Emergency Plumbing Repairs

Quick response guide for plumbing emergencies. Learn immediate steps to minimize damage and when to call a professional.

Plumbing Emergency?

Step 1: Shut off the water. Know where your main shutoff valve is located before an emergency happens. Stopping the water flow is the most important first step in any plumbing emergency.

Common Plumbing Emergencies

Burst Pipe

CriticalCall Professional

Immediate Steps

  1. 1Shut off main water valve immediately
  2. 2Turn off electricity if water near outlets
  3. 3Open faucets to drain remaining water
  4. 4Catch water with buckets/towels
  5. 5Call emergency plumber

Temporary Fix

Apply pipe repair clamp or wrap with rubber and hose clamps until plumber arrives.

Major Water Leak

HighCall Professional

Immediate Steps

  1. 1Locate and shut off valve to affected fixture
  2. 2If can't find local valve, shut off main
  3. 3Contain water with towels/buckets
  4. 4Move valuables away from water
  5. 5Document damage for insurance

Temporary Fix

Tighten connections, apply plumber's tape, or use pipe repair tape for small leaks.

Frozen Pipes

High

Immediate Steps

  1. 1Keep faucet open to relieve pressure
  2. 2Apply gentle heat (hair dryer, heat lamp)
  3. 3Never use open flame
  4. 4Start heating near faucet, work toward frozen area
  5. 5Check for cracks as pipe thaws

Temporary Fix

Wrap pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Use space heater in the area (safely).

Overflowing Toilet

Medium

Immediate Steps

  1. 1Remove tank lid, push flapper down to stop flow
  2. 2Turn off water valve behind toilet
  3. 3Use plunger with firm, consistent strokes
  4. 4Don't flush again until cleared
  5. 5Clean and disinfect any overflow

Temporary Fix

If plunger doesn't work, try a toilet auger. Avoid chemical drain cleaners.

Clogged Main Drain

HighCall Professional

Immediate Steps

  1. 1Stop using all water in the house
  2. 2Check if multiple drains are affected
  3. 3Locate main cleanout (usually in basement or outside)
  4. 4Do not use chemical cleaners
  5. 5Call professional for main line issues

Temporary Fix

If you have access and experience, try a drain snake in the main cleanout.

No Hot Water

Low to Medium

Immediate Steps

  1. 1Check if pilot light is out (gas)
  2. 2Check circuit breaker (electric)
  3. 3Check temperature setting on unit
  4. 4Listen for unusual sounds
  5. 5Check for leaks around unit

Temporary Fix

Relight pilot light following manufacturer instructions. Reset breaker if tripped.

Sewage Backup

CriticalCall Professional

Immediate Steps

  1. 1Stop using all water immediately
  2. 2Do not flush any toilets
  3. 3Keep people and pets away from area
  4. 4Turn off HVAC to prevent spreading
  5. 5Call professional immediately

Temporary Fix

None - this requires professional remediation. Do not attempt to clean sewage yourself.

Gas Smell (Water Heater)

CriticalCall Professional

Immediate Steps

  1. 1Do not turn on lights or create sparks
  2. 2Open windows and doors
  3. 3Turn off gas at meter if safe
  4. 4Evacuate the home
  5. 5Call gas company and 911 from outside

Temporary Fix

None - evacuate and call professionals. Do not re-enter until cleared.

Know Your Shutoff Locations

Main Water Shutoff

Usually near water meter, in basement, or where water line enters home. Turn clockwise to close.

Toilet Shutoff

Behind toilet near floor. Turn clockwise to stop water to that toilet.

Sink Shutoffs

Under sink inside cabinet. Separate valves for hot and cold.

Water Heater

Cold water inlet valve on top of heater. Shut off to stop water to unit.

Washing Machine

Behind washer, usually two valves (hot and cold).

Main Gas Shutoff

At gas meter outside. Use wrench to turn valve 90 degrees. Only shut off if you smell gas.

Emergency Plumbing Kit

  • Plunger (cup style for sinks, flange style for toilets)
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Pipe wrench
  • Plumber's tape (Teflon tape)
  • Pipe repair clamp
  • Bucket and towels
  • Flashlight
  • Drain snake/auger
  • Rubber gloves
  • Contact info for emergency plumber

Denver Winter Tips

  • Know where your main shutoff is - Denver's freeze risk makes this critical
  • Insulate pipes in unheated areas before winter
  • Keep garage doors closed in winter to protect pipes
  • During extreme cold, let faucets drip to prevent freezing
  • If leaving town in winter, keep heat at 55°F minimum
  • Consider a water leak detection system

Prevention is Key

Learn about proper plumbing maintenance to prevent emergencies.

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