What to Do During a Plumbing Emergency (Before Help Arrives)

07-24-2025

What to Do During a Plumbing Emergency (Before Help Arrives)

Plumbing Emergencies strike without warning—a burst pipe at 2 AM, a sewer backup during dinner, or a water heater leak flooding your garage. At Judd's Plumbing, we've helped thousands of Arizona homeowners through these crises, and we know those first critical minutes determine how much damage occurs. Follow this emergency action guide to protect your home until our technicians arrive.

Step 1: Shut Off the Water (Critical!)

For Single-Fixture Emergencies (Toilet/Sink Overflow):

• Locate the local shut-off valve (usually under sink/behind toilet)
• Turn clockwise until tight

For Whole-House Emergencies (Burst Pipes, Major Leaks):

1. Find your main water shut-off valve (typically):
   • Garage wall
   • Basement/crawlspace
   • Near water meter
2. Turn valve clockwise fully
3. Open a lower-level faucet to drain remaining water

Pro Tip: Label your main valve now so you can find it instantly in a crisis

Step 2: Stop Using Plumbing

• Don't flush toilets
• Avoid sinks/showers
• Turn off appliances using water (ice makers, washing machines)

Step 3: Contain the Damage

• Place buckets under leaks
• Use towels/rags to soak up standing water
• Move valuables away from affected areas

Step 4: Turn Off Water Heater (For Major Leaks)

1. Switch gas heaters to "pilot" mode
2. Flip electric heater breaker
   Why? Prevents tank damage from running dry

Step 5: Address Specific Emergencies

Burst Pipes:

• Wrap rubber/silicone tape around small cracks
• Apply pipe clamp for larger breaks (keep one in emergency kit)

Sewer Backups:

• Stop all water use immediately
• Avoid chemical drain cleaners (can worsen the situation)

Water Heater Leaks:

• Turn off water supply line to the tank
• Drain slightly via pressure relief valve

Step 6: Call Judd's Plumbing (623-304-5833)

When you call, be ready to describe:
✔ What failed (pipe, water heater, etc.)
✔ Actions you've taken (valves turned off?)
✔ Visible damage (water spread, electrical risks)

What NOT to Do

❌ Don't ignore small leaks (they grow fast)
❌ Avoid chemical drain cleaners in emergencies
❌ Don't attempt complex repairs without training
❌ Never touch wiring in wet areas

Prepare an Emergency Kit Now

Store these items in an accessible place:

• Adjustable wrench (for valve turning)
• Pipe tape/clamps
• Old towels/blankets
• Flashlight
• Judd's Plumbing contact info

Why Quick Action Matters

Response Time vs Potential Damage

• <5 minutes Minor cleanup needed
• 30 minutes Drywall/flooring damage
• 1+ hours Structural/electrical risks

24/7 Emergency Service You Can Trust

Judd's Plumbing responds faster than the industry average because we know:
✔ Every minute counts
✔ Arizona homes need local experts
✔ You deserve transparent pricing

Call Now for Immediate Help:
📞 623-304-5833
juddsplumbingaz.com

Remember: Stay calm, stop the water, then call Judd's—we'll handle the rest! Your quick thinking plus our expert response minimizes damage and gets life back to normal fast.

Serving Arizona homes and businesses with emergency plumbing solutions since 2022.