Emergency Plumbing: What to Do Before the Plumber Arrives

When Plumbing Emergencies Strike

A burst pipe, overflowing toilet, or sewage backup does not wait for convenient timing. For Wisconsin homeowners, plumbing emergencies often strike during the worst possible moments—frozen pipes burst on the coldest nights, water heaters fail on holiday weekends. Knowing what to do in those critical minutes before the plumber arrives can mean the difference between minor inconvenience and major damage.

Step 1: Shut Off the Water

This is the most important action you can take. Know these shutoff locations before an emergency occurs:

Fixture Shutoffs

For isolated problems, shutoffs at the fixture may be sufficient:

• Toilets: Oval valve on the wall behind the toilet, turn clockwise
• Sinks: Valves under the sink cabinet, turn clockwise
• Washing machine: Valves behind the machine
• Water heater: Cold water inlet valve on top

Main Water Shutoff

For major leaks or when you cannot find the local shutoff:

• Usually located where water enters your home
• In Wisconsin, often in the basement near the front foundation wall
• Turn the valve clockwise until it stops
• If you have a well, you may also need to turn off the pump

Pro tip: Locate and label your main shutoff today. In an emergency, you will not have time to search.

Step 2: Stop Active Water Flow

Depending on the emergency:

Overflowing Toilet

1. Remove the tank lid
2. Push down the flapper to stop water entering the bowl
3. Lift the float to stop the tank from refilling
4. Turn off the supply valve

Burst Pipe

1. Shut off main water immediately
2. Open faucets to drain remaining water
3. Turn off electricity to affected areas if water is near electrical outlets

Water Heater Leak

1. Turn off the cold water supply to the heater
2. For gas water heaters, turn the gas valve to "pilot"
3. For electric water heaters, turn off the breaker
4. Attach a hose to the drain valve if needed to empty the tank

Step 3: Minimize Water Damage

While waiting for the plumber:

Immediate Actions

• Remove standing water: Use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum
• Move valuables: Get furniture, rugs, and belongings away from water
• Protect floors: Place towels or plastic under dripping areas
• Open cabinets: Allow air circulation under sinks

If Water Is Near Electricity

• Turn off power to affected areas at the breaker panel
• Do not stand in water while touching electrical items
• Do not use electrical appliances in wet areas

Step 4: Document the Damage

For insurance purposes:

• Take photos and video of the damage before cleaning up
• Document the source of the leak if visible
• Note the time you discovered the problem
• Keep damaged items until your insurance adjuster advises

Common Plumbing Emergencies in Wisconsin

Frozen Pipes

Wisconsin winters frequently cause frozen pipes. Signs include:

• No water or reduced flow from faucets
• Frost visible on exposed pipes
• Strange smells from drains (ice blocking vents)

If pipes are frozen but not burst:

1. Keep the faucet open
2. Apply gentle heat with a hair dryer or heat lamp
3. Never use open flame
4. Work from the faucet toward the frozen section

If a pipe bursts:

1. Shut off main water immediately
2. Call an emergency plumber
3. Begin water removal

Sewage Backup

Sewage backing up through drains is a health hazard:

• Do not use any plumbing fixtures
• Keep family and pets away from affected areas
• Turn off HVAC to prevent spreading contaminants
• Call emergency plumber immediately
• Professional cleaning will be required

Gas Water Heater Issues

If you smell gas near your water heater:

• Do not turn on lights or create any spark
• Open windows
• Leave the house
• Call the gas company from outside
• Do not return until cleared by professionals

What Qualifies as a Plumbing Emergency?

True emergencies requiring immediate service:

• Burst pipes
• Sewage backup
• No water to entire house
• Gas leaks
• Flooding from any source
• Overflowing fixtures that cannot be stopped

Issues that can typically wait for regular business hours:

• Dripping faucets
• Running toilets
• Slow drains
• Minor leaks under sinks (with shutoff working)
• Water heater not producing hot water (no leak)

Emergency Plumber Costs

Emergency service costs more than scheduled appointments:

• After-hours service call: $100-200
• Weekend/holiday call: Often 1.5-2x normal rates
• Emergency repairs: Vary widely based on problem

While expensive, emergency service prevents far greater damage. A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons per hour.

Prevention Tips

Reduce emergency risk with these practices:

• Insulate pipes: Especially in unheated areas
• Know your shutoffs: Label them clearly
• Maintain water heater: Annual inspection extends life
• Address small issues: Do not let them become emergencies
• Have a plumber's number ready: Research before you need one

Building Your Emergency Plan

Be prepared before disaster strikes:

1. Locate and label all shutoff valves
2. Keep a plumber's contact information accessible
3. Know where your main electrical panel is
4. Keep basic supplies: towels, mop, bucket, flashlight
5. Review your homeowners insurance coverage

Get Connected With Emergency Plumbers

Having a trusted plumber's number before an emergency saves precious time when every minute counts. HomeHelpersCo helps Wisconsin homeowners connect with reliable local plumbers for both emergency and routine service.

Do not wait for an emergency. Get free quotes from trusted local plumbers today and know who to call when you need help fast.