Emergency Plumbing 101: What to Do Before the Pros Arrive in Conway, AR

October 31, 2025

When a plumbing disaster strikes, whether it’s a burst pipe, sudden leak, or flooding, every second counts. In the panic of a water emergency, homeowners often scramble to control the damage before help arrives. Knowing what to do in those critical first few minutes can make the difference between a quick repair and thousands of dollars in property damage.

At Ace Rooter & Plumbing, our licensed technicians provide 24/7 emergency plumbing services across Conway, AR, and all of Faulkner County. With decades of hands-on experience, we’ve seen every kind of emergency imaginable, and we know that being prepared can save you stress, money, and time.

Here’s your complete guide on what to do during a plumbing emergency before the professionals arrive.

Recognizing a Plumbing Emergency

Not every plumbing issue requires an immediate call to a 24-hour plumber in Conway. However, certain situations demand fast action:

Burst pipes spraying or flooding areas of your home.
Major water leaks that won’t stop after you turn off the fixtures.
Sewage backups that bring wastewater into sinks, tubs, or toilets.
Water heater failures causing leaks or flooding.
Clogged drains that prevent water from flowing or create pressure in the system.

If you’re facing one of these situations, don’t wait. Contact Ace Rooter & Plumbing’s emergency team immediately for reliable, around-the-clock service.

Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply

The first and most critical step in any water leak emergency is to stop the flow of water. Every second that water runs through a broken pipe or leaking joint adds to the damage.

Locate the main shut-off valve.
Most homes in Conway have this valve near the water meter, basement, crawl space, or where the main water line enters the house. Turn it clockwise to close.
Shut off localized valves if possible.
If you know the leak is coming from a specific fixture, like a toilet, sink, or washing machine, close the smaller valve located directly behind or beneath it.
Check outdoor connections.
In winter, disconnect hoses and shut outdoor spigots to prevent frozen pipes that can burst under pressure.

By cutting the water supply quickly, you’ll minimize flooding and make it easier for your plumber to diagnose and repair the issue when they arrive.

Step 2: Turn Off the Electricity if There’s Flooding

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If water has pooled near outlets, appliances, or wiring, do not attempt to walk through standing water.

Instead:

Turn off the power at your circuit breaker, but only if it’s safe to do so.
If you can’t reach it safely, evacuate the area and wait for help.

At Ace Rooter & Plumbing, safety is our top priority. Our emergency plumbers in Conway, AR, are trained to handle plumbing issues that overlap with electrical hazards and will work alongside local utility providers if necessary.

Step 3: Drain the Lines and Relieve Pressure

Once the water supply is shut off, open all faucets, both hot and cold, to drain the remaining water in your pipes. Don’t forget to:

Flush toilets several times to empty tanks.
Run outdoor spigots if the weather allows.

This helps relieve pressure in your plumbing system, especially after a burst pipe. It also prevents residual water from freezing during cold temperatures.

Step 4: Contain the Leak and Protect Your Home

Even small leaks can cause extensive water damage if left unchecked. Use these water leak emergency steps to contain the mess:

Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum to collect standing water.
Move furniture, electronics, and valuables to a dry area.
Place waterproof tarps or plastic sheeting under leaks if the ceiling is dripping.
Inspect nearby walls and floors for bubbling paint, swelling, or discoloration, signs that water has spread beyond the visible area.

If the leak is near drywall or insulation, avoid poking or cutting until professionals can assess the structure.

Step 5: Check for Additional Signs of Damage

Once things are under control, take a few minutes to inspect your plumbing system and note any warning signs for the technician:

Low or no water pressure in specific areas.
Discolored or rusty water from faucets.
Unusual sounds like banging, gurgling, or hissing.
Persistent damp spots or musty odors.

Document these issues with photos or short notes. This information helps your 24-hour plumber in Conway diagnose the problem faster when they arrive.

Step 6: Call a 24/7 Emergency Plumber in Conway, AR

After securing your home, it’s time to bring in the experts. Contact Ace Rooter & Plumbing right away for plumbing emergency help. Our dispatch team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and holidays.

Why Choose Ace Rooter & Plumbing?

Immediate Dispatch: We send experienced technicians anywhere in Conway and Faulkner County within minutes.
Highly Trained Local Plumbers: Our team combines decades of field experience with the latest diagnostic tools.
Full-Service Solutions: From burst pipes and slab leaks to sewer backups, we handle it all.
Honesty & Reliability: We’re a BBB-accredited company known across Conway for transparent pricing and trustworthy service.

When you call us, you won’t be routed through an answering service; you’ll reach a trained dispatcher who understands the urgency of your situation.

Step 7: Avoid DIY Repairs During an Emergency

While it might be tempting to grab a wrench or tape to fix a leak yourself, temporary DIY solutions often make matters worse. Improperly tightening fittings or using the wrong sealant can lead to more severe breaks once the water pressure returns.

Leave the repair to trained professionals. Focus instead on keeping your home safe, dry, and ready for inspection.

Step 8: Prevent Future Plumbing Emergencies

After the immediate crisis is resolved, take proactive steps to prevent future emergencies:

Schedule regular inspections.
Annual maintenance can catch small leaks before they become major problems.
Insulate exposed pipes.
Protect outdoor and basement pipes from freezing during Arkansas winters.
Know your system.
Familiarize yourself with your main shut-off valve, drain cleanouts, and appliance connections.
Upgrade old fixtures.
Aging pipes and valves are more prone to failure. Ask your plumber if replacement is a wise investment.
Install a leak detection system.
Smart sensors can alert you to hidden water leaks long before they cause visible damage.

At Ace Rooter & Plumbing, our technicians not only fix the problem, but they also educate homeowners on how to avoid repeat issues.

When to Call for Plumbing Emergency Help

If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies as an emergency, here’s a quick guideline:

Is water actively leaking, spraying, or flooding your home?
Is there a risk of electrical shock or structural damage?
Are your drains or toilets backing up into other fixtures?
Is your water heater leaking or emitting strange noises or odors?

If you answered “yes” to any of these, call Ace Rooter & Plumbing’s 24-hour plumber in Conway immediately. Even if the issue seems minor, prompt action prevents escalation and saves money.

Your Trusted Emergency Plumber in Conway, AR

When plumbing emergencies happen, you need fast, honest, and professional help from a team you can trust. Ace Rooter & Plumbing has been serving Conway homeowners for years with dependable service, transparent pricing, and a proven commitment to safety.

Our 24/7 emergency response ensures that when a burst pipe or leak strikes, you’re never left waiting. We proudly serve Conway, Greenbrier, Vilonia, Mayflower, and all surrounding areas in Faulkner County.

Don’t panic, just remember these steps: shut off the water, stay safe, and call the professionals who know exactly what to do.

Categorised in: Emergency Plumbing, Professional Plumbers