Don’t Let a Leak Turn Into a Disaster
A burst pipe, backed-up sewer, or overflowing toilet can escalate from annoying to devastating in minutes—especially if you’re not sure what to do. Plumbing emergencies are stressful, but knowing how to react can save you time, money, and serious damage to your home.
At Valley Services Utah, we’ve responded to thousands of emergency calls across Salt Lake County and Utah County. Whether it’s 2 p.m. or 2 a.m., we’ve seen how quick thinking makes all the difference. That’s why we’ve put together this essential list of plumbing emergency tips every Utah homeowner should know.
1. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is
This one tip can save you thousands in water damage.
When a pipe bursts or a major leak happens, shutting off the main water line is the first—and most important—step. In Utah homes, the main shut-off is usually:
- In the basement (often near the water heater)
- In a utility closet
- In the crawlspace
- Outside, near the foundation or meter box
Pro Tip: Take a photo of your shut-off valve and show it to family members. Everyone in the house should know where it is.
2. Turn Off the Water Heater in an Emergency
If your water heater is leaking or your main water valve is off, make sure to shut down your water heater to prevent pressure buildup or damage. For gas heaters, turn the dial to “pilot”. For electric units, switch off the breaker.
This is especially important during Utah’s cold winters, when frozen pipes can cause sudden heater issues or backflow problems.
3. Don’t Use Chemical Drain Cleaners
When dealing with a clogged drain, it’s tempting to pour in a quick fix—but store-bought drain cleaners can corrode pipes, especially PVC or older metal ones. Worse, they often just push the blockage further down the line.
Instead:
- Use a plunger or drain snake
- Try a mixture of baking soda and vinegar
- Call a professional if the clog persists
At Valley Services, we offer fast-response drain clearing with safe, long-term solutions.
4. Watch for Warning Signs of Pipe Freezing
In Utah’s harsh winters, frozen pipes are a top plumbing emergency—especially in basements, garages, and exterior walls.
Look for:
- Sudden drop in water pressure
- Frost on exposed pipes
- Strange banging or gurgling noises
If you suspect a frozen pipe:
- Turn off the main water
- Open faucets slightly to relieve pressure
- Use a space heater or warm towels (never a blowtorch!) to thaw the pipe
5. Have an Emergency Plumber on Speed Dial
When a plumbing disaster hits, you won’t want to waste time searching for reviews or waiting on callbacks. Keep a trusted 24-hour plumber in Utah saved in your phone—preferably one that serves your specific city.
Save this now: Valley Services Utah – (801) 341-4222
We serve Salt Lake City, Draper, Sandy, Lehi, Orem, and all surrounding areas.
6. Check for Leaks After Earthquakes or Construction
In areas like Salt Lake and Utah County, even minor seismic activity or home remodeling can damage plumbing.
- After an earthquake: Inspect visible pipes and the water heater for cracks or movement.
- After renovations: Make sure plumbing lines weren’t punctured or shifted.
Catch issues early before they become weekend emergencies.
7. Keep a Plumbing Emergency Kit on Hand
Just like a first aid kit, a plumbing emergency kit can buy you time and prevent a mess. Stock it with:
- Pipe wrench and pliers
- Heavy-duty towels or rags
- Plumber’s tape (Teflon)
- Bucket and wet/dry shop vac
- Rubber gloves
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Drain snake or auger
Bonus: Keep these in a bin labeled “Plumbing Kit” under your sink or in the garage for easy access.
8. Know When to Call a Pro—Immediately
Some issues should never wait:
- Sewer smells or backups
- Gas line leaks or strange odors
- Burst pipes or flooding
- No hot water during freezing temps
These aren’t DIY situations. Call an emergency plumber right away.
At Valley Services, our 24/7 team is trained to handle the worst—so you don’t have to panic.
Serving Utah County & Salt Lake County 24/7
We’re proud to help homeowners in:
- Lehi, American Fork, Orem, and Provo
- Sandy, Draper, Riverton, and West Jordan
- Salt Lake City, South Jordan, and surrounding areas
Whether you’re dealing with an emergency or just want peace of mind, Valley Services is your go-to plumbing partner.
Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Not Panicked
Emergencies happen—but they don’t have to turn into disasters. By staying informed, acting quickly, and having a reliable plumber on call, you can minimize the damage and stress of any plumbing emergency.
Need emergency plumbing in Utah? Call Valley Services anytime—24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We’ll be there when it matters most.
