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When a plumbing emergency hits — a burst pipe, an overflowing toilet, or a sudden leak — panic can set in fast. Water damage happens quickly, and knowing what to do before a professional arrives can make all the difference. Acting quickly can save you money, protect your property, and make repairs easier once the plumber is on site.
At Atlas Plumbing & Rooter, we understand that plumbing problems never happen at a convenient time. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you stay calm and take the right steps during an emergency.
1. Shut Off the Water Immediately
Your first priority in any plumbing emergency is to stop the flow of water.
Find your main water shut-off valve: It’s usually located near the water meter, in the basement, garage, or along an exterior wall.
Turn it clockwise to close it completely. This stops water from entering your plumbing system, preventing additional flooding and damage.
For smaller issues, like a leaking toilet or sink, use the localized shut-off valve beneath or behind the fixture instead of turning off the whole system.
If you’re unsure where your shut-off valve is, take time to locate it now — before an emergency happens.
2. Turn Off Your Water Heater
After shutting off the water supply, turn off your water heater to prevent heat from building up inside the tank. Without a steady flow of water, the heater can overheat or even burst.
For gas water heaters, switch the thermostat to the “pilot” setting.
For electric models, turn off the breaker connected to the heater.
This step helps protect both your water heater and your plumbing system.
3. Open Drains and Faucets
Once the main supply is off, open your faucets and drains to release any remaining water in the pipes. This helps reduce pressure buildup and allows water to drain safely away from problem areas.
If you’re dealing with a clog or backup, avoid using chemical drain cleaners. They can make the problem worse or damage your pipes before the plumber arrives.
4. Contain the Leak and Minimize Damage
Even after you stop the flow of water, you’ll need to prevent further damage.
Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water.
Place a bucket under leaks to catch drips.
Move furniture and electronics away from affected areas.
If water has spread into flooring or walls, try to dry the area with fans. The faster you act, the less likely you’ll face mold growth or structural issues.
5. Take Note of What Happened
Before your plumber arrives, make a quick list or take photos of what you’ve observed — where the leak started, which fixtures are affected, and any sounds or smells you noticed. This information helps the plumber diagnose the issue faster, saving time and labor costs.
6. Call a Professional Emergency Plumber
Once you’ve taken these steps, contact a trusted professional for immediate assistance. At Atlas Plumbing & Rooter, our licensed plumbers are available for emergency calls, ready to restore your home’s plumbing safely and efficiently.
We handle everything from burst pipes and overflowing drains to water heater failures and severe leaks — and we do it with the care and professionalism your home deserves.
Need Help Right Now? Call Atlas Plumbing & Rooter at (415) 849-2346
Plumbing emergencies can be stressful, but you don’t have to face them alone. The experts at Atlas Plumbing & Rooter are here to help you 24/7 with fast, reliable service across the Bay Area.
Call (415) 849-2346 today for immediate assistance — and get your plumbing back under control.