7 Signs You Need to Call an Emergency Plumber Right Now

It's 3 a.m., your phone rings, and on the other end is a homeowner panicking about water spraying from under their sink. After two decades in the plumbing business, we've learned that not every leak demands an emergency call—but plenty do. The difference between handling a plumbing problem quickly versus waiting until morning can mean the difference between a simple fix and thousands in water damage. If you're wondering whether your plumbing issue qualifies as a true emergency, this guide breaks down the signs you need an emergency plumber right now. When in doubt, it's better to call. We'd rather come out for a false alarm than have you face a catastrophe.

1. Water Is Actively Flooding Your Home

When water is visibly pouring or spraying into your home, that's not a "wait until tomorrow" situation. Flooding can happen from a burst supply line, an overflowing toilet, a failed water heater, or a compromised pipe in the walls or crawlspace.

Why this is an emergency: Flooding causes damage exponentially. Water seeps into flooring, drywall, insulation, and subflooring within minutes. Mold can begin growing in as little as 24 to 48 hours, creating health hazards and expensive remediation costs. Every hour that water continues unchecked multiplies the damage.

What to do right now:

• Turn off the main water shut-off valve immediately (usually located near the water meter or where the main line enters your home).

• If you can't find or operate the main valve, turn off the water heater as well to slow the flow.

• Move any valuables away from the affected area.

• Open windows and doors to improve ventilation.

• Call us for emergency service immediately.

2. A Pipe Has Burst or You Hear Rushing Water Behind Walls

A burst pipe is one of the most damaging plumbing emergencies. You might see water spurting from a visible pipe, pooling under sinks or in your basement, or hear the unmistakable sound of rushing water inside your walls—even when no faucets are on.

Why this is an emergency: A burst pipe doesn't stop on its own. Water continues flowing until you shut off your main supply, causing widespread water damage to framing, electrical systems, and foundations. Winter in Yonkers is especially brutal on pipes; freezing temperatures can split pipes within hours, and the damage worsens by the minute.

What to do right now:

• Turn off the main water shut-off valve.

• If the burst is visible and accessible, place a bucket underneath to contain water and mark the location for us.

• Turn off the furnace or heating system if water is near electrical or HVAC equipment.

• Document the damage with photos for insurance purposes.

• Call for immediate emergency service.

3. Sewage Is Backing Up Into Fixtures

Raw sewage backing up into your tub, toilet, shower, or lowest-level drain is both a health hazard and a sign of serious trouble. You might notice multiple fixtures draining slowly, or actual sewage surfacing.

Why this is an emergency: Sewage contains harmful bacteria and pathogens that pose immediate health risks, especially for children and people with compromised immune systems. A backup also indicates either a clog deep in your main sewer line or a failure in the line itself. The longer sewage sits, the greater the risk of contamination spreading through your home and soil. This problem only gets worse.

What to do right now:

• Stop using all water and plumbing fixtures immediately (toilets, showers, sinks, washers).

• Do not attempt to flush the toilet or run water; this worsens the backup.

• Keep children and pets away from affected areas.

• If sewage has surfaced in your yard, avoid the area and keep others out.

• Call for our emergency drain cleaning service right away.

4. You Smell Gas Near Pipes or Appliances

A strong odor of rotten eggs or sulfur near your water heater, under the sink, or anywhere in your plumbing system is a red flag. Natural gas has an odorant added so you can detect leaks.

Why this is an emergency: A gas leak is a serious fire and explosion hazard. It can also cause carbon monoxide buildup, which is deadly and odorless on its own. There is no safe way to wait this out.

What to do right now:

• Leave your home immediately. Do not light matches, use electrical switches, or create any spark.

• Once outside, call 911 and Con Edison Gas (1-800-752-6633) from a safe location away from the building.

• Do not re-enter your home until emergency responders and a gas company representative confirm it's safe.

• Once the gas company has cleared the line, call us to inspect and repair the plumbing component causing the issue.

5. No Water Is Coming Out of Any Fixture

You turn on the tap and nothing happens. No water from sinks, showers, or toilets. This differs from a single fixture problem and signals a bigger issue.

Why this is an emergency: Complete water loss means you can't flush toilets, drink, cook, or clean. In warm months, this becomes unsanitary quickly. The cause might be a main line break, a failed pump, or a major freeze. Identifying and fixing the source fast prevents further complications.

What to do right now:

• Check with neighbors to see if they have water; if they do, your main line is likely compromised.

• Listen for hissing or rushing sounds near your water meter or main shut-off—signs of an underground leak.

• If you have a well system, check that the pump is running (listen for a humming sound).

• Avoid running any water or flushing toilets until service is restored.

• Call for emergency service to diagnose and repair the issue.

6. Your Sump Pump Failed During a Storm

A sump pump that isn't working during heavy rain or snowmelt is an emergency waiting to happen. If your pump is silent when it should be running, or if you notice water pooling in your basement during wet weather, take action immediately.

Why this is an emergency: A failed sump pump allows groundwater and storm runoff to accumulate in your basement or crawlspace, leading to flooding, foundation damage, and mold. Yonkers experiences significant spring snowmelt and heavy rain events; without a working pump, your basement becomes a water trap.

What to do right now:

• Stop adding water to the system (avoid using drains and toilets if possible).

• If water is actively pooling, use a wet-dry vacuum or manual removal to prevent further accumulation.

• Check the pump's power connection and reset button; a tripped breaker or loose cord might be the issue.

• Inspect the discharge line for clogs or freezing.

• Call for immediate service to repair or replace the pump before the next storm.

7. Pipes Have Frozen or You Suspect They Will

Frozen pipes are common in Yonkers winters. If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle of water comes out, or if you hear unusual sounds from pipes, freezing may have already begun.

Why this is an emergency: A frozen pipe will burst as ice expands. Once it ruptures, you're facing the flooding emergency covered in sign #2. The longer pipes stay frozen, the more likely a rupture becomes. Early intervention can thaw pipes before they break.

What to do right now:

• Open the affected faucet slightly to relieve pressure and allow water to flow once thawing begins.

• Apply heat to frozen pipe sections using a heat lamp, hairdryer (on low), or heat tape. Never use an open flame.

• Insulate exposed pipes with towels or blankets as a temporary measure.

• If pipes are in walls and you can't access them, increase indoor temperature and open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation.

• Call for emergency service if thawing efforts don't work or if a pipe has already burst.

When Multiple Signs Are Present

If you're experiencing two or more of these situations at once, it's critical to prioritize. Gas smell always comes first—leave and call 911. Flooding is second priority. Sewage backup third. Once you've addressed immediate safety, call Pro Boyz for emergency service.

Don't hesitate with plumbing emergencies. When in doubt, call us. Our 24/7 emergency plumbing service is standing by to handle whatever's happening in your home. Whether you need immediate repairs or just peace of mind, we're here.

Call (914) 297-2466 now, or contact us online to request emergency service.