Plumbing Emergency? 7 Things Calgary Homeowners Should Do Before the Plumber Arrives
Burst pipe.
Overflowing toilet.
Leaking hot water tank.
Sewer backup.
Plumbing emergencies have a habit of happening when you least want them to.
Knowing what to do during the first few minutes can help you protect your home while you wait for professional help.
Here are seven things every Calgary homeowner should know.
1. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Is
Do you know where the main water shut-off valve is in your home?
If not, find it before you need it.
When a pressurized water line breaks, shutting off the home’s water supply can dramatically limit the amount of additional water entering the house.
Every adult in the household should know where the valve is and how to operate it.
2. Shut Off the Closest Fixture First, If Possible
Not every plumbing emergency requires turning off water to the entire house.
Many fixtures have individual shut-off valves.
You may find valves at:
- Toilets
- Sinks
- Washing machines
- Some appliances
- Water heaters
If you can safely isolate the affected fixture, you may be able to maintain water service to the rest of the house.
3. Protect the Area From Additional Damage
Once the water is controlled, start limiting damage.
Depending on the situation:
- Move furniture and belongings
- Place containers beneath dripping water
- Use towels to control smaller amounts of water
- Keep people away from contaminated water
- Protect nearby finished materials where practical
Do not put yourself at risk to save property.
4. Be Extremely Careful Around Electricity
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination.
If water is near electrical panels, outlets, appliances or wiring, do not enter the affected area unless you know it is safe.
When there is any doubt, stay away and contact the appropriate emergency professional.
5. Stop Using Plumbing Fixtures During a Sewer Backup
If you suspect the main drainage or sewer system is backing up, stop adding more water to the system.
That means temporarily avoiding:
- Flushing toilets
- Running taps
- Showering
- Running the dishwasher
- Running the washing machine
Continuing to discharge water can make the backup worse.
6. Take Photos Once the Immediate Situation Is Controlled
If the emergency has caused property damage, photographs can help document what happened.
Capture the affected plumbing, surrounding area and visible damage once it is safe to do so.
You may need that documentation later when speaking with your insurer or contractors.
7. Call a Professional Plumber
Once you have taken reasonable steps to stop additional damage, call a qualified plumber.
When you call, be prepared to explain:
- What happened
- Where the problem is located
- Whether the water has been shut off
- Whether there is active flooding
- Whether sewage is involved
- What plumbing fixtures are affected
The more information you can provide, the easier it is to understand the urgency of the situation.
Do Not Wait for an Emergency to Prepare
There are two things you can do today that cost nothing:
Find your main water shut-off valve.
Save your plumber’s phone number.
If something happens at 2 a.m., you will be glad you did both.
Hansen Plumbing provides residential plumbing service throughout Calgary and has been helping Calgary homeowners since 1979.
For urgent plumbing problems, call Hansen Plumbing’s 24/7 emergency line at 403-248-2996.
For homeowners in Mayland Heights and throughout Calgary:
Honest. Fair. Reliable.
