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Emergency Plumbing Tips: What to Do Before Monahan & Every Arrives
1. Introduction
A plumbing emergency can strike without warning—burst pipes, overflowing toilets, water heater failures, or severe leaks are problems that can escalate quickly. When panic sets in, knowing exactly what to do before the plumber arrives can save thousands in damages and protect your home.
If you’re in Glens Falls, NY, and have called Monahan & Every Plumbing & Heating, you’re already a step ahead. With more than 25 years of experience and a trusted name in local plumbing, Monahan & Every provides responsive emergency services backed by professionalism and quality workmanship.
This article equips you with step-by-step emergency plumbing tips you can act on immediately—before Monahan & Every arrives—to protect your home, your property, and your peace of mind.
2. Understanding a Plumbing Emergency
A plumbing emergency isn’t just about inconvenience—it’s about risk. Left unchecked, plumbing failures can lead to:
- Flooded floors and drywall
- Structural damage
- Mold growth
- Electrical hazards
- Soaring repair costs
Common emergencies include:
- Burst or frozen pipes
- Overflowing toilets
- Water heater failure or leaking
- Sewer backups
- Major leaks under sinks or behind walls
Whether it’s a small bathroom leak or a flooded basement, early action can mitigate damage.
3. About Monahan & Every Plumbing & Heating
Before diving into the action plan, here’s why Monahan & Every is a go-to plumbing provider for emergency calls in Glens Falls and surrounding areas.
Company Overview:
- Business Name: Monahan & Every Plumbing & Heating LLC
- Location: 106 Dix Ave, Glens Falls, NY 12801
- Phone: (518) 745-7586
- Website: meplumbingandheating.com
- Services: Plumbing, water heater repair, residential heating, air conditioning, new construction installations, emergency plumbing
- Unique Features:
- Over 25 years in business
- 1-year workmanship warranty
- Fair pricing, transparent estimates
- 24/7 emergency response
Their skilled technicians are known for professionalism, speed, and the ability to handle urgent plumbing issues without unnecessary upsells or delays.
4. What to Do Before Help Arrives: Step-by-Step Guide
The moments between discovering a plumbing emergency and a technician arriving are critical. Here’s a checklist of what you should do:
A. Turn Off the Water Supply
The most urgent step: prevent more water from flooding your home.
- Main Valve: Usually located in the basement or near the water meter.
- Appliance-Specific Shut-Offs: Toilets, sinks, and washing machines have their own local shut-off valves.
If you’re unsure where the main shutoff is, now’s the time to locate it—even before an emergency occurs.
B. Shut Off Your Water Heater
In leaks involving hot water or risk of water heater damage:
- Turn off the power supply (electric or gas).
- Then turn off the cold water supply into the heater.
This prevents damage to the unit and avoids pressure build-up.
C. Turn Off Electricity (If Needed)
Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. If water is near electrical outlets or appliances:
- Flip the circuit breaker for that area.
- Do NOT touch water-drenched appliances.
Call an electrician or wait for Monahan & Every to advise further.
D. Stop Minor Leaks (Temporary Fixes)
Use common materials to reduce water damage:
- Teflon tape or duct tape for minor cracks
- Buckets to collect dripping water
- Towels to block water from spreading
This won’t fix the issue but buys valuable time until professionals arrive.
E. Drain Remaining Water
After shutting off the water, open faucets to let remaining water in the pipes drain out. This:
- Relieves pressure
- Minimizes water left in the system
- Helps Monahan & Every begin repairs faster
F. Document the Damage
Take quick photos of any flooding or visible pipe issues. This helps:
- With insurance claims
- Monahan & Every to understand the scope before arriving
G. Communicate Clearly When You Call
When you call Monahan & Every, provide these details:
- Your address and callback number
- Where the leak or issue is
- Whether water is shut off
- Any visible damage or flooding
- Whether electrical or HVAC systems are involved
This ensures the right technician and tools are dispatched quickly.
5. Emergency Plumbing Actions Table
| Step | Action | Why It Matters | Time to Complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shut off main water valve | Locate and turn clockwise | Stops active flooding, prevents further damage | 1–2 minutes |
| Shut off water heater | Turn off electric/gas and cold water intake | Avoids heater damage or explosion risk | 1 minute |
| Turn off affected circuits | Use breaker panel to disable electricity | Prevents electrocution in water-affected areas | 2 minutes |
| Control minor leaks | Apply tape or wrap cloth over small leaks | Limits water spread while waiting for repair | 5 minutes |
| Drain system | Open faucets and flush toilets | Removes residual water from pipes | 5–10 minutes |
| Document damage | Take smartphone photos of affected areas | Supports insurance claims and technician insights | 2–5 minutes |
| Call Monahan & Every | Provide detailed info about the emergency | Speeds up accurate diagnosis and dispatch | 5 minutes |
6. Common Plumbing Emergencies and Their Early Responses
A. Burst Pipes
- Shut off water immediately.
- Open faucets to relieve pressure.
- Call Monahan & Every for same-day repair.
B. Overflowing Toilet
- Turn off the valve behind the toilet.
- Avoid flushing.
- Use towels or mop to contain water.
C. Water Heater Leak
- Shut off the unit’s power and water intake.
- Document the leak.
- Clear space around the unit for easy access.
D. Sewer Backup
- Do not use sinks, showers, or toilets.
- Avoid walking in contaminated water.
- Notify Monahan & Every of possible sewer issue.
E. Frozen Pipes
- Shut off water.
- Do NOT use open flames to thaw.
- Apply warm towels or a hair dryer gently on affected areas while waiting for a technician.
7. How Monahan & Every Handles Emergencies
Once you’ve called, here’s what to expect from their service process:
A. Rapid Response
Monahan & Every’s emergency line prioritizes flooding, heater breakdowns, and sewer failures. Most calls are responded to within the same day or even within a few hours.
B. Assessment and Containment
Technicians will quickly assess the source, stop further damage, and determine if parts can be repaired or need replacement.
C. Transparent Estimates
You’ll receive a clear explanation and cost estimate before work begins. There are no hidden charges—even during emergencies.
D. Temporary or Permanent Solutions
Depending on parts availability, the technician may implement a temporary solution to stabilize the situation until full repair can be completed.
E. Workmanship Guarantee
Monahan & Every backs emergency repairs with a 1-year warranty—so you can rest easy knowing the work is reliable and covered.
8. Long-Term Prevention Strategies
Once your emergency is under control, you’ll want to avoid a repeat. Monahan & Every also provides:
- Annual plumbing inspections
- Water heater maintenance
- Pipe insulation for freeze protection
- HVAC checkups to avoid heater leaks
- Sump pump installation for flood-prone homes
Consider scheduling follow-up maintenance for peace of mind.
9. Emergency Kit Checklist for Homeowners
Every home should have a basic plumbing emergency kit:
- Flashlight and spare batteries
- Adjustable wrench
- Duct tape or plumber’s tape
- Bucket and heavy towels
- Wet/dry vacuum (if available)
- Contact info for Monahan & Every posted in kitchen or garage
Having these items ready ensures you can take action confidently when needed.
10. Final Thoughts
Plumbing emergencies are stressful—but you’re never alone when you’ve got a trusted provider like Monahan & Every Plumbing & Heating on your side. Acting quickly, following these emergency tips, and calling for professional help are the keys to minimizing damage and disruption.
By taking the right steps before help arrives, you become an active part of the solution—protecting your home and ensuring faster recovery. Whether it’s a busted pipe or an unexpected water heater failure, Monahan & Every stands ready to help you 24/7 with honest service, experienced technicians, and guaranteed results.
