Plumbing Emergency? What to Do Before the Plumber Arrives

Step 1: Shut off the water

If water is coming from a supply line, a fixture or a water heater, turn off the water. For a single fixture, use the small shutoff valve under it. For anything bigger, close your home’s main shutoff valve.

In most Florida homes the main shutoff is near where the water line enters the house, often on an outside wall near the front or side, or in the garage. Some homes only have the valve at the meter box by the street, which usually needs a meter key.

Step 2: Deal with electricity safely

If water is near outlets, appliances or the electrical panel, keep everyone away. Only turn off breakers if you can reach the panel without standing in water.

Step 3: Stop using the drains if sewage is backing up

If sewage is coming up through a tub, shower or floor drain, stop running water and flushing toilets. Every gallon you send down has nowhere to go but back up. Keep children and pets away from wastewater.

Step 4: Turn off the water heater if it’s leaking

For an electric water heater, switch off its breaker. For gas, turn the control to “off” or “pilot”. Then close the cold-water valve on top of the heater.

Step 5: Limit the damage and document it

Move furniture, rugs and electronics out of the water. Use towels or a wet vac on standing water. Take photos and video before cleanup, because your insurance company will want them.

• Photos of the source of the leak
• Photos of affected floors, walls and belongings
• The time you discovered the problem

When to call a 24/7 plumber

Call right away for burst pipes, leaks you can’t stop, sewage backups, a leaking water heater or a home with no water. Five Star Plumbing answers 24/7 across Clearwater and Pinellas County at (727) 282-4323.