Plumbing Emergencies 101: What They Are and When to Call for Help

Posted by Croydon Emergency Plumber on 18 Apr 2025

Plumbing emergencies are homeowners’ worst nightmare. Burst pipes, clogged drains, leaking fixtures, and gas leaks could cause significant damage to your home and put your family’s safety at risk.

It is crucial to deal with these emergencies quickly and efficiently to limit the damage and ensure that your home is secure. In this article, we’ll go over the most commonly encountered kinds of plumbing emergencies, and the best way to handle them in the event in the event of an emergency.

Common Plumbing Emergencies

Pipes Burst Pipes

The causes of burst pipes

Pipe bursts are typically caused by freezing temperatures, aging pipes or high pressure in the water.

Signs of burst pipes

The signs of a burst pipe include low pressure in the water, odd noises emanating from pipes damp spots on walls and ceilings, and a decline in the quality of water.

What to do in the event of a burst pipe

If you suspect a burst pipe, shut off water to the source immediately and contact a professional plumber.

Clogged Drains

Causes of clogged drains

Clogged drains are usually caused by buildup of hair soap scum, soap, and other sludge in pipes.

Signs of blocked drains

The indicators of a blocked drain include slower draining of the water, noises emanating from pipes, and bad smells.

What to do in the event of a clogged drain

Try using a plunger or drain snake to clear the drain. If none of these solutions work, call an experienced plumber.

Leaking Fixtures

Causes of leaking fixtures

Leaking fixtures are typically caused by worn or damaged parts.

Evidence of fixtures that are leaking

Signs of leaky fixtures include water spots that drip, wet areas on walls or ceilings, and a sudden increase in water bills.

What should you do in the event of a leaky fixture

Try tightening any loose connections, or replacing damaged parts. If this isn’t enough to solve the issue, you should contact an experienced plumber.

Gas Leaks

Causes of gas leaks

Gas leaks are typically caused by damaged pipes or faulty gas appliances.

Signs of gas leaks

The signs of gas leaks include whistling or hissing sound near the gas appliance, or a rotten egg smell, dizziness, or headaches.

What to do in case of the possibility of a gas leak

If you suspect a gas leak, leave your home immediately and contact an experienced plumber.

If you need professional help, call us. Help

It is important to call an experienced plumber

Professional plumbers have the expertise skills, experience and equipment to tackle plumbing emergencies quickly and efficiently. Doing the repair of a plumbing emergency yourself can risk your safety and your property at risk.

These are signs that you may require professional assistance

Signs that suggest you require professional assistance include an abrupt increase in water bills or a decline in water quality, and the inability to solve the issue your self.

What should you expect when you call for assistance

When you call a professional plumber to fix your plumbing issue, you can count on prompt response and a thorough evaluation of the issue, and an upfront cost estimate.

Prevention Tips

Regular plumbing maintenance

Regular plumbing maintenance can prevent plumbing issues through a quick identification and fix of minor issues before they become larger ones.

Simple steps to prevent common plumbing issues

Simple ways to prevent common plumbing issues are to use drain screens, avoiding placing grease in drains, and avoiding flushing non-flushable items into the toilet.

When to schedule plumbing inspections

Plan plumbing inspections every year or bi-annually in order to detect and address potential issues before they escalate into emergency situations.

Conclusion

plumbing emergencies are difficult and costly, but addressing them quickly and efficiently can minimize the damage and ensure your family’s safety. Make sure to contact an experienced plumber in case you require assistance and to make preventive steps to avoid the most common plumbing issues. If you follow these guidelines to ensure the plumbing operates smoothly and avoid stress and expense in the event of an emergency. If you’re in the middle of any plumbing issues, don’t hesitate to call Croydon Emergency Plumber at 1300 933 202. We have a team that is highly skilled and experienced plumbers are available 24 hours a day to help you with any plumbing emergency you’re confronted with.

Most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do in the case of an emergency with plumbing?

In case of an emergency with plumbing, switch off your main supply of water right away and make a call to a professional plumber.

Do I have the ability to solve a plumbing issue myself?

It is not advised to attempt to fix a plumbing issue by yourself. It could put your life and property at risk. It’s recommended to call an experienced plumber to help.

How do I know when to reach out for help from a professional?

Signs that you require professional assistance are a sudden increase in your water bill and a drop in the quality of water and the inability to fix the problem by yourself.

How can I prevent the possibility of plumbing problems?

You can avoid plumbing emergencies from occurring by scheduling regular maintenance for your plumbing and taking the necessary steps to avoid typical plumbing issues, and scheduling plumbing inspections every year or bi-annually.

What do I look for in an experienced plumber?

Choose a reputable plumber who is insured, licensed and experienced. They also have an excellent reputation.

What’s the price to engage a professional plumber?

Cost of employing an experienced plumber is contingent upon the type of emergency that is being faced and the extent of damage. Contact Croydon Emergency Plumber for an upfront cost estimate.