5 Most Common Plumbing Emergencies (And What to Do Before Help Arrives)

When a pipe bursts or a toilet overflows, panic sets in fast. But the truth is, most plumbing emergencies can be managed—at least temporarily—until a professional arrives. Whether it's a middle-of-the-night leak or a weekend water heater failure, knowing what to do in the moment can save you stress, money, and major damage. In this blog, we’ll cover the most common plumbing emergencies DFW homeowners face, how to react safely, and why calling HAT Plumbing, Heating & Air is the smartest move you can make.

1. Burst Pipes

Frozen pipes in winter or worn-out pipes under pressure can burst without warning. The result? Rapid water flooding that can destroy floors, walls, and belongings.

What to do:

• Shut off the main water valve immediately
• Open nearby faucets to relieve pressure
• Call for emergency plumbing repair
• Remove any valuables from the affected area

We provide fast-response service for burst pipes and will assess if repiping is needed.

2. Overflowing Toilet

Toilets can overflow due to clogs, tank malfunctions, or septic issues—and fast action is key to avoiding messy water damage.

What to do:

• Turn off the water valve behind the toilet
• Avoid flushing again
• Try a plunger if the issue is visible
• Contact HAT Plumbing if it continues or recurs

We fix clogs, replace faulty parts, and inspect for deeper drain problems.

3. Major Water Leaks

Leaks under sinks, behind walls, or from appliances can lead to mold, foundation damage, or ruined cabinetry if not addressed.

What to do:

• Turn off water to the leaking fixture or the main shutoff
• Place a bucket or towel to catch water
• Avoid using that area until repaired
• Call for expert leak detection and repair

Our team uses advanced tools to find hidden leaks and provide long-term fixes.

4. Water Heater Failure

No hot water? Leaking tank? Strange noises? These are all signs of a failing water heater—a problem that affects comfort and efficiency.

What to do:

• Turn off power (electric switch or gas supply) to the unit
• Shut off the cold-water valve leading to the tank
• Call us immediately for water heater repair or replacement

We handle both standard and tankless units, with same-day service when possible.

5. Clogged Drains That Won’t Clear

A single clogged drain may not feel urgent—but when multiple fixtures back up or water drains slowly throughout the home, it could be a main sewer line issue.

What to do:

• Stop using sinks or toilets in the home
• Avoid chemical drain cleaners
• Contact HAT Plumbing for professional drain cleaning or sewer inspection

We’ll assess whether it’s a simple clog or a sign of deeper pipe trouble.

Why Trust HAT Plumbing in an Emergency?

Plumbing problems don’t wait for business hours—and neither do we. With 15+ years of experience serving the DFW area, we provide:

• Fast, courteous emergency service
• Honest pricing with no upsells
• Licensed and insured technicians
• Full cleanup and follow-up after service

Our phones are always on, and our team always shows up ready to help.

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