A plumbing problem at night raises an expensive question: call now, or wait until morning? Some situations genuinely can't wait. Here's how to tell the difference.
Call immediately for these
- A burst or actively leaking pipe you can't stop
- Sewage backing up into your home
- No water at all in the house
- A gas smell near any appliance (leave first, then call)
- A water heater leaking heavily or making rumbling sounds
- Flooding from any source
These can usually wait until morning
- A single slow or clogged drain (if others work)
- A dripping faucet
- A running toilet you can shut off at the valve
- Low water pressure at one fixture
The deciding question
Ask yourself: is water actively causing damage, is the problem a health hazard, or does it leave the home unlivable? If yes to any, it's an emergency. If you can safely shut off the water to the problem and everything else works, it can likely wait.
Pro Tip
When in doubt, call. A good 24/7 plumber will help you decide over the phone whether you need service now or can safely schedule for the morning.
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