A Homeowner's Guide to Plumbing Disasters: Identifying Them and When to Get in Touch with Inner West 24 Hour Plumber in Inner West

Posted by Inner West 24 Hour Plumber on 8 Dec 2025

Plumbing emergencies can be homeowners’ worst nightmare. Pipes that burst, blocked drains, leaking fixtures, and gas leaks can cause serious damage to your property and put your family’s security at risk.

It is crucial to deal with these emergencies quickly and efficiently to minimize the harm and ensure that your home is secure. This article will discuss the most common kinds of plumbing emergencies, and what you should do in the event of an emergency.

Common Plumbing Emergencies

Pipes Burst Pipes

What causes burst pipes?

Burst pipes are usually caused by cold temperatures, old pipes or high pressure water.

The signs of bursting pipes

The signs of a burst pipe include low pressure in the water, odd noises emanating from pipes wet spots on walls or ceilings, and a decline in the quality of water.

What should you do in the event of a pipe burst

If you suspect the possibility of a burst pipe, turn off your main supply of water immediately , and contact a professional plumber.

Clogged Drains

The causes of blocked drains

Clogged drains are typically caused by buildup of hair, soap scum, and other debris that has accumulated in pipes.

Signs of blocked drains

The signs of a blocked drain are slow draining water, gurgling noises coming from pipes, as well as unpleasant odors.

What to do in case of a blocked drain

Try using a plunger or drain snake to clear the drain. If none of these solutions work, call a professional plumber.

Leaking Fixtures

The causes of leaky fixtures

Leaking fixtures are often caused by worn or damaged components.

Evidence of fixtures that are leaking

Signs of leaking fixtures include drips, damp spots on ceilings or walls, and a sudden rise in the cost of water.

What to do in case of a leaking fixture

Try tightening any loose connections or replacing damaged parts. If this doesn’t solve the issue, contact an experienced plumber.

Gas Leaks

Gas leaks are caused by a variety of reasons.

Gas leaks are often caused by damaged pipes or faulty gas appliances.

Gas leaks are a sign of trouble.

The signs of gas leaks include whistling or hissing sound close to the gas appliance, or a musty egg smell, and dizziness or headaches.

What should you do in the event of an gas leak

If you suspect a gas leak, leave your home immediately and contact an expert plumber.

When to Call for Professional Help

The importance of calling a professional plumber

Professional plumbers have the expertise skills, experience and tools to deal with plumbing issues quickly and efficiently. Trying to fix the plumbing issue yourself can put your safety and property at risk.

The signs that suggest you require professional assistance

Signs that you require professional help include a sudden increase in your water bill or a decline in the quality of water and the inability to fix the problem by yourself.

What should you expect when you reach out for assistance

When you reach out to a professional plumber, you can expect prompt response and a thorough evaluation of the problem, as well as an estimate of the cost upfront.

Prevention Tips

Regular plumbing maintenance

Regularly scheduled maintenance on plumbing can help prevent plumbing emergencies in identifying small problems before they turn into bigger ones.

Simple steps to avoid common plumbing problems

Simple steps to avoid common plumbing problems include using drain screens, not pouring grease down drains and avoiding flushing things that aren’t flushable in the toilet.

When should you schedule plumbing inspections?

Plan plumbing inspections every year or bi-annually to identify and address potential issues before they turn into emergencies.

Conclusion

plumbing emergencies are stressful and expensive, but dealing with them swiftly and effectively can minimize the damage and protect your family. Make sure to contact an experienced plumber for assistance, and to make preventive steps to avoid the most common plumbing issues. If you follow these guidelines, you can ensure that your plumbing system is running smoothly, and you can avoid expensive and stressful situations. If you’re in the middle of a plumbing emergency Do not hesitate to call Inner West 24 Hour Plumber at 1300 948 565. The team we have of trained and skilled plumbers is available 24/7 to assist you with any emergency you may be experiencing.

Most Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What can I do in the event of a plumbing emergency?

If you experience a plumbing emergency, turn off water to the mains immediately , and contact an experienced plumber.

Can I solve a plumbing issue myself?

It is not advised to attempt to fix a plumbing issue by yourself. This can put your safety and your property in danger. It is recommended to contact an experienced plumber to help.

How do I know when to reach out for professional help?

Signs that you require professional assistance include an abrupt rise in your water bills, a decrease in the quality of water and the inability to solve the issue yourself.

What can I do to prevent the possibility of plumbing problems?

You can avoid plumbing emergencies from happening by scheduling regular maintenance for your plumbing, taking simple steps to avoid typical plumbing issues and scheduling plumbing inspections annually or bi-annually.

What do I be looking for in a professional plumber?

Choose a reputable plumber who is insured, licensed skilled, knowledgeable, and has an excellent reputation.

How much does it cost to employ a professional plumber?

The cost of hiring an experienced plumber is contingent upon the nature of the emergency and the extent of the damage. Call Inner West 24 Hour Plumber for an upfront cost estimate.