Common Plumbing Emergencies and How to Handle Them | Eddyson Plumbing

Plumbing emergencies rarely announce themselves. A sudden burst pipe or sewer backup can turn an ordinary morning into a nightmare. Knowing what qualifies as an emergency and how to respond can minimize damage and keep your family safe. In this article we’ll discuss the most common emergencies seen by Eddyson Plumbing across Ashland, KY and southern Ohio, and provide actionable steps for each.

What makes an emergency?

Any plumbing situation that threatens to cause significant property damage, disrupt daily life or pose health/safety risks qualifies as an emergency. A clogged toilet is inconvenient; a toilet overflowing and spilling sewage into your home requires immediate assistance. Unchecked water flow can destroy flooring and drywall, while gas leaks can lead to fires or explosions. The key is to respond quickly and call a professional 24/7 plumber.

Burst pipes

Burst pipes are dramatic and destructive. They often occur during winter when water in pipes freezes and expands, splitting the pipe wall. Corrosion, old age and high water pressure also weaken pipes. If you hear a loud bang and see water spraying, shut off the main water valve immediately and open faucets to drain remaining water. Use towels or buckets to minimize damage and call Eddyson Plumbing. To prevent bursts, insulate exposed pipes, keep your thermostat consistent, and consider replacing old galvanized or polybutylene piping. The American Red Cross advises letting cold water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes, keeping cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate and maintaining the home’s thermostat at 55°F or above.

Overflowing toilets and clogged drains

Toilets overflow due to paper, wipes, toys or sewer line obstructions. If water keeps rising, turn off the water supply valve located behind the toilet. Avoid repeated flushing—this can exacerbate the overflow. Use a plunger to attempt to dislodge the blockage; if that fails, call a plumber. Multiple clogged drains or bubbling fixtures indicate a main sewer line problem, requiring professional snaking or hydro‑jetting.

No hot water and water heater failures

Waking up to a cold shower is unpleasant but not always an emergency. However, if the water heater is leaking, making loud noises or if the pilot light won’t stay lit, call a plumber. A leaking tank can burst and flood a basement, while a faulty pressure relief valve may cause scalding or explosions. Loss of hot water in the middle of winter can also endanger vulnerable family members. Eddyson Plumbing technicians can repair or replace water heaters and advise on energy‑efficient models like tankless heaters, which the Department of Energy notes can be 24–34% more energy efficient for households using less than 41 gallons a day.

Sump pump failure and flooding

Homes with basements in Ashland and southern Ohio rely on sump pumps to keep groundwater from flooding living spaces. During heavy storms or rapid snowmelt, a pump failure can lead to inches of water within hours. Common causes include power outages, stuck floats or clogged discharge lines. If your sump pump isn’t working, check the circuit breaker and ensure the pump is upright with a clear discharge pipe. Consider installing a battery backup system for power outages. Eddyson Plumbing offers sump pump maintenance, repairs and replacements to protect your basement.

Sewer backups

Raw sewage backing up into tubs or floor drains is one of the most dangerous plumbing emergencies. Patrick Riley Services lists warning signs such as foul sewer odors, gurgling toilets, backups and blockages, mold growth, sinking driveways or lush green patches over your sewer line. If you suspect a sewer line break, stop using plumbing fixtures, keep children and pets away and call an emergency plumber. Sewer water contains bacteria and viruses; professional protective equipment and proper disposal methods are crucial.

Gas leaks

Natural gas is odorless, but suppliers add a “rotten egg” scent (mercaptan) to help detect leaks. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, leave the building immediately, do not flip light switches or use electrical devices, and avoid open flames. Call your gas utility from a safe location and dial 911. Callahan’s Gas notes that gas leaks can result from damage, tree roots or corrosion. Licensed plumbers like Eddyson Plumbing are certified to repair gas lines, perform pressure tests and obtain permits. We follow state codes and ensure your system is safe before restoring service.

Frozen pipes

Kentucky and Ohio winters bring freezing temperatures. Pipes in unheated areas like garages, crawl spaces and exterior walls are vulnerable. To prevent freezing, the Red Cross advises keeping garage doors closed if there are water lines inside, opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to let warm air circulate, letting cold water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes, and keeping the thermostat set consistently day and night. If a pipe freezes, turn on the faucet and gently apply heat using an electric heating pad or hair dryer; never use a blowtorch. Contact a plumber if you can’t locate or thaw the pipe.

Conclusion

Plumbing emergencies can strike anytime, but you’re not alone. Eddyson Plumbing provides 24/7 emergency services throughout Ashland, Boyd County, and southern Ohio towns like Wheelersburg and South Point. By understanding the most common emergencies and taking immediate action, you can protect your property and loved ones. Program our number into your phone so you know who to call when every minute counts.