What is Considered a Plumbing Emergency? (And When to Pick Up The Phone)

Plumbing emergencies can strike at any time.

Whether it’s a burst pipe, a freezing cold shower, or a drain that won’t drain, it’s easy to end up feeling helpless and worried about potential damage to your home. 

When it comes to defining a plumbing emergency, the short version is – if it’s important to you, it’s an emergency.

In this article, we’ll explore some common plumbing emergencies you may face (or may already have faced), plus what to do and who to call when you need emergency plumbing services. 

Ready to save time and money on your next emergency call-out?

Let’s get right into it.

Hot and dry summers can cause water pipes to expand and contract. This constant stress on the pipes can lead to cracks or bursts, resulting in a significant water leak. If you notice water gushing out of a pipe or flooding your home, it’s undoubtedly a plumbing emergency.

Shut off the main water supply immediately and call a professional plumber to assess and repair the damage.

Falling leaves, tree roots, and debris can clog your drains, causing wastewater to back up into your home. If you find that your sinks, toilets, or showers are draining slowly or not at all, it’s essential to address the issue promptly. Ignoring blocked drains can lead to more significant problems over time, such as pipe damage or sewage backup.

Gas leaks are hazardous and can lead to fires or explosions. If you smell gas in your home or suspect a gas leak, don’t hesitate to evacuate the premises immediately. Turn off the gas supply if it’s safe to do so, and call an emergency plumber in Perth who is qualified to deal with gas-related issues.

Sewage backups are not only unpleasant but also hazardous to your health. If you notice sewage water or foul odours coming from your drains or toilets, it’s crucial to act quickly.

A sewage backup can contaminate your living space with harmful bacteria and pathogens. Contact a professional plumber immediately to assess and resolve the issue.

Perth’s unpredictable weather, including heavy rains and occasional storms, can lead to roof leaks. 

A leaking roof may not seem like a piping issue, but it can cause significant water damage to your home’s interior. Water stains on ceilings or walls, peeling paint, or visible drips are signs of a leaking roof. Addressing this promptly can prevent further structural damage and mould growth.

An overflowing toilet can quickly turn into a messy and unsanitary situation. If your toilet is continuously overflowing or you can’t stop it from overflowing despite your efforts, it’s a plumbing emergency. Turn off the water supply to the toilet and call a plumber to diagnose and fix the problem.

While a single leaky tap may not seem like a major emergency, it can add up over time, wasting a significant amount of water and increasing your water bill.

In a dry climate like Perth’s, where water conservation is crucial, addressing leaky taps is not only about preventing water wastage but also about saving money.

A dripping tap can also be a sign of underlying issues, such as worn-out washers or seals, which may worsen if left unattended. Therefore, even a seemingly minor leaky tap should be promptly fixed by a professional plumber.

Low water pressure can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to take a shower or wash dishes.

In Perth, where water conservation efforts are ongoing, maintaining efficient water pressure is essential. If you notice a sudden drop in water pressure throughout your home, it could indicate a blockage or a more significant issue, such as a hidden leak.

While not as urgent as a burst pipe, low water pressure should still be investigated by a professional plumber to identify the root cause and restore proper water flow.

If your hot water system suddenly stops working, it can disrupt your daily routines and comfort. Hot water system failures can occur due to various reasons, including faulty thermostats, heating elements, or sediment buildup. In some cases, these issues can be resolved with minor repairs, while others may require a full replacement of the hot water system.

Given the importance of hot water in daily life, any failure in the system should be treated as an emergency to ensure a swift resolution.

Hot water tanks have a limited lifespan, and over time, they can develop corrosion or rust that weakens the tank’s structure. 

A corroded or burst hot water tank can lead to significant water damage in your home. If you notice puddles of water around your hot water tank or unusual noises coming from it, it’s crucial to take immediate action. 

Turn off the water and gas supply to the tank and make a call to your local hot water plumbing experts to assess the situation. Replacing a corroded or burst hot water tank is not only essential for your comfort but also for preventing potential property damage.

Perth’s water supply is generally of high quality, but instances of water contamination can still occur.

If you notice a sudden change in the colour, taste, or odour of your tap water, it could be a sign of water contamination. This can pose health risks, and it’s essential to address the issue immediately.

Contact your local water authority to report the problem, and speak to a member of the Maxey Plumbing team on (08) 9496 1800 to investigate any potential issues within your piping system that may be contributing to water contamination.

Plumbing emergencies in Perth can encompass a range of issues, from burst water pipes and gas leaks to blocked drains and hot water system failures.

Even “minor” problems like leaky taps and low water pressure should not be ignored, as they can lead to water wastage and increased water bills.

Remember to stay proactive in addressing piping issues, both to prevent emergencies and to ensure the efficient operation of your piping.

Regular maintenance and inspections are key to identifying and resolving potential problems before they escalate into full blown and expensive emergencies.

We are an established, well-experienced contractor trusted by some of the biggest brands here in Western Australia.

Our team has the experience to work on everything from fuel site services to routine work in any commercial, residential or industrial setting.

We offer a 1-hour maximum wait and have a no-call-back policy. We make sure to provide top-notch service on every job and offer a 6-year workmanship warranty to back that up.

For a fast free quote today, call us on 08 9496 1800 or request a quote online.