Plumbing emergencies can range from leaking pipes and clogged drains to a faucets that won't shut off and leaking water heaters. It's important that everyone in the household know the location of the shutoff valve for every plumbing fixture and appliance, as well as the home's main shutoff valve.

Water Shutoff Valves

If a specific plumbing fixture or appliance is leaking or malfunctioning, first look for its shutoff valve and turn it clockwise to turn off the water supply just to the affected system.

The shutoff valve is usually located underneath the toilet or sink. Clothes washers will have two shutoff valves, one each for hot and cold water, often located behind the appliance

If the problem is not with a specific fixture or appliance, or you cannot locate the shutoff valve, locate the main shutoff valve to turn off the water to the entire house.The main shutoff valve will be on the inside where the main water supply pipe enters the house. Turn the valve clockwise to shut it off. If the valve is difficult to turn, keep a wrench near the valve for emergencies.

Water Leaks From Frozen Pipes

Water leaks from frozen pipes are not uncommon in the Chicagoland area. If you're lucky, you will catch the frozen pipe before the ice inside has expanded so you can carefully thaw the pipe and reduce the pressure on the pipe. If the pipe has burst, turn of the main water supply following the instructions above and call a plumber to have the pipe repaired. 

Sewer Line Backups

Sewer lines that have burst or become obstructed can cause major damage to a a home. If your sewer line has backing up it's important to shut off the water supply and stop using any plumbing systems in the home. Call a plumber immediately to identify the cause of the backup so they can take effective action and remove the clog and/or repair the damaged pipe.

Have a plumbing emergency? Call M/R Plumbing. Our professional plumbers will be there in minutes to help fix the problem.