Emergency Plumber in Exeter: What to Do When a Plumbing Disaster Strikes
Plumbing emergencies always seem to happen at the worst possible time—whether it’s a boiler failure during a cold period or a burst pipe in the middle of the night.
When disaster strikes, your first instinct might be panic, but staying calm and acting decisively can help massively to minimise the damage.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the crucial steps to take while waiting for help, and explain why it’s important to choose a local, experienced professional when dealing with plumbing issues. Our team of specialists are available on 01392 712828 if you need urgent care.
Why Choose a Local Emergency Plumber in Exeter?
There are many benefits to hiring a local, experienced emergency plumber in Exeter. Here are a few key reasons:
Faster Response Times
Our team is based across Exeter and Devon, and can get to you faster than companies from further away, giving you a much better chance of containing the damage.
Expertise in Local Water Systems
Every area has unique plumbing challenges. Our team is familiar with the specific water systems, regulations, and common issues in Exeter and Devon, allowing us to provide tailored solutions for you.
Community Reputation
Our reputation has been built from a team with decades of experience. When using a local emergency plumber in Devon, you know that reputation is everything, and can only be built with trusted expertise.
Cost-Effective
With a local plumber, you’re more likely to avoid unnecessary call-out fees and delays. We’re dedicated to providing value for our community, so you can expect high-quality, trusted service at a reasonable price.
What to do in a plumbing emergency?
Shut Off the Water Supply
The very first thing you should do when you discover a plumbing emergency is to shut off the water supply. In most homes, the water main can be found in the basement, under the kitchen sink, or near the water meter. Shutting off the water will stop the flow and prevent further flooding or water damage from occurring. If you’re unsure where the shutoff valve is, take a moment to locate it before an emergency strikes—being prepared can save valuable time.
Turn Off the Heating System (If Applicable)
If your emergency involves a boiler or heating system failure, switch off the heating as soon as possible. A faulty or damaged boiler can cause further issues, such as leaks or even electrical problems. Turning it off will help to avoid escalating the problem while waiting for your emergency plumber in Exeter to arrive.
Try to Identify the Issue
Once the water is turned off, try to identify where the problem is coming from. There are a number of things you can do to try and identify the source of the problem:
Check for Visible Leaks or Puddles
If water is pooling in one area, it’s likely due to a burst pipe or a loose connection. Pay attention to areas where you notice water gathering, such as under sinks, near the water heater, or along walls. If you notice dampness or water stains on the ceiling, walls, or floorboards, this could indicate a hidden leak or a burst pipe inside the wall.
Listen for unusual sounds
If you hear a hissing sound or consistent dripping coming from a pipe, this is a strong indicator of a leak. However, unusual sounds in your drains, such as gurgling or bubbling noises, might suggest a blockage somewhere in the pipes or the sewer line.
Examine your water pressure and temperature
If there’s no water coming out of your taps or shower, there may be a major pipe burst or blockage, or a failure with your water supply system. A sudden drop in water pressure could also suggest a blockage or water supply failure.
Also, be aware of extreme water temperatures, indicating a problem with the water heater or water systems.
Check the toilets and drains
If the toilet is overflowing or draining slowly, it could be due to a blockage in the drain pipe. It might also suggest a problem with the sewer line. Water pooling around the drain in your sink or shower might be a sign of a blockage. If there’s a bad smell, this could indicate a build-up of waste or debris in the pipes.
Smell of gas or sewage odours
If you detect a strong gas smell near your boiler or water heater, it could be a sign of a gas leak. This requires immediate attention—turn off the gas supply and call a professional emergency plumber or gas engineer right away. If you notice a foul, sewage-like smell, it may be a sign of a blocked drain or an issue with the septic system. This could lead to wastewater backing up into your home if not addressed quickly.
Faulty boiler or heating systems
If your heating system or boiler isn’t working properly, it could be due to a number of issues, such as a broken pump, low pressure, or a gas supply problem. If there’s water pooling near your boiler, it could indicate a faulty valve or a leak in the system. Always turn off the boiler and water supply immediately to prevent further damage.
Corroded or frozen pipes
Check your pipes, as signs of rust, corrosion or scaling can weaken them, leading to leaks or bursts. If you live in a cold area, pipes in uninsulated regions (attics, basements, etc) can often cause bursting. If you notice no water flow in specific taps, it could be a sign of this.
While it may not always be easy to spot the exact cause, understanding the source of the problem can help your plumber diagnose and fix the issue faster. If you’re unsure, don’t worry—just make note of what you’ve observed and let the professionals take over when they arrive.
Contain the Damage
If there’s water spilling or pooling in your home, or any of the potential signs we’ve touched on, the next priority is to minimise the damage. Use towels, mops, or buckets to soak up as much water as you can. If there’s a lot of water or it’s leaking through walls, it may help to move furniture or valuables away from the affected area. The quicker you can contain the water, the less likely it is that you’ll experience long-term damage to your property.
Avoid DIY Fixes (Unless You’re Qualified)
While it’s tempting to try and fix a plumbing issue yourself, especially when it’s an emergency, it’s important to remember that improper repairs can cause more harm than good. If you don’t have the necessary tools or expertise, it’s better to leave the job to a professional team. DIY fixes can lead to temporary solutions and may even void any warranties on your plumbing systems or insurance policies.
Contact an Emergency Plumber in Exeter
Once you’ve taken immediate action to reduce the damage, get in contact with our expert team. Choosing an emergency plumber in Exeter guarantees you will get rapid cover, as our team is familiar and experienced across the region.
At Wave Building Services, we pride ourselves on our prompt response times and professional expertise. Our team is equipped to handle a wide variety of plumbing emergencies, from burst pipes to malfunctioning boilers, and we know how important it is to resolve the issue swiftly to prevent further damage to your home.
If you have any other questions, visit our FAQs page or give us a call, and we’ll be on our way to resolve the issue quickly and efficiently.
Need an emergency plumber in Exeter? Don’t wait—contact Wave Building Services today for fast, reliable service, available on 01392 712828.
