Everything You Need to Know About Plumbing Emergencies and When to Seek Help

Posted by North West 24 Hour Plumber on 4 Nov 2025

Plumbing emergencies can be homeowners’ worst nightmare. Clogged drains, burst pipes or fixtures that leak, as well as gas leaks could cause significant destruction to your home and put the safety of your family at risk.

It is crucial to deal with the issues swiftly and effectively to minimize the damage and ensure your home is safe. We’ll discuss the most common kinds of plumbing issues and the best way to handle them in case of an emergency.

Common Plumbing Emergencies

Pipes Burst Pipes

The causes of burst pipes

The majority of burst pipes are caused by cold temperatures, old pipes, or high water pressure.

The signs of bursting pipes

Signs of burst pipes include low pressure in the water, odd sounds coming from pipes, wet spots on walls or ceilings, as well as a decrease in the quality of water.

What should you do in the event of a pipe burst

If you suspect the possibility of a burst pipe, shut off your main supply of water immediately and contact an experienced plumber.

Clogged Drains

What causes drains to become clogged?

The majority of blocked drains are caused by the buildup of hair or soap scum and other sludge in pipes.

Signs of blocked drains

Signs of clogged drains include the slow drainage of water loud gurgling sounds coming from pipes, as well as foul smells.

What to do in case of a drain that is clogged

Try making use of a plunger, or a drain snake to unclog the drain. If neither of these approaches succeed, you should call a professional plumber.

Leaking Fixtures

The causes of leaky fixtures

Leaking fixtures are typically caused by worn or damaged components.

The signs of leaky fixtures

Signs of leaky fixtures include dripping sounds, wet spots on ceilings or walls and an unexpected increase in water bills.

What to do in the event of a leaking fixture

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

Gas Leaks

Gas leaks are caused by a variety of reasons.

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

Signs of gas leaks

The signs of gas leaks include whistling or hissing sound close to gas appliances, a musty egg smell, and dizziness or headaches.

What to do in case of a gas leak

If you suspect that there is a gas leak, you should evacuate the home as soon as you notice a gas leak and then call an expert plumber.

When should you call for professional Assistance

Importance of calling a professional plumber

Professional plumbers have the knowledge of experience, expertise, and the tools to deal with plumbing issues quickly and efficiently. If you attempt to fix a plumbing emergency yourself can put your life and safety at risk.

These are signs that you may require professional help

Signs that suggest you require professional assistance include an abrupt increase in your water bill or a decline in water quality, and the inability to fix the problem yourself.

What can you expect to find out when you reach out to get help

If you contact a professional plumber, you can expect prompt response as well as a thorough analysis of the problem, and an upfront cost estimate.

Prevention Tips

Regular maintenance of plumbing

Regular maintenance of plumbing can reduce the risk of plumbing problems through a quick identification and fix of small issues before they become larger ones.

Simple steps to avoid plumbing problems that are common

Simple ways to prevent common plumbing problems include using drain screens, refraining from pouring grease down drains, and avoiding flushing non-flushable items in the toilet.

When is the best time to schedule plumbing inspections

Conduct plumbing inspections each year or bi-annually to identify and address potential issues before they become emergencies.

Conclusion

Plumbing emergencies can be difficult and expensive, however addressing them quickly and efficiently can reduce the harm and keep your family safe. Make sure to contact an expert plumber in case you require assistance, and to adopt preventive measures to avoid common plumbing problems. By following these tips will ensure that your plumbing system is running smoothly and avoid stress and expense in the event of an emergency. If you’re facing a plumbing emergency, don’t hesitate to call North West 24 Hour Plumber at 1300 935 407. The team we have of trained and skilled plumbers is on call 24/7 to assist you in any plumbing emergency you’re facing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How should I proceed in case of a plumbing emergency?

If you experience a plumbing emergency, turn off your main supply of water immediately and call a professional plumber.

Can I solve a plumbing issue by myself?

It is not advised to attempt and fix a plumbing emergency by yourself. This could put your health and your property in danger. It’s best to call an experienced plumber for help.

What do I know about when I should call for professional help?

Signs that you require professional assistance include an abrupt increase in water bills, a decrease in water quality, and the inability to fix the problem by yourself.

How can I prevent plumbing emergencies from happening?

It is possible to prevent 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 annually or bi-annually.

What do I be looking for in a professional plumber?

Choose a reputable plumber who is licensed, insured and experienced. They also have a good reputation.

How much does it cost to employ an experienced plumber?

Cost of employing a professional plumber will vary based on the nature of the emergency and the extent of damage. Call North West 24 Hour Plumber for an upfront cost estimate.