Plumbing Emergencies: Common Issues and How to Fix Them

The Most Common Plumbing Emergencies and How to Handle Them

A plumbing emergency can happen at any time, and when it does, quick action is crucial to minimize water damage and costly repairs. Whether it’s a burst pipe, an overflowing toilet, or a major leak, knowing how to respond immediately can make a significant difference.

In this guide, we’ll cover the most common plumbing emergencies, what causes them, and step-by-step instructions on how to fix them before calling in a professional.

1. Burst Pipes

A burst pipe is one of the most severe plumbing emergencies, capable of causing massive water damage in a short amount of time. This issue is most common during winter, when freezing temperatures cause pipes to expand and crack.

How to Handle a Burst Pipe

• Shut off the main water supply immediately to prevent further flooding.
• Open all faucets to relieve pressure from the pipes.
• Locate the burst pipe and wrap it with towels or rags to minimize leaks.
• If possible, use pipe repair tape or a clamp to seal the break temporarily.
• Call a professional plumber to replace or repair the damaged pipe.

To prevent burst pipes in the future, insulate exposed pipes during winter and keep faucets dripping in extreme cold to prevent freezing.

2. Overflowing Toilets

An overflowing toilet is a nightmare scenario that can result in widespread water damage and unsanitary conditions. It’s usually caused by a blockage in the drainpipe or an issue with the float mechanism inside the toilet tank.

How to Stop an Overflowing Toilet

• Remove the toilet tank lid and push down on the flapper valve to stop additional water from flowing into the bowl.
• Turn off the water supply valve located behind or beneath the toilet.
• Use a plunger to try and dislodge the blockage.
• If plunging doesn’t work, use a toilet auger (plumbing snake) to clear deeper clogs.
• If the problem persists, a professional plumber may need to clear the main drain line.

To prevent overflows, avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper—no wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products.

3. Clogged Drains

Slow or clogged drains are one of the most frequent plumbing issues and can quickly turn into an emergency if left untreated. Clogs typically result from a buildup of hair, grease, food particles, and soap scum.

How to Fix a Clogged Drain

• Try a plunger first to create suction and dislodge the blockage.
• Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar into the drain, followed by hot water, to break up grease and debris.
• Use a drain snake or auger to remove stubborn clogs.
• If multiple drains are clogged at once, the issue may be in the main sewer line, requiring professional intervention.

To prevent clogs, install drain strainers in sinks and showers and avoid pouring grease down the drain.

4. Leaking Faucets and Pipes

A dripping faucet or leaking pipe may not seem urgent, but over time, it can waste gallons of water and increase utility bills.

How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

• Turn off the water supply to the affected fixture.
• Disassemble the faucet and replace worn-out washers or O-rings.
• If the leak is coming from a pipe, use pipe tape or a rubber patch to stop minor leaks temporarily.
• Call a plumber if the leak persists, as corroded pipes may need replacement.

Regularly checking under sinks and around plumbing fixtures helps detect leaks early before they become costly problems.

5. Water Heater Failure

If your water heater suddenly stops working, it can disrupt daily life, especially in winter. The most common causes of water heater failure include sediment buildup, faulty heating elements, or a broken thermostat.

What to Do If Your Water Heater Stops Working

• Check the circuit breaker to ensure the water heater is receiving power.
• Turn the unit off and on to reset the system.
• If there’s no hot water at all, the heating element may be broken and needs replacement.
• If you hear loud noises coming from the tank, sediment buildup may be the cause—flushing the tank can help.
• If the water heater is leaking, turn off the water supply and call a plumber immediately.

Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank once a year, can prevent sediment buildup and extend the unit’s lifespan.

6. Sewer Backups

A sewer backup is one of the worst plumbing emergencies, as it results in raw sewage flooding your home. This can occur due to tree root intrusion, pipe blockages, or heavy rainfall overwhelming the sewer system.

What to Do If You Have a Sewer Backup

• Stop using all plumbing fixtures immediately.
• Avoid flushing toilets, running water, or using sinks and showers.
• Check the lowest drain in your home (such as the basement) for signs of sewage backup.
• If safe to do so, shut off the main water valve to prevent more water from entering the system.
• Contact a professional plumber immediately, as sewer backups require specialized equipment to clear.

Preventative measures include installing a backflow prevention valve and scheduling routine sewer line inspections.

7. Low Water Pressure

If your water pressure suddenly drops, it could indicate a hidden leak, clogged pipes, or an issue with the municipal water supply.

How to Restore Water Pressure

• Check if low pressure is affecting all faucets or just one fixture.
• Clean aerators and showerheads, as they may be clogged with mineral deposits.
• Inspect for visible leaks under sinks, behind appliances, or in the basement.
• If no leaks are visible, the issue may be a pressure regulator malfunction or a municipal water supply problem—calling a plumber can help identify the cause.

Regularly inspecting pipes and fixtures helps maintain consistent water pressure and prevents major issues.

Conclusion: Be Prepared for Plumbing Emergencies

Plumbing emergencies can happen without warning, but knowing how to respond quickly can minimize damage and repair costs. Whether dealing with burst pipes, overflowing toilets, or water heater failures, taking immediate action is key to protecting your home.

At Cohesive Mechanical, we provide emergency plumbing services to help homeowners tackle unexpected issues. From leak detection to sewer line repairs, our experts are ready to assist with any plumbing emergency.Contact us today for fast, reliable plumbing repairs!