Inspection: We check the source of the problem and test for hidden leaks or gas.
• Mitigation: Water extraction, temporary pipe patches, and stopping further damage.
• Repairs: From pipe replacement to Gas Line Installation near you, we tackle the root issue.
• Safety Checks: We follow state plumbing codes and gas safety protocols to keep your home safe.

Prevention & Maintenance Tips

A little care goes a long way. Just like you wouldn’t drive your car without oil, don’t ignore your pipes.

• Insulate Pipes: Especially in crawl spaces and attics to prevent freezes.
• Annual Inspections: Schedule regular checks for leaks, corrosion, and water pressure.
• Clean Drains: Avoid pouring grease or coffee grounds down the sink.
• Test Your Sump Pump: Pour water into the pit to see if it kicks on.
• Know Your Shutoffs: Teach everyone in your home where the valves are.

Authoritative Tip: The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors advises annual plumbing and gas safety checks.

Costs & Time Factors

Emergency plumbing isn’t just about fixing pipes—it’s about acting fast to limit damage. Here’s what to expect:

• Response Time: Most emergency plumbing teams aim for arrival within 1–2 hours, but weather and demand can affect this.
• Cost Factors: Severity of the issue, time of day, parts needed, and time spent on repairs.
• Range: Small leaks may be fixed quickly, while sewer or gas issues take longer and may require permits.

Remember, the sooner you call, the less damage (and cost) you’ll face.

When It’s an Emergency 🚨

Not every drip is a disaster, but some signs mean you need help—now.

It’s an emergency if:

• Water is pouring uncontrollably
• You smell gas or hear hissing
• Sewage is backing up into sinks or tubs
• Multiple fixtures are clogged at once
• There’s no water in winter (risk of freezing pipes)

If in doubt, treat it as urgent. Your safety and your home’s integrity are at stake.

FAQ: Emergency Plumbing

Q: What should I do if my toilet overflows?
A: Quickly turn off the water valve behind the toilet (usually a small knob). Use towels to soak up water. Avoid flushing again until a plumber inspects the blockage.

Q: Do I need to evacuate for a gas leak?
A: Yes. Leave immediately. Don’t use electrical switches or phones inside. Call emergency services and your gas provider from outside.

Q: Can I fix a burst pipe myself?
A: You can temporarily stop leaks with a pipe clamp or heavy tape, but a professional should repair or replace the pipe as soon as possible.

Q: How can I prevent future emergencies?
A: Regular maintenance, knowing your shutoffs, and insulating pipes in winter are key steps.

Local and Seasonal Considerations

Living here means facing unique risks—icy winters, heavy rains, even the occasional tremor.

• Winter Freezes: Insulate exposed pipes and disconnect outdoor hoses before the first frost.
• Storms: Clear your gutters and make sure your sump pump is working.
• Earthquakes: Strap water heaters and know how to turn off gas lines quickly.

Aaton Plumbing is always ready, but a little preparation makes all the difference.

If you’re facing a plumbing emergency right now, don’t wait. Call Aaton Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  877-362-1997 . Your home deserves fast, professional care.