Plumbing emergencies don’t wait for a convenient time to strike. It’s always when you’re about to leave for work, during a holiday dinner, or right before bed. Suddenly, you’ve got a burst pipe flooding your kitchen or a toilet that won’t stop overflowing, and now your peaceful home feels like a water park gone wrong.
Sound familiar?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Homeowners in San Antonio face their fair share of plumbing chaos, and knowing what to do in those first few moments can make all the difference. Acting fast and smart during a plumbing emergency can prevent severe damage, save money, and control stress levels.
That’s why we’ve put together this simple, helpful guide to walk you through what to do and when to call the pros at JC Enriquez Plumbing, San Antonio’s trusted name in emergency plumbing since 1968.
1. Shut Off the Water Immediately
This is the first step in every plumbing emergency. If water is spilling, gushing, or leaking, your first move should always be to shut off the water supply. You’ll need to look for a shut-off valve nearby for a toilet or faucet. For bigger problems, like a burst pipe, you’ll need to shut off the main water valve to your house.
It’s worth taking a few minutes now, before an emergency, to locate that main valve and make sure everyone in the household knows where it is.
And if the situation slips out of your hands, call JC Enriquez Plumbing so we can assess the damage and get rapid repairs.
2. Turn Off Your Water Heater
In major leaks or pipe bursts, your water heater could become damaged or even dangerous if not shut off. If you’ve turned off the main water supply, it’s a good idea to turn off your water heater to avoid pressure buildup or overheating.
For electric heaters, switch off the breaker. For gas heaters, turn off the gas valve.
Need help? JC Enriquez Plumbing can immediately send a technician to handle your plumbing emergency in San Antonio.
3. Tackle Small Leaks with Towels or Buckets
If you spot a small drip or a leak that isn’t causing major flooding, try to contain it as best you can. Use towels, rags, buckets, or pans to catch the water and protect nearby flooring or furniture. Take photos for insurance if necessary, and note where the leak is coming from.
But remember, just because a leak seems small doesn’t mean it’s harmless. Hidden damage could still be happening behind the walls or under your floors.
JC Enriquez Plumbing will inspect the source of the leak and provide a long-term fix, not just a temporary patch.
4. Avoid Using Chemical Drain Cleaners
When a drain backs up during an emergency, the instinct to grab a chemical drain cleaner can be intense. But those harsh chemicals can damage your pipes, especially if you need professional tools to clear the clog later. Plus, they rarely work on the bigger blockages that cause true plumbing emergencies.
A plunger may help in a pinch, but when in doubt, skip the chemicals and wait for the pros.
JC Enriquez Plumbing has all the tools and techniques to unclog your drains without damaging your pipes.
5. Know What’s an Emergency and What Can Wait
Not all plumbing issues require midnight panic. A dripping faucet or a slow drain can often wait until regular business hours. However, situations like a burst pipe, overflowing toilet, sewage backup, or water heater failure qualify as emergencies.
When in doubt, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Emergency plumbers exist for a reason: fast action prevents severe damage.
Looking for expert plumbing services? JC Enriquez Plumbing offers trusted and reliable 24/7 emergency plumbing service in San Antonio.
6. Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs Before a Disaster
The best way to handle a plumbing emergency is to avoid one altogether. Pay attention to the little red flags, like slow drains, strange smells, gurgling pipes, or inconsistent water pressure. These could all be early signs of a bigger problem in the making.
Routine inspections and maintenance are your best defense.
JC Enriquez Plumbing offers annual plumbing check-ups and can catch issues before they spiral into emergencies.
A plumbing emergency is never fun, but with the right steps and the correct plumber, it doesn’t have to be a disaster. Remember to act fast, protect your home, and seek help when needed. Whether it’s a burst pipe at midnight or a blocked drain on a Sunday morning, the best move you can make is to call a professional.
If you are facing a plumbing emergency in San Antonio, call JC Enriquez Plumbing for 24/7 service. We are here to help you through all your plumbing issues, day or night, rain or shine!