Most Common Plumbing Emergencies & What You Should Do First

Plumbing problems can happen at any time, day or night. They often show up without warning and can quickly turn into big issues if not handled properly. A leaking pipe, a blocked toilet, or no hot water can leave you feeling stressed. But don't worry! When you know what to do first, you can stop more damage and stay in control until a plumber arrives. In this blog, we will talk about the most common plumbing emergencies people face in Australia and the first things you should do when they happen.

Burst Pipes

A burst pipe is one of the worst plumbing problems. It usually happens when pipes get too old, freeze in winter, or have too much water pressure inside. When a pipe bursts, water can pour out very fast and damage your floors, walls, and even furniture.

What should you do first?

• Turn off the main water supply. This is the most important step. Find the water meter (usually outside or near the front of your house) and turn the valve off.

• Switch off the power if needed. If the water is near power points or wires, turn off the electricity at the main switch.

• Call an Emergency Plumber right away. This kind of problem needs urgent attention. Don't try to fix it yourself.

Blocked Toilet

A blocked toilet can be smelly, messy, and very uncomfortable. It can happen if too much toilet paper or foreign objects are flushed.

What should you do first?

• Don't flush again. This will only make the water rise and possibly overflow.

• Try a plunger. Gently plunge to loosen the blockage. Don't use too much force.

• Put towels or newspapers around the toilet. This helps to soak up any water in case it spills over.

• Call a plumber if you can't clear the blockage. It may be a deeper problem in the pipes.

Leaking Taps or Pipes

Leaking taps or small pipe leaks may seem minor, but over time, they can waste a lot of water and cause mould, stains, or even floor damage.

What should you do first?

• Turn off the water supply under the sink or near the pipe.

• Use a bucket or towel to catch the dripping water.

• Call a plumber to fix it properly. It might need a new washer or part.

No Hot Water

Not having hot water can make daily tasks like showering or washing dishes difficult, especially in winter. It could be a broken hot water system or a power/gas problem.

What should you do first?

• Check if the system is turned on. Sometimes it's just a switch or pilot light that's gone off.

• Look for any signs of leaks or strange sounds. These could mean something's wrong.

• Don't try to fix it yourself. Hot water systems can be dangerous.

• Call a licensed plumber to inspect it safely.

Gas Leaks

If you smell gas in or around your home, it could mean a gas leak. This is very dangerous and can lead to fire or health problems.

What should you do first?

• Turn off the gas at the main valve. It's usually near the gas meter.

• Open all windows and doors to let fresh air in.

• Don't use switches or flames. A small spark could start a fire.

• Get out of the house and call an emergency plumber or the gas company.

Sewer Backup

If dirty water or waste starts coming back up in your toilet or drains, it's a sewer backup. It can smell very bad and is unsafe to touch.

What should you do first?

• Don't use any more water in the house. No flushing, dishwashing, or laundry.

• Stay away from the affected areas. Sewage can carry germs.

• Call an emergency plumber. This is not a DIY job.

No Water Flow

If there's no water coming out of your taps, it could be a broken pipe, a blockage, or a problem with the water supply.

What should you do first?

• Check with your neighbours. Are they also having the same issue?

• Look around your property for signs of leaks or damage.

• Call your water provider. If they say it's not their issue, call a plumber to check your pipes.

Extra Tips: What Not to Do

• Don't panic. It's easier to fix the problem when you stay calm.

• Don't use harsh chemicals. They can harm your pipes or the environment.

• Don't wait too long. Small problems can turn into big ones very fast.

Conclusion

Plumbing emergencies can be overwhelming, but knowing what to do first can help you stay calm and prevent the situation from escalating. The most important thing to remember is safety. If you're dealing with a plumbing emergency, always start by shutting off the water supply. This will help prevent further damage to your property. Keep a safe distance from any electrical hazards and avoid using appliances or outlets in the affected area, as water and electricity can be a dangerous combination.

Next, call a licensed plumbing professional immediately. Even if the problem seems minor, it’s always better to have an expert assess the situation to ensure it's properly fixed. When you need fast, reliable plumbing services, Essendon Plumbing Services is here to help. Serving families across Australia, Essendon Plumbing Services offers quick, friendly, and expert support for all types of plumbing emergencies—whether it’s a burst pipe, a blocked drain, or anything in between. Their experienced team is available 24/7, ensuring that you never have to face a plumbing problem alone. No matter the time of day or night, Essendon Plumbing Services is dedicated to solving your plumbing issues the right way. Stay calm, stay prepared, and trust the experts to handle the rest