Plumbing emergencies often happen when you least expect them. From burst pipes and blocked toilets to boiler problems, these situations can be stressful and costly if not handled promptly or correctly. Whilst calling for an emergency plumber should be your top priority, there are also a few important steps you can take to reduce further damage and keep your home safe as you wait for help to arrive.
1. Turn Off Water Supply
The best immediate action you can take during a plumbing emergency is to switch off the water supply. Find your home’s stopcock (typically under the kitchen sink or near where water enters the property) and turn it to shut off the mains water.
If you can spot that the issue is isolated, such as to a specific appliance like a washing machine or toilet, you can turn off the local valve instead.
By acting quickly, you can majorly reduce the risk of flooding and water damage before the emergency plumber gets to you.
2. Switch Off Electricity if Necessary
If you spot water leaking near outlets or electrical appliances, safety comes first. Only if safe to do so, switch off the electricity at the mains. Never touch electrical equipment while standing in water and avoid using appliances in the affected areas.
3. Drain the System
Once you have shut off the water supply, open all cold taps to drain any excess water from the pipe work. Flushing toilets and turning on cold taps can also help to relieve system pressure and will help to limit further leaks, particularly if the job surrounds burst or cracked pipes or if there is another undetected issue that could be causing the problem.
4. Contain the Leak
Temporary fixes won’t compare to professional repairs however they are great for helping manage the situation. Use towels and containers/buckets to catch leaking water and prevent it from spread anywhere else. If you can identify the source of the leak, wrap it with tape or apply a cloth to it to slow the water flow until the emergency plumber arrives.
5. Avoid DIY Repairs
It can be tempting to jump in and attempt to fix the issue yourself when things go wrong. But, without the right tools or expertise, DIY repairs can often end up making plumbing emergencies worse. It’s always best to leave permanent repairs to the qualified professionals who can carry out the work safely and resolve the issue properly. The best course of action is to follow the above steps to reduce damage whilst you await help.
6. Find an Emergency Plumber You Can Trust
Once you have the immediate damage under control, it’s time to find an emergency plumber.
Look for professionals who are available 24/7, clearly list their services and have verified previews from previous customers. TrustATrader makes it easier than ever to find an emergency plumber who is reliable and properly vetted.
Plumbing emergencies are never convenient, but knowing what to do when the time comes can make all the difference. Make sure to act quickly and prioritise safety. Call a trusted emergency plumber and protect your home.