Step-by-Step: What to Do in a Plumbing Emergency

In a plumbing emergency, knowing how to react is crucial. This guide offers step-by-step solutions for burst pipes, clogged drains, and other urgent issues.

It’s the middle of the night and all of a sudden, you’re faced with a burst pipe, clogged drain, leaking roof, or any one of many plumbing emergencies. In most cases, this may even be your first time dealing with this specific issue or scenario. 

As one of Melbourne’s leading plumbing teams, we’ve seen almost every scenario you could imagine. So, what’s the best way to react? The answer depends on the type of emergency. However, there are some general rules to follow. 

In this article, we’ve compiled a step-to-step guide on what to do in a plumbing emergency. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown.

What are Some Common Plumbing Emergencies?

You might be wondering what classifies as a plumbing ‘emergency’. Let’s take a look at some situations that require emergency attention.

Let’s start with some non-negotiables that require immediate attention. Burst pipes, major leaks from roofs, ceilings, water heaters or washing machines, sewage backups, and gas leaks are all critical issues that demand immediate professional intervention to prevent extensive damage and health hazards.

While irritating, slow drains, minor leaks or running toilets aren’t necessarily cause for an immediate call to the plumber. Understanding the difference can save you from unnecessary stress and expenses.

However, if you’re ever in doubt, it’s always safer to consult with a professional. They can provide expert advice on the best course of action based on the severity of the situation.

Step 1: Immediate Assessment

The first way to deal with a plumbing emergency isn’t to panic, but rather assess the situation in the most calm manner possible. Starting by identifying the problem, then determine whether it’s something you can handle on your own or if you need to call a professional. 

For example, a simple clogged toilet can often be fixed with a plunger, but a major leak or burst pipe typically requires professional intervention. This is why it’s so important to take a moment to understand the severity of the issue before proceeding.If you feel like you’re way out of your depth, or the issue appears to be quite serious, contact an emergency plumber straight away. For property owners, this means engaging a professional directly, while for renters, you will need to contact the property manager or owner  to set the wheels in motion.

Step 2: General Emergency Steps

Because plumbing emergencies vary significantly, the way you react is also dependent on the specific situation. Here are some quick guidelines for some of the most common issues faced by Melbournians.

Water Emergencies

Turn Off the Water Supply: The most critical step in a plumbing emergency is to shut off the water supply to prevent further damage. Locate the main water valve in your home and turn it off. This valve is usually found near the water meter, either inside or outside your home. If the problem is isolated to a specific area, you may only need to shut off the valve for that area.

Drain Remaining Water: Once the water supply is turned off, you’ll need to drain any remaining water in the pipes. Open all the faucets in your home and flush the toilets to ensure all the water is drained out. This step helps prevent additional water from leaking into your home and causing more damage.

Contain the Damage: To minimise damage, use buckets, towels, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove any standing water. Place towels around the affected area to soak up excess water and prevent it from spreading to other parts of your home. This step is crucial in preventing further water damage and making the clean-up process easier.

Gas Emergencies

Turn Off the Gas Supply: If you suspect a gas leak or any other gas-related emergency, immediately turn off the gas supply at the main shut-off valve. This valve is typically located near the gas meter or where the gas line enters your home.

Ventilate the Area: Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate and ventilate the affected area. Avoid using any electrical appliances, switches, or flames as they could ignite gas.

Evacuate if Necessary: If the gas leak is significant or you detect a strong smell of gas, evacuate your home immediately. Contact emergency services and your gas provider from a safe location.

Structural Emergencies (e.g. Roof Leaks)

Contain the Leak: Place buckets or containers under the leak to catch water and prevent it from spreading and causing further damage to floors and furniture.

Protect Interior Surfaces: Use towels, rags, or plastic sheets to cover furniture and floors in the affected area to minimise water damage until repairs can be made.

Temporary Repairs: If safe to do so, apply a temporary patch such as tarpaulin or roofing cement to the leaky area on the roof. This can help mitigate further water ingress until professional repairs can be arranged.

Step 3: Call a Professional

Certain plumbing issues (particularly sudden emergencies), can only be assessed and resolved by a licensed plumber. Issues such as roof leaks, sewage backups, and extensive pipe damage should always be handled by a plumber with the necessary skills, experience, and equipment. 

Remember, attempting to fix these problems on your own can lead to more significant damage and costly repairs. Here are four key benefits of calling in the pros!

Licensed Expertise: Licensed plumbers have the training, experience, and legal certification necessary to handle complex plumbing emergencies safely and effectively. They adhere to industry standards and regulations, ensuring repairs are done correctly to prevent future issues.

Avoiding Further Damage: Attempting to fix major plumbing problems without proper knowledge and tools can exacerbate the issue, leading to more extensive damage and higher repair costs. Professional plumbers have the skills to assess the situation accurately and implement appropriate solutions.

Long-Term Solutions: Professional plumbers not only address the immediate emergency but also provide long-term solutions to prevent recurrence. They can identify underlying issues that may have contributed to the emergency, such as deteriorating pipes or faulty installations.

Emergency Services: Many reputable plumbing companies offer 24/7 emergency services. This means you can contact them anytime, day or night, for urgent plumbing issues that require immediate attention. Having access to a 24/7 emergency plumber ensures that help is available whenever a crisis arises, minimising downtime and damage to your home.

Whether you need an emergency plumber in Balaclava, Beaconsfield or Bundoora, we respond to all of your plumbing emergencies–24-hours a day, 7 days a week! Call us before 10:30 AM for same day services across Melbourne.

Step 4: Prevention Tips

Taking preventative measures can help you avoid many common plumbing emergencies. Here are some tips to keep your plumbing system in good working order:

Insulate Pipes: Insulating your pipes can prevent them from freezing and bursting during colder months. 

Avoid Flushing Non-Biodegradable Items: Items such as wet wipes, sanitary products, and paper towels should never be flushed down the toilet, as they can cause blockages. 

Schedule Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your plumbing system for any signs of wear and tear. Addressing small issues early can prevent them from becoming major problems. This is just as important for homeowners as it is for businesses.

It’s Better to Be Safe Than Sorry

Remember, if you’re in doubt, it’s always best to call a professional plumber. This will not only help to resolve the issue in the short term, but also prevent further damage to the property itself.

While there will be costs involved, they ultimately pale in comparison to the hefty bills associated with more extensive repairs down the line. 

Save this guide and our contact information for future reference and make sure you’re prepared for any plumbing emergency that may arise.

MCN: Reliable Emergency Plumbers in Melbourne

If you’re looking for a dependable emergency plumber in Melbourne, turn to the team at MCN Plumbing. Specialising in a wide range of plumbing services, we can assist you with toilet repairs, tap repairs, leaking pipes, blocked drains Melbourne, hot water repairs, and gas fitting. Based in Melbourne and backed by more than 30 years of experience, we use the best equipment and techniques to provide the right solutions for you.

You can reach us on 0420 102 198 anytime! Whether you’re dealing with a lack of hot water in Coburg or blocked drains in Bentleigh, we’ll respond quickly and provide upfront pricing for complete peace of mind. So, keep the MCN number ready and contact us as soon as you experience any type of plumbing emergency.