When a plumbing issue turns into an emergency, the goal is simple: stop the water, protect the home, then get a licensed plumber involved. If you’re in Salt Lake City or nearby areas like West Jordan, Sandy, South Jordan, Midvale, Murray, Draper, or Lehi, Rocky Mountain Plumbing & Drain is here to help with emergency plumbing service.
Step 1: Stop the Water (Safest First Move)
If water is actively leaking or spraying, shutting off the water is usually the best first step.
Look for the closest shutoff first:
- Toilet leak: shut off the valve behind the toilet.
- Sink/faucet leak: shut off the hot/cold valves under the sink.
- Water heater leak: shut off the cold-water supply line to the water heater.
- Major leak or unknown source: use the main home shutoff.
Safety note:
If you can’t reach a shutoff safely (ceiling collapse risk, standing water near electrical), skip it and move to safety.
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Step 2: Prioritize Electrical and Gas Safety
In modern homes, water and utility lines often run parallel. Safety must come before damage control.
Electrical Risks
- • Avoid walking into standing water.
- • Do not touch wet electrical devices.
- • If safe, turn off power at the breaker.
Gas Risks
- • Leave the home if you smell gas.
- • Avoid flames or switches.
- • Contact emergency resources.
Rocky Mountain Plumbing & Drain also performs gas line evaluations when safety is a concern.
Step 3: Limit Damage (Without Risky DIY)
Once water is stopped (or minimized), you can reduce damage while you wait for a plumber.
- Move valuables: Get towels, rugs, and electronics out of the wet area.
- Catch the drips: Place a bucket under active leaks.
- Bulging ceilings: Keep people out of the room if the ceiling looks heavy with water.
Avoid risky "fixes":
Don’t cut into drywall, use open flames to dry pipes, or disassemble piping if you aren't confident. Small mistakes can become big floods.
Step 4: What Kind of Emergency Is This?
Different emergencies call for different tools. When you contact an emergency plumber, it helps to describe what’s happening.
When to Call an Emergency Plumber
- You can't stop the water at a shutoff.
- Water is near electrical risks.
- Rapid flooding or burst pipe.
- Sewer backing up into multiple fixtures.
What to Expect When You Request Service
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1
You contact us
Call/text or use online booking.
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2
Rapid Dispatch
Our dispatch team confirms your location in Salt Lake County or Utah County and provides an estimated arrival time.
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3
Licensed plumber arrives
Professional tools and common parts on board.
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4
Clear options & repair
We identify the cause, give you options, and fix it.