Last updated: July 17, 2026
Key Takeaways
- The first step in any plumbing emergency is to locate and shut off your home's main water valve.
- After shutting off the supply, open faucets to drain remaining pressure, and avoid flushing if a sewer backup is involved.
- Sewer backups can spread contaminated water and create a health hazard, so skip DIY fixes and call a licensed plumber.
- Protect belongings from standing water and address water restoration promptly to prevent mold growth.
A plumbing emergency can strike when you least expect it—burst pipes, overflowing toilets, sewer backups, or sudden leaks. These situations are stressful, but knowing what to do in the first few minutes can make the difference between a quick fix and thousands of dollars in damage.
At A-Plus Priority Plumbing, we specialize in 24/7 emergency plumbing services, sewer cleaning in Austell GA, and drain pipe cleaning in Austell GA. Our team is here to respond quickly, but there are also crucial steps every homeowner should take before help arrives.
Here’s what you need to know.
What to do in a plumbing emergency:
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| Shut off the water | Close the main valve immediately |
| Drain remaining water | Clear taps and toilets to stop flooding |
| Call a licensed emergency plumber | Get a pro on the way |
| Protect your belongings | Move valuables away from the water |
| Discuss water restoration | Address damage and mold with restoration |
Step 1: Act Immediately and Shut Off the Water
The first step in any plumbing emergency is quick action. Locate and turn off your home’s main water shut-off valve to stop the flow of water. This simple step can drastically reduce flooding and water damage.
Step 2: Drain the Remaining Water
Once the main water supply is shut off, open all faucets and let the remaining water drain out of the pipes. This will relieve built-up pressure and minimize further leakage.
If the issue involves your sewer line, avoid flushing toilets or using sinks until a plumber arrives. Sewer backups can spread contaminated water into your home, creating a health hazard.
Step 3: Call a Licensed Emergency Plumber
Plumbing emergencies are not the time for DIY fixes. Temporary patches often make things worse and delay professional repair. Instead, call a licensed plumber right away.
At A-Plus Priority Plumbing, our technicians are available 24/7 to handle:
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Burst or leaking pipes
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Sewer line blockages
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Overflowing toilets
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Emergency drain cleaning
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Water heater failures
We respond fast to stop the damage, repair the problem, and restore your home.
Step 4: Protect Your Belongings
While waiting for help, take steps to protect your valuables:
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Move furniture, rugs, and electronics away from affected areas.
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Use towels or buckets to contain minor leaks.
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Place foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to prevent water absorption.
Quick action here can save you from losing expensive household items.
Step 5: Discuss Water Restoration Services
Plumbing emergencies don’t always end once the leak is fixed. Standing water can damage floors, walls, and belongings while creating an environment for mold growth.
That’s why A-Plus Priority Plumbing also offers water restoration solutions, including:
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Water extraction
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Removal of unsalvageable materials
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Thorough cleaning and disinfection
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Odor removal and deodorizing
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Safe debris disposal
We go beyond repairs to ensure your home is clean, safe, and fully restored.
Why Professional Sewer & Drain Cleaning Matters
Many plumbing emergencies are caused by clogged drains or sewer backups. Regular maintenance can prevent these situations entirely.
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Sewer Cleaning in Austell GA: Removes grease, tree roots, and debris that block sewer lines.
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Drain Pipe Cleaning in Austell GA: Clears buildup in sinks, showers, and tubs before it becomes a full blockage.
By scheduling routine cleaning with A-Plus Priority Plumbing, you’ll reduce the risk of emergencies and extend the life of your plumbing system.
Final Thoughts
Plumbing emergencies are stressful, but knowing the right steps can help you stay in control. By shutting off the water, draining pipes, calling professionals, and protecting your valuables, you can reduce damage and restore peace of mind.
At A-Plus Priority Plumbing, we’ve been serving Georgia homeowners for over 50 years with 24/7 emergency plumbing, sewer cleaning in Austell GA, and reliable drain pipe cleaning in Austell GA.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first thing to do in a plumbing emergency?
The first thing to do in a plumbing emergency is shut off the water at the fixture or main valve to stop flooding. Then turn off the water heater if the main supply is off and call a plumber.
How do you stop water during a burst pipe?
To stop water from a burst pipe, close the main shutoff valve, then open faucets to drain the remaining water and relieve pressure. Acting fast minimizes flooding and water damage.
Should you turn off electricity during a plumbing emergency?
Yes, you should turn off electricity to any area where water is near outlets, appliances, or the panel. Safety comes first, so avoid standing water around electrical sources until it is safe.
When should you call a professional during a plumbing emergency?
You should call a professional immediately for burst pipes, sewage backups, major leaks, or no water. Quick professional help limits damage and resolves the underlying problem safely.
Because sewer backups can introduce contaminated water, the CDC guidance on standing and contaminated floodwater outlines the health risks to avoid.
Ray White is the owner and operator of A Plus Priority Plumbing, bringing over 30 years of hands-on experience in the plumbing industry. He provides reliable residential and commercial plumbing services to homes and businesses throughout Greater Atlanta, Georgia, and surrounding areas, with a focus on emergency service and fair, affordable pricing.
