What NOT to Do During Plumbing Emergencies

Plumbing emergencies don’t wait for a convenient time — and when they hit, every second counts. From burst pipes to backed-up drains, knowing how to respond can make the difference between a quick fix and thousands of dollars in water damage.

But while many homeowners know what to do in a crisis, fewer realize there are critical missteps that can make things much worse. Here are five common mistakes to avoid during a plumbing emergency — and how Bob Oates Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter can help you handle things the right way.

1. Don’t Forget to Shut Off the Main Water Supply

In any plumbing emergency involving flowing or leaking water — such as a burst pipe, overflowing toilet, or broken fixture — the first thing you should do is shut off your home’s main water valve. Failing to do so can result in severe flooding, extensive property damage, and even structural problems.

If you don’t know where your water main shut-off is located, now is a good time to find it. It’s often near the perimeter of the home or in a basement or crawlspace. In some emergencies, you may only need to shut off the localized water supply (e.g., to a toilet or sink), but for major incidents, the main shut-off is essential.

Need help locating or inspecting your water main? Our team at Bob Oates specializes in water main repair and replacement and can make sure your shut-off valve is in good working order before you ever need it.

2. Don’t Use Plumbing Tools Without the Right Know-How

Grabbing a wrench or drain snake might feel like the quickest way to take control of the situation — but using plumbing tools without proper knowledge can cause serious damage. Misusing an auger can scratch or crack your pipes. Overtightening connections might lead to long-term leaks. Even plungers, when used incorrectly, can push clogs deeper or rupture seals.

Our advice? Unless you’re confident in the tool and the task, leave it alone.

In emergencies, the best tool you can use is your phone. Call a licensed, local plumber with the training and equipment to handle the job safely. At Bob Oates, our emergency plumbing technicians are available 24/7 throughout Seattle to respond quickly — with fully stocked trucks and expert knowledge.

3. Don’t Attempt DIY Fixes That Could Make Things Worse

We get it — DIY solutions can feel empowering and cost-effective. But during a plumbing emergency, a YouTube tutorial isn’t a replacement for years of hands-on experience.

Homeowners often try to snake their own drains, tape a leaking pipe, or pour chemical drain cleaners down a slow sink. Unfortunately, these short-term “fixes” can cause more harm than good. Off-the-shelf drain cleaners, for example, can be highly corrosive and damage your pipes or splash back onto your skin. Misusing a plumbing snake can lead to cracked drain lines or clogged traps.

As we explain in our blog on why DIY drain snaking is not advisable, it’s better to call the pros than risk an injury — or a far more expensive repair.

4. Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs

Sometimes, the biggest mistake in assessing plumbing emergencies is assuming they’re not really emergencies at all.

If you notice signs like gurgling drains, sewage odors, or unexpectedly high water bills, don’t wait until it turns into a full-blown disaster. These are early indicators of a potentially serious issue, such as a main line backup or hidden leak.

Seattle-area homes, especially older ones, are susceptible to tree root invasion, pipe corrosion, and weather-related failures. A quick call to Bob Oates can help diagnose the issue before it spirals into something worse — saving you time, money, and stress.

5. Don’t Panic — Call a Trusted Emergency Plumber

During a high-stress situation, it’s easy to make hasty decisions or call the first plumber you find online. But not all plumbing companies offer 24/7 service, and some may charge exorbitant emergency fees or lack the proper tools for complex repairs.

At Bob Oates Sewer & Rooter, we’re proud to be one of Seattle’s most trusted plumbing teams. We offer prompt, professional service day or night — and we always arrive with the equipment and experience needed to fix the problem right the first time.

Final Thoughts

Plumbing emergencies are chaotic, but your response doesn’t have to be. By staying calm, avoiding these common mistakes, and calling a trusted professional like Bob Oates, you can minimize damage and get your home back in working order quickly.

If you’re dealing with an emergency or want to prepare for the unexpected, contact our team today — we’re here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.