What to Do in a Plumbing Emergency Before the Plumber Arrives

Plumbing problems never wait for the right time. A burst pipe, a flooded bathroom, or a leaking water heater can turn into a mess fast. It’s stressful, but if you know what to do, you can stop the damage before it gets worse. 

At Greenwell Plumbing, we’ve helped families around New Albany and Louisville for decades. We know what these emergencies look like, and we’ve seen how small actions in the first few minutes can save a home. The steps below are simple, practical, and safe for any homeowner in Southern Indiana or Kentuckiana. 

Stay Calm and Act Fast: First Steps in a Plumbing Emergency 

Take a breath and move with purpose. Panicking wastes time, and water doesn’t wait. 

1. Shut Off the Water Supply 

Start by stopping the water. Go to your main shut-off valve and turn it clockwise until it stops. Most homes have it near the water meter, in the basement, or outside along the foundation. 

If the leak is coming from one place, like a toilet or sink, turn the smaller valve behind it instead. That lets you keep water running elsewhere while cutting it off where it’s leaking. 

2. Turn Off the Water Heater or Main Power if Necessary 

Once the water is off, switch off your water heater. Electric models can burn out if they heat an empty tank. Use the breaker box for electric or set gas heaters to “pilot.” 

If you see water near outlets or wires, cut power to that part of the house from your panel. It’s better to lose power for an hour than risk a shock. 

3. Identify the Source of the Problem 

Walk around and look for what started the problem. Maybe it’s a cracked pipe under the sink or a water heater that finally gave out. Knowing what failed helps when you call for help. Tell the plumber what you see so they know what tools and parts to bring. 

4. Minimize Water Damage While You Wait 

Once the flow stops, your job is to get ahead of the mess. The faster you clean up, the less harm the water can do. 

5. Use Towels, Buckets, and Wet or Dry Vacuums 

Grab towels, mop, or a wet/dry vacuum. Soak up as much water as you can and put buckets under active drips. If the ceiling is leaking, place one there too. We’ve seen basements flood fast in Louisville when this step gets skipped. 

6. Move Valuables and Electronics Away from Water 

Anything that can soak or short out should be moved right away. Lift rugs, unplug electronics, and move furniture or boxes to higher ground. A few minutes of work now can save you from replacing things later. 

7. Open Drains and Spigots to Relieve Pressure 

Once the main valve is off, open the faucets around your home to let leftover water drain. Start upstairs and work your way down. This helps release pressure in the lines. If it’s cold outside, open outdoor spigots too. When it’s freezing, letting a small trickle run later can help keep the pipes from freezing again. 

Common Plumbing Emergencies and Quick Responses 

Every home in Kentuckiana faces similar plumbing problems. Here’s how to handle the ones we see most often until help arrives. 

Burst Pipes 

Turn off your main water supply as fast as you can. Open faucets to drain pressure. Wrap the burst section with towels to contain the spray. If it’s cold and safe to do so, use gentle heat from a hair dryer to thaw frozen spots nearby. 

Overflowing Toilets 

Take the lid off the tank and push the rubber flapper down to stop more water from flowing into the bowl. Turn the valve behind the toilet to shut off its supply. Then mop up any standing water to keep it from soaking the floor. 

Leaking Water Heaters 

Turn off the power or gas to the unit. Then close the cold-water valve at the top of the tank. Slide a pan or bucket under the leak if possible. If water is pooling near wires or the base of the tank, don’t touch anything until your plumber arrives. 

Sewage Backups 

Stop using sinks, tubs, and toilets right away. Backups carry bacteria that can make you sick. Keep kids and pets away from the area and open a window if it smells bad. Your plumber will need to clear the main drain line before anything can be used again. 

When to Call a Professional Emergency Plumber 

Some plumbing problems look small at first but get worse fast. If you’re not sure, call. That one call can save you from thousands in damage. 

Signs You Shouldn’t Wait Until Morning 

You should call an emergency plumber if you notice: 

• Continuous leaks or running water you can’t stop 
• Flooding in any part of your home 
• Sewage backing up into drains 
• No water at all from your fixtures 
• Frozen or burst pipes during a cold snap 

Even if things calm down after you shut the water off, a professional can make sure the problem doesn’t come back. 

Why 24/7 Plumbing Service Matters in New Albany 

Southern Indiana weather keeps every homeowner on their toes. Freezing nights can split copper lines. Heavy rain can flood a basement in minutes. Having a 24-hour plumber nearby means you’re never stuck waiting through the night while water spreads. Greenwell’s emergency team is based right here in New Albany, serving homes across Louisville and Kentuckiana every day of the year. 

Call Greenwell for Immediate Emergency Plumbing Help 

If you’ve got a burst pipe, a flooded bathroom, or water leaking anywhere it shouldn’t, call Greenwell Plumbing. We answer 24 hours a day and promise a 30-minute call ahead before we arrive. 

You can also schedule service online. Whether you’re in New Albany, Louisville, or anywhere in Southern Indiana, we’ll get there fast and take care of the problem the right way.