Plumbing emergencies always seem to happen at the worst possible times—late at night, during a holiday dinner, or right before guests arrive. But don’t panic! You’ve got this. With a few quick actions, you can minimize the damage while waiting for your trusted plumber to arrive. Here's what you need to know when faced with an emergency plumbing situation.

1. Shut Off the Water Supply Immediately

The first rule of emergency plumbing is to stop the water from flowing. Water can cause significant damage in no time, so locating the main shut-off valve is crucial. If you don’t know where it is, now’s a great time to find out. Typically, you’ll find it in the basement, near the water heater, or outside along the foundation. Once you turn it off, breathe a little easier—you’ve just taken the most important step.

For smaller issues, like a leaking toilet or faucet, shut off the local valve instead. You’ll find it under the sink or behind the toilet. This quick move can save you a massive cleanup later.

2. Control the Mess

You don’t want water pooling everywhere, right? Grab towels, mops, or even a bucket to catch dripping water. For larger leaks, try to contain the flow by redirecting it toward a floor drain or outside. If the leak is near electrical outlets, be extra cautious. Avoid standing in water and, if necessary, turn off the electricity in the affected area.

Got a clogged drain? Avoid using harsh chemicals like drain cleaners; they could worsen the situation. Instead, try a plunger or a plumber’s snake. You’d be surprised how much a little elbow grease can help.

3. Check for Visible Damage

While you’re waiting for the plumber, take a closer look at the issue. Is there a burst pipe, or is it just a loose connection? If you can spot the problem, you might be able to apply a temporary fix. For instance, a small crack in a pipe can often be sealed temporarily with duct tape or a pipe clamp. It’s not a long-term solution, but it’ll hold things together until help arrives.

If you’re dealing with a frozen pipe, gently warm it up using a hair dryer or towels soaked in warm water. Don’t ever use an open flame—it’s dangerous and could damage the pipe further.

4. Drain the Pipes

After shutting off the water supply, you’ll want to drain the pipes to prevent any remaining water from causing more issues. Open all the faucets in your home, starting with the lowest point (like a basement sink) and working your way up. Don’t forget to flush the toilets, too! This will help clear out any water still sitting in the system.

Draining the pipes can also reduce pressure, which might prevent further leaks or bursts. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference.

5. Communicate with Your Plumber

Once you’ve done what you can, it’s time to call in the professional plumbers. When contacting a plumber, be as specific as possible about the problem. Let them know if a pipe burst, a toilet overflowed, or your water heater started leaking. The more details you provide, the better prepared they’ll be to resolve the issue quickly.

Pro tip: Take a few photos of the problem area and send them to your plumber. Visuals can help them assess the situation and bring the right tools or parts.

6. Be Prepared for the Next Time

Nobody likes to think about future emergencies, but trust us—being prepared is half the battle. Keep a basic plumbing kit on hand, including essentials like a plunger, plumber’s tape, and pipe clamps. Know where your shut-off valves are, and make sure everyone in your household knows, too.

Regular maintenance is also key. Check for leaks under sinks, inspect hoses connected to your appliances, and clean out your drains regularly. A little effort now can save you from a massive headache later.

Trust Sheehan Connection LLC for Your Emergency Plumbing Needs

Even with the best preparation, some plumbing emergencies are simply too big to handle alone. That’s where Sheehan Connection LLC comes in. With over 30 years of experience serving Camden County and the entire South Jersey, their team is ready to tackle any plumbing issue, day or night. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a clogged drain, or a water heater problem, they’ve got you covered.

Don’t wait—call Sheehan Connection LLC at (856) 627-4495 for reliable emergency plumbing services. You can also reach out online through their contact page.

Let the professionals handle the tough stuff while you sit back and relax.