Identifying Plumbing Emergencies: When to Call for Assistance

Posted by St George 24 Hour Plumber on 3 Jun 2025

Plumbing emergencies are a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Clogged drains, burst pipes leaky fixtures, gas leaks can cause severe damage to your home and put your family’s safety at risk.

It’s important to address the issues swiftly and effectively to minimize the damage and keep your home safe. We’ll go over the most commonly encountered kinds of plumbing issues and what you should do in case of an emergency.

Common Types of Plumbing Emergencies

Burst Pipes

What causes burst pipes?

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

The signs of bursting pipes

Signs of burst pipes include lower water pressure, unusual sounds coming from pipes, wet spots on walls or ceilings, and a decrease in water quality.

What to do in case of a burst pipe

If you suspect a burst pipe, shut off water to the source right away and seek out a professional plumber.

Clogged Drains

What causes drains to become clogged?

Clogged drains are usually caused by hair buildup, soap scum, and other debris that has accumulated in pipes.

Signs of clogged drains

Signs of clogged drains include slow draining water, loud gurgling sounds coming from pipes, as well as bad smells.

What should you do in the event of a drain that is clogged

Try using a plunger or drain snake to clear the drain. If these methods don’t work, call a professional 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 leaking fixtures include drips, damp spots on walls or ceilings, and an unexpected rise in the cost of water.

What to do in case of a leaky fixture

Try tightening any loose connections or replacing damaged components. If this doesn’t solve the issue, contact a professional plumber.

Gas Leaks

The causes of gas leaks

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

Signs of gas leaks

Signs of gas leaks include whistling or hissing sounds close to devices that use gas, rotten egg smell, dizziness, or headaches.

What should you do in the event of a gas leak

If you suspect that there is a gas leak, you should evacuate the house immediately and call an experienced plumber.

When should you call for professional Help

Importance of calling a professional plumber

Professional plumbers are equipped with the knowledge, experience, and equipment to tackle plumbing emergencies efficiently and quickly. If you attempt to fix the plumbing issue yourself can put your life and safety at risk.

The signs that suggest you require professional assistance

Signs that indicate you need professional assistance include an abrupt increase in your water bill, a decrease in the quality of your water, and the inability to solve the issue yourself.

What to expect when you contact for help

When you call a professional plumber, you can expect prompt response and a thorough evaluation of the problem, and an upfront cost estimate.

Prevention Tips

Regular maintenance for plumbing

Regular plumbing maintenance can reduce the risk of plumbing problems in identifying minor problems before they turn into larger ones.

Simple steps to prevent common plumbing issues

Simple methods to avoid common plumbing problems include using drain screens, avoiding placing grease in drains, and avoid flushing items that are not flushable in the toilet.

When should you schedule plumbing inspections?

Schedule plumbing inspections annually or bi-annually to find and correct potential problems before they escalate into emergency situations.

Conclusion

plumbing emergencies are stressful and costly, but addressing them quickly and efficiently can lessen the impact and keep your family safe. Remember to call a professional plumber for assistance and take preventive measures to avoid common plumbing problems. With these suggestions will make sure the plumbing is running smoothly and avoid expensive and stressful situations. If you’re facing an emergency with your plumbing, don’t hesitate to call St George 24 Hour Plumber at 1300 952 521. We have a team that is highly skilled and knowledgeable plumbers is available 24/7 to assist you in any issue you might be facing.

Commonly Asked Questions (FAQs)

How should I proceed in the case of an emergency with plumbing?

In the event of an emergency in plumbing, shut off water to the mains immediately and make a call to a professional plumber.

Do I have the ability to repair a plumbing problem myself?

It’s not recommended to try to repair a plumbing problem yourself. It could put your life and your property in danger. It is recommended to contact a professional plumber for help.

What should I do to know when to call for help from a professional?

Signs that you require professional help include a sudden rise in your water bills, a decrease in the quality of water and inability to solve the issue yourself.

How can I stop plumbing issues from occurring?

You can avoid plumbing emergencies from occurring by scheduling regular plumbing maintenance and taking the necessary steps to avoid common plumbing problems, making sure you schedule plumbing checks every year or bi-annually.

What do I look for in a professional plumber?

Look for a professional plumber who is insured, licensed, experienced, and has a good reputation.

What is the cost to employ an experienced plumber?

It is expensive to hire a professional plumber can vary depending on the type of emergency and the severity of the damage. Contact St George 24 Hour Plumber for an upfront cost estimate.