A plumbing emergency is any problem that is causing damage right now, creates a health or safety risk, or leaves your home without water or a working toilet. Burst pipes, sewage backups, and major leaks are the most common examples.
Water That Will Not Stop
If water is spraying from a pipe, pouring through a ceiling, or spreading across the floor, treat it as an emergency. Close the nearest valve or the main shutoff first. Every minute of running water can soak floors, walls, and belongings.
Sewage or Dirty Water
Sewage coming up through a toilet, tub, or floor drain is a health risk. Stop using water in the home so you do not add to the backup. Keep children and pets away from the area.
No Water or No Working Toilet
Losing all water in the home is urgent, especially in winter, when frozen pipes may be the cause. Before you call, check whether your neighbors also have no water. A problem with a city water main can be reported to 311. If you have only one toilet and it cannot be used, that is urgent too.
Problems That Can Usually Wait
A dripping faucet, a slow sink, or a toilet that runs from time to time are worth fixing soon. They are rarely emergencies. Close the fixture’s valve if needed and schedule a repair.
When you are not sure, ask yourself three questions:
- Is water spreading?
- Is there a health or safety risk?
- Can my household manage until tomorrow?
If the first two answers are yes, or the last one is no, treat it as urgent. We also explain how our urgent repair visits work if you want to know what to expect.
If you are dealing with any of these problems at home, call JPR Plumbing at (833) 603-1840. Problems that can wait, like a dripping faucet or a slow sink, fit well into an appointment on a day you choose.