What to Do When You Have a Plumbing Emergency in Lubbock
Plumbing emergencies can strike at the worst possible time — a burst pipe, overflowing toilet, or sudden water heater failure can cause major damage if not handled quickly. If you’re a homeowner in Lubbock, Texas, knowing what to do in a plumbing emergency can save your home and prevent costly repairs. At Cotton City Plumbing, we’re here to guide you step-by-step when disaster strikes.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first rule in any plumbing emergency is to stay calm. Panicking can lead to hasty decisions that make the problem worse.
Identify the source of the leak or damage.
Determine if the situation is an immediate threat to your safety or property.
Turn off the water supply if it’s safe to do so. Most homes have a main shut-off valve near the water meter, usually in a garage, utility room, or outside near the street.
Step 2: Shut Off the Water
If water is flooding your home, turning off the water immediately can prevent extensive damage.
Locate your main water shut-off valve and turn it clockwise until it stops.
For specific appliance leaks (like a washing machine or water heater), use the local shut-off valves near the unit.
If the leak involves electricity (like water near outlets or appliances), turn off the power to the affected area to prevent shocks.
Step 3: Contain the Damage
Once the water is stopped, work to contain the damage:
Move furniture, rugs, or valuables away from water.
Use towels or buckets to soak up excess water.
If flooding is severe, call a water damage restoration service in addition to your plumber.
Step 4: Call an Emergency Plumber
Some plumbing issues require professional attention immediately. In Lubbock, you can rely on Cotton City Plumbing for fast, emergency service.
Common emergencies include:
Burst or leaking pipes
Overflowing toilets that won’t stop
Water heater leaks or failures
Sewer backups
Call us immediately — we’re available for 24/7 emergency plumbing service in Lubbock.
Step 5: Prevent Future Emergencies
After the immediate crisis is under control, it’s important to prevent future problems:
Schedule a full plumbing inspection to check for weak pipes or aging water heaters.
Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing in winter.
Maintain drains and clean out debris regularly.
Consider replacing old or corroded plumbing systems before they fail.
Cotton City Plumbing: Lubbock’s Trusted Emergency Plumber
Plumbing emergencies can happen at any time — day or night — but you don’t have to face them alone. Cotton City Plumbing is here to provide fast, reliable, and professional plumbing service to protect your home and peace of mind.