When plumbing emergencies strike, knowing how to respond quickly can save you thousands in water damage and repairs. At Fred’s Plumbing, HVAC, Electrical, and Underground, we’ve seen it all – and we’re here to help you tackle these common emergencies until our professionals can arrive.

1. Burst Pipes

A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water into your home within hours, causing extensive damage.

Immediate Actions:

• Shut off your home’s main water valve immediately
• Open faucets to drain remaining water from pipes
• Document the damage with photos for insurance
• Remove valuable items from the affected area

Prevention Tips:

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas
• Let faucets drip during freezing weather
• Keep your home heated to at least 55°F, even when away

2. Overflowing Toilet

Not only messy but potentially hazardous to your health.

Immediate Actions:

• Locate the shutoff valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise
• Remove the tank lid and lift the float to stop water flow
• Clean up any overflow using proper sanitation methods

Prevention Tips:

• Never flush non-degradable items
• Keep a plunger nearby
• Consider installing a more powerful toilet if clogs are frequent

3. Water Heater Failure

Cold showers are the least of your worries when your water heater fails.
Immediate Actions:

• If you notice leaking, shut off the water supply to the heater
• Turn off the power supply (gas or electric)
• Drain the tank if possible to prevent further damage

Prevention Tips:

• Schedule annual maintenance checks
• Replace your water heater every 8-12 years
• Listen for unusual noises that might indicate sediment buildup

4. Major Drain Clog

When multiple drains back up simultaneously, you might have a main line clog.

Immediate Actions:

• Stop using all water in the house
• Check your cleanout line outside for overflow
• Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, which can damage pipes

Prevention Tips:

• Be mindful of what goes down your drains
• Install drain strainers in all sinks and showers
• Schedule regular drain cleaning maintenance

5. Sump Pump Failure

During heavy rains, a failed sump pump can lead to basement flooding.

Immediate Actions:

• Check if it’s plugged in or if a circuit breaker has tripped
• Ensure the float switch isn’t stuck
• Remove valuable items from the basement
• Use a backup pump or wet vacuum if available

Prevention Tips:

• Test your sump pump regularly
• Install a battery backup system
• Consider a water-powered backup pump

When to Call Fred’s

While these immediate actions can help minimize damage, some situations require professional expertise. Call us immediately if:

• You can’t locate the shutoff valve
• There’s a risk of sewage backup
• Electrical outlets are near standing water
• You smell gas
• Multiple fixtures are affected

Our emergency response team is available 24/7 at 217-356-9400 to handle any plumbing crisis. We arrive quickly, diagnose accurately, and solve your emergency efficiently.

Be Prepared

Create an emergency plumbing kit containing:

• Adjustable wrench
• Bucket
• Plunger
• Plumber’s tape
• Our emergency number: 217-356-9400

Our Promise

At Fred’s Plumbing, HVAC, Electrical, and Underground, we understand that plumbing emergencies don’t wait for convenient hours. That’s why we don’t just fix the immediate problem – we work to prevent future issues and give you peace of mind. Remember, the best emergency is the one that never happens. Schedule your preventive maintenance check today and let our experts help you avoid these common plumbing emergencies.