7 Genuine Plumbing Emergencies: When to Call a Professional

Some plumbing issues are more than just a minor inconvenience – they’re full-blown emergencies that require immediate professional attention.

While a small leak or a slow drain might seem like something you can fix on your own, certain plumbing problems pose serious risks to your home and health. Ignoring these issues or attempting a DIY solution could lead to costly damage, water wastage or even dangerous situations.

In this blog, we’ll cover seven genuine plumbing emergencies that should never be ignored. From burst pipes to sewer backups, knowing when to call a professional can save you from expensive repairs and ensure your home’s plumbing system stays safe and functional.

Let’s take a closer look into these critical situations so you can be prepared when an emergency strikes.

1. Burst Pipes

A burst pipe is one of the most urgent plumbing emergencies you can face. When a pipe bursts, it can release gallons of water in minutes, causing serious damage to your home.

Here’s why you need to call a professional immediately:

• Water damage: A burst pipe can quickly flood your home, damaging walls, flooring, furniture, and personal belongings. Immediate action is crucial to minimise costly repairs.
• Mould growth: Excess moisture from a burst pipe creates the perfect environment for mould, which can lead to health problems and expensive remediation.
• Structural issues: Prolonged exposure to water can weaken your home’s foundation or cause wood rot, compromising the integrity of your house.
• Frozen pipes: This rarely happens in Australia but, in colder climates, burst pipes can be caused by freezing temperatures. A professional can fix the damage and advise on how to prevent future freezing.

Don’t wait − if you suspect a burst pipe, turn off your water supply and call a professional plumber right away.

2. Sewer Line Backups

A sewer line backup is one of the worst plumbing emergencies you can face. When your sewer line gets blocked, waste can’t properly exit your home, leading to foul odours, gurgling drains, or even raw sewage backing up into sinks, toilets, or tubs.

This isn’t just an unpleasant situation − it’s a serious health hazard. Exposure to raw sewage can lead to bacterial infections and illness, making this an issue that requires immediate attention.

Attempting to fix a sewer line backup on your own can be risky. The root cause could be anything from tree roots invading your pipes to grease buildup or collapsed sewer lines.

A professional plumber has the right tools and expertise to diagnose the problem and provide a safe, effective solution. If you suspect your sewer line is blocked, don’t wait − call a professional to handle the issue before it turns into a bigger disaster.

3. Major Leaks

Major leaks are a plumbing emergency that can cause significant damage if not addressed quickly. Here’s why you should always call a professional when faced with a large leak:

• Excessive water loss: A major leak wastes a huge amount of water in a short time, leading to skyrocketing water bills. Immediate professional help can stop the leak and save you money.
• Water damage: Leaking water can ruin walls, ceilings, floors, and furniture. The longer the leak goes on, the more expensive the repairs will be.
• Mould risk: Persistent leaks create damp environments where mould thrives. Mould not only damages your home but also poses serious health risks to your family.
• Hidden leaks: Sometimes, leaks aren’t immediately visible, such as those inside walls or under floors. A professional plumber has the tools to locate and fix hidden leaks before they cause extensive damage.

Don’t let a major leak turn into a major disaster − call a plumber right away.

4. Overflowing Toilet

An overflowing toilet is not only inconvenient but can also signal a serious plumbing issue. Here’s why it’s important to call a professional when this happens:

• Potential health hazards: An overflowing toilet can expose you to harmful bacteria and waste, creating an unsanitary situation that can lead to illness.
• Sewer line blockages: One of the most common causes of an overflowing toilet is a blockage in the sewer line. This requires professional tools and expertise to clear, as DIY methods may only temporarily fix the problem.
• Damage to flooring and walls: Continuous overflow can damage your bathroom’s flooring and seep into the walls, causing long-term water damage and expensive repairs.
• Underlying issues: There may be hidden problems like tree roots invading your pipes or a faulty septic system, which only a professional plumber can diagnose and repair effectively.

Don’t ignore an overflowing toilet − call a plumber to prevent bigger issues down the line.

5. Water Heater Failure

When your water heater stops working, it’s not just an inconvenience − it can be a real emergency. Whether you’re faced with ice-cold water or notice leaks around the heater, this is a problem that needs professional attention.

Common signs of water heater failure include strange noises, rusty or discoloured water, and fluctuating water temperatures. Ignoring these signs can lead to bigger issues like flooding, water damage, or even electrical hazards if the heater malfunctions.

Trying to fix a water heater on your own is risky, especially with gas or electrical components involved. A professional plumber will diagnose the issue safely, whether it’s a faulty heating element, a leaking tank, or sediment buildup. They’ll either repair or recommend a replacement if necessary.

Don’t wait for the situation to worsen − call a professional the moment you notice any signs of water heater failure to keep your home safe and comfortable.

6. Gas Leaks from Plumbing Systems

Gas leaks in your plumbing systems are extremely dangerous and should be handled by a professional immediately.

Here’s why calling a plumber is critical in this situation:

• Health risks: Inhaling natural gas can cause dizziness, nausea, and respiratory problems. Long-term exposure can lead to more serious health issues, making a gas leak a serious hazard.
• Fire or explosion risk: Gas leaks are highly flammable, and even a small spark can ignite an explosion. Professionals know how to safely detect and fix gas leaks to prevent dangerous situations.
• Difficult to detect: Gas leaks are often odourless and hard to notice. While utility companies add a sulphur-like smell to help detect them, a professional plumber uses specialised equipment to pinpoint the exact location.
• Legal and safety requirements: Fixing gas leaks involves adhering to strict safety codes and regulations. A professional ensures that your home is compliant and safe.

If you suspect a gas leak, call a professional immediately. And there’s another dangerous by-product that can leak from plumbing systems.

7. Carbon Monoxide Leaks

A carbon monoxide leak is a silent but deadly plumbing emergency that requires immediate action. Often associated with gas water heaters or boilers, carbon monoxide is an odourless, colourless gas that can be fatal if inhaled in large amounts.

If you have gas-powered appliances in your home and start to experience symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or nausea, it could be a sign of a carbon monoxide leak.

Attempting to locate or fix the source of a carbon monoxide leak on your own is extremely dangerous. Professional plumbers are trained to handle these situations safely, using specialised tools to detect the leak and repair the issue. In many cases, gas appliances may need servicing or replacing to prevent future leaks.

If you suspect a carbon monoxide leak, leave your home immediately, call emergency services, and then contact a professional plumber to address the problem and ensure your family’s safety.

Don’t Hesitate to Make the Call

In the world of plumbing, some issues are simply too risky to handle on your own. From gas leaks and burst pipes to sewer backups and water heater failures, these emergencies can quickly escalate if not dealt with properly.

Calling a professional plumber ensures the problem is addressed safely and effectively, preventing further damage to your home and avoiding health hazards.

While it might be tempting to attempt a quick fix, the cost of DIY repairs can be much higher in the long run. When faced with any of these seven plumbing emergencies, remember that a professional has the tools and expertise to get the job done right.

So, don’t hesitate − protect your home and your family by calling in the experts when an emergency strikes.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.