How You’ll Know You Have a Plumbing Emergency (And What to Do Aobut It)

Plumbing problems have a funny way of showing up at the worst possible times. It’s never during a calm, quiet afternoon. It’s late at night, right before guests arrive, or when you’re already juggling a dozen other things. And while some plumbing issues can wait a day or two, others absolutely cannot. So how do you know when you’re dealing with a true plumbing emergency versus something that’s just annoying? Let’s break it down.

What Counts as a Plumbing Emergency?

First things first, a plumbing emergency is any situation that:

• Puts your home at risk of water damage
• Creates a health or safety concern
• Prevents you from using essential plumbing (toilets, sinks, water supply)
• Will likely get worse fast if left alone

If you’re thinking, “This feels bad… and it’s getting worse,” trust that instinct.

Here are some of the most common signs you’ve got an emergency on your hands:

1. Burst or Severely Leaking Pipes

If water is actively pouring out of a pipe, wall, ceiling, or floor, this is an emergency. Even a small burst can release gallons of water in minutes, causing damage to drywall, flooring, furniture, and more.

What to do right now:

• Shut off your home’s main water valve immediately
• Turn off electricity to the affected area if water is near outlets
• Call a plumber right away

2. Sewer Backups or Multiple Drains Clogging at Once

Why it’s urgent:

• Sewage exposure is a serious health hazard
• Backups can quickly spread to tubs, showers, and toilets

What to do:

• Stop using water in your home
• Avoid contact with contaminated water
• Call for emergency plumbing service

3. No Water at All (Especially Without Warning)

If you suddenly lose water throughout your home and it’s not due to a city-wide outage, something’s wrong. This could indicate a major leak, frozen pipe, or failure in your plumbing system.

What to check:

• Ask neighbors if they’re experiencing the same issue
• Check your main shut-off valve

If it’s just you, call a plumber.

4. Water Heater Problems That Can’t Wait

No hot water is inconvenient. But a leaking, smoking, or making-loud-noises water heater is an emergency. Call immediately if you notice:

• Water pooling around the unit
• A metallic or burning smell
• Rust-colored water
• Popping or banging noises

Water heaters are under pressure, and when they fail, they can fail big.

5. Water Damage You Can’t Explain

If you notice sudden water stains, bubbling paint, warped floors, or a musty smell – but can’t seem to find the source – you may have a hidden leak. These can quietly cause serious structural damage if ignored. If damage is spreading or worsening quickly, it’s time to bring in a pro.

What to Do During a Plumbing Emergency

When things go sideways, a calm plan makes all the difference:

• Shut off the water – Know where your main water valve is before an emergency happens.
• Protect your space – Move valuables, towels, or buckets to minimize damage.
• Avoid DIY fixes – Temporary patches can sometimes make things worse.
• Call a licensed plumber ASAP – The faster you act, the less damage (and cost) you’ll face.

When in Doubt, It’s Better to Call – Contact Us Today in Mansfield, TX and the Surrounding Areas

If you’re on the fence about whether something is an emergency, it’s okay to ask. Waiting too long can turn a manageable issue into a costly repair. Plumbing emergencies are stressful. But knowing the warning signs and acting quickly can protect your home, your health, and your peace of mind. And remember: when water is involved, time matters. Contact Mansfield Plumbing, Electrical, Heating and Air today!