A plumbing emergency can strike at any time—burst pipes, overflowing toilets, or sudden leaks can leave you feeling stressed and scrambling for a solution. While your first step should always be to call a trusted plumber, knowing what to do during a plumbing emergency in MD can help you minimize damage and protect your home until professional help arrives.
At Mallick Plumbing & Heating, we want Maryland homeowners to feel empowered, not panicked, when a plumbing issue hits. Here are the essential steps to take in a plumbing emergency before our team gets there.
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
This is the most important step. For leaks, burst pipes, or overflowing fixtures, shutting off the water supply stops the flow and helps prevent further damage.
- For isolated issues (like a leaking toilet or sink), turn off the valve located directly behind or beneath the fixture.
- For larger emergencies or if you’re unsure of the source, shut off the main water valve to your home. This is typically located in the basement, utility room, or near the perimeter of your home.
2. Shut Off Your Water Heater (If Necessary)
If you suspect a major leak near or involving your water heater, it’s a good idea to shut off the heater to prevent damage or even a burst tank. For electric heaters, turn off the breaker in your electrical panel. For gas heaters, switch the gas valve to the “off” position.
3. Address Small Leaks with Temporary Fixes
While you wait for the plumber, small leaks can often be contained:
- Place a bucket under the leak to catch water
- Use towels or rags to soak up water around the area
- For pipe leaks, you can wrap the area in waterproof tape or use a pipe clamp as a short-term fix
These temporary solutions won’t last long, but they can reduce damage and give your plumber a head start on the repair.
4. Clear the Area to Prevent Further Damage
Move furniture, rugs, or electronics away from any standing water or damp areas. This prevents further damage to your belongings and allows your plumber quicker access to the source of the problem.
5. Avoid Using Drains or Fixtures
If you’re dealing with a backup or suspect a sewer line issue, avoid using sinks, showers, or toilets. Continued use can worsen the problem or cause additional flooding. Instead, wait for a professional evaluation to prevent cross-contamination or bigger messes.
6. Stay Calm and Call Mallick Plumbing & Heating
Once you’ve handled the immediate situation, call in the pros. The team at Mallick Plumbing & Heating has years of experience responding to plumbing emergencies across Maryland. We’ll walk you through any immediate safety steps, dispatch a technician quickly, and restore your plumbing system as soon as possible.
Knowing what to do during a plumbing emergency in MD can make a huge difference in reducing damage and repair costs. But the most important step is calling a licensed professional to ensure the problem is handled safely and correctly.
Stay Prepared with Plumbing Tips and Reliable Help
Emergencies happen, but when you know the steps to take in a plumbing emergency, you can act fast and protect your home. Consider keeping an emergency plumbing kit on hand with essentials like a pipe wrench, plumber’s tape, and absorbent towels.
For even more peace of mind, schedule regular maintenance with Mallick Plumbing & Heating to catch issues before they become emergencies. Check out our current specials to save on services.
When disaster strikes, trust Mallick Plumbing to be there for you—fast, professional, and ready to help Maryland homeowners when they need it most.