Emergency Plumbing
Guide
Plumbing emergencies happen fast. Knowing what to do in the first five minutes can be the difference between a manageable repair and a catastrophic loss. Here is your step-by-step guide for every common plumbing emergency.
Know Your Shutoffs — Before You Need Them
The single most important thing you can do right now — before any emergency — is locate your main water shutoff. In a burst pipe situation, every second you spend looking for the shutoff is more water in your home.
- Main water shutoff: typically near the water meter, in the basement, or in a utility closet
- Water heater shutoff: cold water supply valve on top of the unit
- Toilet shutoff: oval valve on the wall behind the toilet
- Sink shutoff: oval valves under the sink (hot and cold)
- Well pump shutoff: circuit breaker in your electrical panel (labeled "well pump")
- Gas shutoff: lever on the gas meter outside your home
Emergency Response Guide by Situation
Burst Pipe
CRITICALShut off the main water supply immediately. Then call a plumber. Every minute counts — a burst 3/4" pipe can release 50+ gallons per minute.
Sewage Backup
CRITICALStop using all water and drains immediately. Do not flush toilets. Sewage backup is a health hazard — call a plumber right away. Do not attempt to clean up sewage yourself without proper protective equipment.
No Water (Well)
URGENTCheck your circuit breaker first — the pump breaker may have tripped. If the breaker is fine, check the pressure switch. If neither resolves it, call a plumber. A well pump failure is a same-day emergency.
Gas Leak
CRITICALLeave the building immediately. Do not use any electrical switches, phones, or open flames. Call 911 and your gas company from outside. Do not re-enter until cleared by emergency services.
Water Heater Leaking
URGENTTurn off the cold water supply to the water heater (valve on top of the unit). For gas heaters, turn the thermostat to "pilot." For electric, turn off the breaker. Call a plumber — a leaking water heater tank cannot be repaired.
Overflowing Toilet
MODERATERemove the tank lid and push the flapper down to stop water flow. Turn off the shutoff valve behind the toilet. Do not flush again. Call a plumber if a plunger does not clear the clog.
Frozen Pipe
URGENTShut off the main water supply before attempting to thaw. Apply heat with a hair dryer — never an open flame. If you cannot locate the frozen section, call a plumber.
Sump Pump Failure During Storm
URGENTIf your sump pump fails during heavy rain, water will enter your basement quickly. Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove water while you wait for help. Call a plumber immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a plumbing emergency?
A plumbing emergency is any situation that poses an immediate risk to your home, health, or safety — burst pipes, sewage backup, gas leaks, no water, flooding, or a water heater that is actively leaking. If you are unsure, call us — we would rather talk you through a non-emergency than have you wait on a real one.
How fast can Deep Dive Plumbing Maryland respond to an emergency?
We respond to plumbing emergencies throughout Calvert and Anne Arundel County 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Response time varies by location and time of day, but we prioritize true emergencies — burst pipes, no water, sewage backup — and aim to be on site within 1–2 hours.
What should I do while waiting for the plumber?
For water emergencies: shut off the water supply to stop the flow. Move valuables away from the affected area. Take photos for insurance purposes. For sewage backup: stop using all drains and toilets. For gas leaks: leave the building and call 911.
Is there an extra charge for emergency plumbing calls?
Emergency calls outside of normal business hours may carry an after-hours service fee. We are transparent about pricing before we start any work — you will know the cost before we begin.
Plumbing Emergency? Call Now.
Deep Dive Plumbing Maryland responds 24/7 throughout Calvert and Anne Arundel County. Woman-owned, licensed master plumber.
(443) 440-0632Emergency Plumbing Services
Frequently Asked Questions