Plumbing emergencies never happen at convenient times. Knowing what to do in those critical first minutes can mean the difference between minor inconvenience and major damage. Here’s your guide to handling common plumbing emergencies.

Burst Pipe

Immediate Actions

1. Turn off the main water supply – Usually located at the water meter near your property boundary
2. Turn off electricity if water is near electrical outlets or appliances
3. Open taps to drain remaining water in the system
4. Collect water with buckets and towels to minimise damage
5. Call a plumber for emergency repair

While You Wait

• Move furniture and valuables away from water
• Take photos for insurance
• Use a wet vacuum if available
• Open windows for ventilation

Prevention Tips

• Know where your main shutoff valve is before an emergency
• Insulate exposed pipes in cold areas
• Replace flexi hoses every 5-10 years
• Address minor leaks before they become major

Blocked Toilet (Overflowing)

Immediate Actions

1. Don’t flush again – This will make it worse
2. Remove the cistern lid and push down the flapper valve to stop water flow
3. Turn off the isolation tap behind the toilet if present
4. Use towels around the base to contain spillage
5. Try a plunger using firm, controlled pushes

When to Call a Plumber

• Plunging doesn’t work after several attempts
• Multiple fixtures are blocked (indicates main drain issue)
• Water is backing up from other drains
• There’s a sewage smell

Gas Leak

Immediate Actions

1. Do NOT use any electrical switches, phones, or anything that could create a spark
2. Open doors and windows for ventilation
3. Turn off gas at the meter if safe to do so
4. Evacuate all people and pets from the building
5. Call 000 if you smell strong gas or feel unwell
6. Call a licensed gas plumber once safe

Warning Signs

• Smell of gas (rotten egg odour)
• Hissing sound near gas pipes or appliances
• Dead vegetation near gas line
• Higher than normal gas bills

Never Ignore Gas Leaks

Gas leaks can cause explosions, fires, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Always treat them as serious emergencies.

Hot Water System Failure

No Hot Water

1. Check the circuit breaker (electric) or pilot light (gas)
2. Check the thermostat setting
3. Give it 30 minutes to recover after high usage
4. If still no hot water, call a plumber

Leaking Hot Water System

1. Turn off the water supply to the unit
2. Turn off power (electric) or gas supply
3. Call a plumber – tank leaks cannot be repaired
4. A leaking tank may fail completely soon

Relief Valve Dripping

Some dripping is normal (especially during heating). Excessive or continuous flow indicates:

• Faulty valve
• High water pressure
• Thermal expansion issues

Flooding from Appliances

Washing Machine or Dishwasher

1. Turn off the appliance immediately
2. Turn off the water supply taps behind/beside the appliance
3. Unplug from power
4. Remove standing water
5. Check hoses for damage

Common Causes

• Burst flexi hoses (most common)
• Blocked drains
• Failed seals
• Overfilling

Major Drain Blockage

Signs of Main Drain Blockage

• Multiple fixtures draining slowly
• Gurgling sounds when water drains
• Water backing up from floor wastes
• Sewage smells inside or outside

What to Do

1. Stop using water in the house
2. Don’t flush toilets
3. Check outside drain covers for blockage
4. Call a plumber for drain clearing

What Not to Do

• Don’t use chemical drain cleaners for main blockages
• Don’t try to rod drains without experience
• Don’t ignore the problem – it will get worse

Be Prepared: Your Emergency Kit

Keep these items accessible:

• Plumber’s phone number
• Knowledge of shutoff valve locations
• Basic plunger
• Bucket and old towels
• Torch (for checking dark areas)
• Adjustable wrench

Our Emergency Services

Hankook Plumbing provides 24/7 emergency plumbing across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs:

• Fast response – Usually within 60 minutes
• Fully equipped – We carry parts for most repairs
• Clear pricing – No hidden emergency fees
• Licensed and insured – Peace of mind guaranteed

Save This Number

When a plumbing emergency strikes, you need help fast. Save our number in your phone so you’re ready.

Emergency Plumber: 0407 756 172

Available 24/7 for burst pipes, gas leaks, blocked drains, and all plumbing emergencies across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.