A burst pipe. An overflowing toilet. A flooded basement. Plumbing emergencies can strike without warning and cause major damage in a matter of minutes. While not every issue can be avoided, many common plumbing disasters are preventable with a little proactive care. Here are smart steps every homeowner can take to reduce the risk of plumbing emergencies — and when it’s time to bring in the pros.
1. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is
In an emergency, every second counts. If a pipe bursts or a major leak occurs, shutting off your home’s main water supply can stop the damage. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the shut-off valve is and how to operate it. This simple knowledge could save you thousands in water damage repairs.
2. Don’t Ignore Small Leaks
That slow drip from your faucet or the occasional puddle under the sink may not seem urgent, but it’s a red flag. Small leaks often signal worn-out washers, faulty valves, or pressure issues. Left alone, they can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and skyrocketing water bills. At Courtesy Plumbing, we recommend fixing leaks as soon as they’re noticed — not when they’ve already caused damage.
3. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain
Many plumbing problems stem from what gets flushed or rinsed down your drains:
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Never pour grease or oil down the kitchen sink
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Use drain screens to catch hair and food particles
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Avoid flushing wipes (even “flushable” ones), paper towels, and hygiene products
These materials don’t break down easily and can clog pipes, leading to backups and overflows.
4. Insulate Exposed Pipes in Winter
Frozen pipes are a leading cause of winter plumbing emergencies. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands — putting enormous pressure on the pipe walls. Insulate any exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, attics, or exterior walls, and keep cabinet doors open during cold snaps to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
5. Schedule Preventive Plumbing Inspections
A professional plumbing inspection can identify worn-out components, early-stage leaks, or buildup inside your drains long before they cause a crisis. Annual inspections from a trusted plumber can save you from bigger — and more expensive — issues down the line.
6. Install a Sump Pump (and Maintain It)
If your home is prone to basement flooding or has poor drainage, a sump pump can be your first line of defense. But like any appliance, it needs regular testing and occasional maintenance. Don’t wait until a storm hits to find out your pump isn’t working.
Call Courtesy Plumbing Before It Becomes an Emergency
Sometimes plumbing emergencies are unavoidable — but many can be prevented with smart habits and regular checkups. If you’re concerned about the condition of your plumbing or want to schedule a maintenance inspection, Courtesy Plumbing is here to help. We offer fast, reliable service with honest recommendations you can trust.
