A burst pipe. A flooded basement. An overflowing toilet. Plumbing emergencies in Aurora can escalate within minutes, and the damage gets worse the longer you wait. But what you do before the plumber arrives can make a huge difference.
Whether you’re dealing with a late-night leak or a weekend sewer backup, acting fast can protect your home and prevent more costly repairs. Homeowners in nearby areas like Arlington Heights and Schaumburg know that trusted emergency plumbing services are only part of the solution—knowing what to do until help arrives is just as critical.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to take during an emergency plumbing in Aurora so you’re ready when it counts most.
Shut Off the Water First
When water starts pouring where it shouldn’t, your first move is simple: shut off the water. Find your home’s main water shut-off valve and turn it clockwise until it’s completely closed. This step alone can save thousands in water damage.
If the issue is localized—like a leaking toilet or kitchen faucet—you may be able to use fixture-specific shut-offs underneath sinks or behind toilets.
For older Aurora homes, corroded or hidden shut-off valves can make emergencies worse. During routine residential plumbing repairs, consider having FlowPro assess your valves for easy access.
Stopping the water flow early is the most effective way to limit damage while waiting for professional emergency plumbing in Aurora.
Turn Off the Water Heater (If Needed)
If a burst pipe or main line issue causes a water outage, don’t forget to shut off your water heater. Running it without water can cause internal damage or even become hazardous.
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For electric models, switch off the breaker
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For gas water heaters, turn off the gas supply valve
It is especially important in Aurora’s colder months, when frozen or broken pipes are more common. If your water heater shows signs of pressure buildup or leaks, you may need further inspection or even gas line repair services in Prospect Heights to ensure safe operation.
Control the Water and Protect Your Belongings
While waiting for help, take steps to limit water spread and protect valuables:
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Use towels, buckets, or a shop vac to contain flooding
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Move electronics, furniture, and rugs out of harm’s way
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Shut doors to prevent moisture from spreading through your home
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Never enter areas with standing water if outlets or electrical panels are nearby
In basement flooding cases, it’s best to avoid entering until a professional has assessed the safety.
Homeowners in Lake Zurich, Wheeling, and Vernon Hills often deal with flooding due to weather and aging plumbing. Acting quickly helps prevent structural damage and lowers the risk of costly follow-up residential plumbing repairs.
Know What Not to Do During a Plumbing Emergency
In a panic, it’s easy to make a plumbing emergency worse. Avoid these common mistakes:
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Don’t use chemical drain cleaners—they can damage pipes, especially older ones, and complicate future repairs.
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Don’t try to open walls or ceilings to find leaks unless advised by a pro.
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Don’t ignore gas smells—this could point to a deeper issue needing urgent attention, like gas line repair services in Prospect Heights.
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Avoid DIY pipe patches on major leaks or burst lines.
Homeowners seeking broken pipe repair in Schaumburg often call FlowPro after a temporary fix fails. Instead of guessing, call the experts. In most cases, your safest move is to stop the water and wait for certified emergency plumbing in Aurora.
Call a Trusted Emergency Plumbing Service
Once the situation is under control, call a professional right away. FlowPro Plumbing offers 24/7 response for emergency plumbing in Aurora and throughout the Chicagoland.
We’ve helped homeowners across Arlington Heights, Lake Zurich, and Prospect Heights handle everything from sewer backups to burst pipes—often within the hour. Our certified technicians arrive fully equipped to stop the problem and begin cleanup immediately.
We also provide follow-up services like residential plumbing repairs, pipe replacements, sump pump inspections, and more to prevent future incidents. With FlowPro, you’re never alone in an emergency.
Plumbing emergencies are unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. Knowing how to shut off water, minimize damage, and avoid costly mistakes can make all the difference when minutes matter.
FlowPro Plumbing is the go-to team for emergency plumbing in Aurora, with 24/7 response and decades of combined experience. We’re ready to help whether you’re facing a broken pipe, sewage backup, or severe leak.
Trusted by homeowners from Schaumburg to Lake Zurich, we fix urgent problems fast—and help you prevent them from happening again.
Call FlowPro Plumbing at 331-444-3389 or request emergency service online today. We’re always on call, so you don’t have to wait.
