Plumbing emergency? What to do before the plumber arrives

Step 1: Stop the water

• Single fixture (toilet, sink, washer): turn the small valve behind or under it clockwise.
• Burst pipe or unknown source: shut off the main water valve. Turn it clockwise (or a quarter turn for a lever valve) until it stops.

Find your main shut-off before you need it, and make sure everyone in the house knows where it is.

Step 2: Make it safe

• If water is near outlets, cords, or appliances, turn off power at the breaker for that area, but only if you can reach the panel without standing in water.
• For a leaking water heater, turn off the cold-water supply valve on top and switch off the power (electric) or set the gas valve to “pilot” or “off.”

Step 3: Relieve the pressure

Open the lowest faucet in the house (and an outdoor spigot) to drain water left in the pipes.

Step 4: Limit the damage

• Move furniture, rugs, electronics, and valuables out of the area.
• Mop up standing water and run fans or a dehumidifier.
• Put a bucket under slow drips.

Step 5: Document it

Take photos and video of the damage and the source before cleanup goes too far. Your insurer will want them.

Step 6: Call a plumber

Describe what happened, what you have shut off, and whether water is still flowing. After-hours calls cost more, so if the water is off and the situation is stable, ask whether it can wait until regular hours.

Preventing the next one

• Insulate pipes in unheated spaces and disconnect hoses before freezing weather.
• Replace washing machine hoses every five years (braided steel lasts longer).
• Don’t pour grease down drains.
• Consider water leak sensors or an automatic shut-off valve.