Plumbing emergencies can happen when you least expect them, leading to stress, water damage, and costly repairs. Understanding what causes the most common plumbing emergencies can help homeowners take preventative steps to avoid disaster. From burst pipes to sewer backups, here are the top 10 plumbing emergencies and what leads to them.
1. Burst Pipes
A burst pipe can flood your home within minutes, causing extensive damage. The most common reasons pipes burst include:
- Freezing temperatures – In winter, water inside pipes can freeze and expand, causing the pipe to crack or burst.
- High water pressure – Excessive water pressure can stress pipes, leading to leaks or bursts over time.
- Corrosion – Old pipes, especially those made of metal, can corrode and weaken, making them prone to breaking.
2. Clogged Drains
Slow-draining sinks and tubs are often due to buildup inside pipes. Common culprits include:
- Grease and food particles – Pouring grease or oil down the drain can solidify and cause stubborn blockages.
- Hair and soap scum – Hair can tangle with soap residue, creating clogs in bathroom drains.
- Foreign objects – Items like wipes, cotton swabs, and small toys can accidentally go down drains and cause serious blockages.
3. Overflowing Toilet
Few things are more stressful than flushing a toilet and watching the water rise instead of draining. This is typically caused by:
- Flushing non-flushable items – Wipes, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products can clog toilet pipes.
- Excessive toilet paper – Using too much toilet paper can block pipes, preventing water from flowing properly.
- Faulty float mechanism – If the toilet’s float isn’t working correctly, it may not regulate water levels properly, leading to overflow.
4. Leaky Faucets
A dripping faucet may seem minor, but it can waste gallons of water daily. Common causes include:
- Worn-out washers or O-rings – These small rubber components inside the faucet wear down over time, causing leaks.
- High water pressure – Excessive pressure can strain faucet components, leading to leaks.
- Corroded valve seat – The valve seat connects the faucet and spout; corrosion can lead to dripping.
5. Low Water Pressure
Weak water flow from taps can be frustrating and is often due to:
- Hidden leaks – Small leaks in pipes reduce water pressure and may indicate a larger plumbing issue.
- Sediment or mineral buildup – Hard water can leave deposits inside pipes and faucets, restricting water flow.
- Municipal supply issues – Sometimes, the problem is outside your home, such as water main breaks or maintenance.
6. Water Heater Failure
A failing water heater means no hot showers, and that’s never fun. Common causes of breakdowns include:
- Sediment buildup – Minerals from hard water collect at the bottom of the tank, reducing heating efficiency.
- Faulty thermostat or heating element – If these components fail, your water won’t heat properly.
- Rust or corrosion – Over time, corrosion inside the tank can lead to leaks and failure.
Read Our Blog: When Should You Replace a Water Heater
7. Sewer System Backup
A sewer backup is one of the worst plumbing emergencies, often leading to foul smells and wastewater overflowing into your home. Causes include:
- Tree root intrusion – Roots from nearby trees can grow into underground sewer pipes, causing blockages.
- Grease buildup – Pouring grease down the drain can solidify and clog sewer lines.
- Aging pipes – Older sewer systems may collapse or crack over time, leading to backups.
8. Frozen Pipes
In Ottawa’s harsh winters, frozen pipes are a common issue. They happen when:
- Temperatures drop below freezing – Water inside pipes freezes, expands, and can cause pipes to burst.
- Poor insulation – Pipes in unheated areas, like basements or attics, are more prone to freezing.
- Lack of water movement – Pipes freeze more easily when no water is running through them.
9. Sump Pump Failure
A sump pump is your home’s first line of defense against basement flooding, but it can fail due to:
- Power failures – If a storm knocks out power, the sump pump stops working unless there’s a battery backup.
- Clogged or frozen discharge pipes – Water needs an outlet, and if the discharge pipe is blocked, the pump can’t remove excess water.
- Overworked pump – If the pump isn’t sized correctly for your home, it may wear out quickly.
10. Gas Leaks
While not a water-related emergency, gas leaks are often handled by plumbers and can be extremely dangerous. Common causes include:
- Aging gas lines – Old pipes may develop cracks or corrosion, leading to leaks.
- Loose connections – Poorly fitted joints or damaged seals can allow gas to escape.
- Physical damage – Accidental damage during renovations or landscaping can puncture gas lines.
How to Prevent Plumbing Emergencies
While some plumbing emergencies are unavoidable, you can take simple steps to reduce the risk. Insulating your pipes in winter helps prevent freezing and bursting, especially in Ottawa’s cold climate. Be mindful of what goes down your drains—only flush toilet paper and avoid pouring grease or hair into sinks to prevent clogs. Monitor your water bill for sudden increases, as this could indicate a hidden leak that needs immediate attention. Lastly, schedule regular maintenance for your water heater and sump pump to keep them functioning properly and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Plumbing Solutions from DRAINPRO Ottawa
Understanding what causes plumbing emergencies is the first step in preventing costly damage, but even with the best precautions, unexpected issues can still arise. When they do, acting fast and relying on a professional plumber is the best way to keep your home safe and your plumbing system running smoothly.
We specialize in emergency plumbing repairs, drain cleaning, water heater services, and more. Whether you’re dealing with a burst pipe, a clogged drain, or a failing sump pump, our expert team is ready to help. Contact us today for reliable, plumbing services you can trust!
