Plumbing emergencies don’t wait for convenient times—they strike in the middle of the night, during family gatherings, or just before you leave for work. Whether it’s a burst pipe, an overflowing toilet, or a sudden leak, knowing what to do before your plumber arrives can save you thousands in water damage.
At Sawyer Plumbing, we serve homeowners and businesses across Chester County, PA, including West Chester, Coatesville, Downingtown, Phoenixville, and more. Here’s what you should do right away during a plumbing emergency—before our licensed experts arrive on the scene.
🚨 1. Turn Off the Water Supply Immediately
This is the most important step in any plumbing emergency.
- For major leaks or burst pipes, shut off your home’s main water valve (usually near the water meter or where the main line enters the home).
- For localized issues like a leaking toilet or sink, shut off the fixture-specific valve—usually located beneath or behind the unit.
💡 Pro Tip: Familiarize yourself with your shutoff valves before an emergency happens.
🧼 2. Protect Your Property
If water is leaking or flooding:
- Move electronics, furniture, and valuables to a dry area.
- Use towels, buckets, or pans to catch dripping water.
- Open cabinets under sinks to allow air circulation and reduce mold growth.
⚡ 3. Shut Off Electricity (If Necessary)
If water is near electrical appliances, outlets, or breaker panels:
- Do NOT touch anything electrical if standing water is present.
- If safe, turn off electricity at the breaker box.
- Otherwise, wait for emergency services or your plumber to assess the situation.
🛠️ 4. Try Temporary Fixes (If Safe)
If you’re comfortable and it’s safe to do so:
- Apply plumber’s tape or a pipe clamp to slow down a leak.
- Use a plunger for clogged toilets or drains.
- Place a bucket under leaky pipes to minimize water damage.
⚠️ Only attempt these steps if you’re confident and not risking further damage or injury.
📸 5. Document the Damage
Take clear photos and videos of:
- The source of the problem
- Any visible water damage
- Affected furniture, floors, and walls
This documentation can be helpful for insurance claims or landlord communication.
📞 6. Call a Local Emergency Plumber in Chester County
The sooner you call, the faster the solution. At Sawyer Plumbing, we offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services across Chester County. We’re equipped to handle:
- Burst pipes
- Sewer backups
- Overflowing toilets
- Water heater leaks
- Flooded basements
- And more
📍 Serving: West Chester, Malvern, Exton, Coatesville, Downingtown, and nearby areas
⏳ 7. Stay Calm and Wait for Help
Once you’ve stopped the water and taken precautions:
- Keep family members and pets away from affected areas.
- Don’t use plumbing fixtures until a plumber gives the all-clear.
- Be prepared to answer questions about what happened and what steps you’ve taken.
👨🔧 Call Sawyer Plumbing – Chester County’s Trusted Emergency Plumbers
We understand how stressful plumbing emergencies can be. Our friendly, licensed team at Sawyer Plumbing is ready to respond day or night to protect your home, fix the issue, and help you get back to normal—fast.
📞 Call Now: (484) 267-1945
🌐 Book Online: www. sawyerplumbingllc.com
📍 Locally Owned & Operated in Chester County, PA
