A plumbing emergency can strike at any time—burst pipes, overflowing toilets, or sudden leaks can cause panic and costly damage. While waiting for professional help from experts like Aquatek (offering boiler repair services and as trusted bathroom fitters in Colchester), taking the right steps can minimise damage and keep your home safe.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ Common plumbing emergencies & immediate actions
✔ How to shut off water in different scenarios
✔ Temporary fixes to prevent further damage
✔ When to call professionals like Aquatek
1. Burst or Leaking Pipes
What to Do Immediately:
Turn off the main water supply – Locate the stopcock (usually under the kitchen sink or near the water meter).
Drain remaining water – Run cold taps to relieve pressure.
Contain the leak – Place buckets under drips and wrap towels around the pipe.
Temporary Fixes:
✔ Use pipe repair tape or a rubber patch kit for small leaks.
✔ For larger bursts, clamp a piece of rubber (like an old inner tube) over the leak with a hose clamp.
Professional Help: If pipes are corroded or repeatedly bursting, contact Aquatek for full pipe replacement.
2. Overflowing Toilet
What to Do Immediately:
Stop flushing – Don’t add more water to the bowl.
Turn off the water supply – Find the isolation valve near the toilet base.
Plunge gently – Use a flange plunger to clear blockages.
If Water Keeps Rising:
✔ Remove the toilet tank lid and lift the float valve to stop water flow.
✔ Bail out excess water with a bucket to prevent overflow.
Warning: Avoid chemical drain cleaners—they can damage pipes.
For Stubborn Clogs: Aquatek’s bathroom fitters in Colchester can inspect and repair drainage issues.
3. Boiler Leaks or Breakdowns
What to Do Immediately:
Turn off the boiler – Use the emergency switch.
Switch off electricity – If water is near electrical components.
Place towels to soak up leaks.
Temporary Fixes:
✔ If the pressure is too high, bleed radiators to reduce it.
✔ For minor leaks, use a sealant bandage (for pipes only—not the boiler itself).
Never Attempt: DIY boiler repairs—gas and electrical work requires certification.
Professional Help: Aquatek’s boiler repair services ensure safe, lasting fixes.
4. Blocked Sinks or Drains
What to Do Immediately:
Stop using the sink – Prevent further backups.
Try a plunger – Create a tight seal and plunge vigorously.
Use baking soda & vinegar – Pour ½ cup of each, wait 15 mins, then flush with hot water.
Avoid:
Harsh chemical cleaners (they corrode pipes).
Over-tightening pipes when dismantling.
For Persistent Blockages: A professional drain inspection may be needed.
5. No Hot Water
Quick Checks Before Calling for Help:
✔ Reset the boiler – Check the manual for reset instructions.
✔ Check the thermostat – Ensure it’s set above 50°C.
✔ Look for error codes – Modern boilers display fault messages.
If Problems Persist:
- Aquatek’s boiler repair services can diagnose issues like:
- Faulty heating elements
- Broken diaphragms
- Airlocks in pipes
When to Call a Professional Immediately
Don’t delay if you notice:
Sewage smells (indicating a broken waste pipe)
Water near electrical outlets (risk of electrocution)
No water at all (possible main supply issue)
Gas leaks (evacuate and call the gas emergency line first)
Aquatek offers:
✔ 24/7 emergency plumbing
✔ Boiler repair services
✔ Expert bathroom fitters in Colchester
Preventing Future Emergencies
✅ Insulate pipes in winter to prevent freezing.
✅ Service your boiler annually to avoid breakdowns.
✅ Install leak detectors for early warnings.
✅ Avoid flushing wipes or grease down drains.
For long-term solutions, visit Aquatek for professional plumbing and heating services.
Final Thoughts
Plumbing emergencies are stressful, but quick action can save thousands in repairs. While temporary fixes help, always rely on certified professionals like Aquatek for:
✔ Permanent boiler repairs
✔ Bathroom plumbing installations
✔ Complex pipework issues
Facing an emergency? Contact Aquatek now for fast, reliable service!
