It’s 2 a.m. and you hear water rushing behind your walls, your worst homeowner nightmare just came true. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a backed-up sewer line, or water flooding your floors, plumbing emergencies don’t wait for business hours. That’s why having a reliable, local 24/7 plumber in Mesa, Tempe, or Phoenix isn’t just a luxury- it’s peace of mind.
In this guide, we’ll break down what qualifies as an emergency, the immediate steps to take to prevent major damage, and why homeowners across the Valley keep Pipe Masters Plumbing on speed dial.
Pro tip: Save our number now – you’ll thank us when your kitchen floods: 480-707-3067
What Counts as a Plumbing Emergency?
Not every plumbing issue needs immediate attention, but some problems can cause significant damage within minutes. Understanding what qualifies as a plumbing emergency helps you act quickly and avoid costly repairs.
Here are some of the most common plumbing emergencies:
Burst pipes
When a pipe bursts, it can release gallons of water into your home in a matter of minutes. This can damage walls, flooring, furniture, and even the foundation if left unaddressed.
Sewer system backups
If you notice multiple clogged drains, foul odors, or sewage coming up through toilets or drains, you could be facing a dangerous sewer line backup. This is both a health hazard and a structural threat.
Slab leaks
Leaks under the concrete foundation are hard to detect and often go unnoticed until there is visible damage. Slab leaks can lead to mold, weakened foundations, and major repair costs if not addressed quickly.
Overflowing toilets or sinks
A clogged toilet that begins to overflow or a sink that backs up with no drainage can quickly turn into a flooded bathroom or kitchen.
No water or hot water
A total loss of water supply, or hot water in colder months, can be considered an emergency depending on the season and circumstances. It often signals a deeper issue with your plumbing or water heater.
Flooded basements or crawl spaces
Water in low-lying areas of your home is a red flag. Whether it’s from a broken sump pump or heavy rains, standing water can destroy belongings and lead to mold growth.
If water is actively causing damage, if you’re at risk of contamination, or if your plumbing issue disrupts your ability to live in your home safely, it qualifies as an emergency. When in doubt, call a professional plumber to evaluate the situation before it gets worse.
What to Do Immediately if You Have a Burst Pipe
A burst pipe can escalate from a small inconvenience to a major disaster in minutes. Acting quickly can limit the damage and give your plumber a better chance of resolving the issue efficiently.
Here’s what to do the moment you realize a pipe has burst in your home:
1.) Shut off the main water supply
Find your home’s main shutoff valve and turn it off immediately. This stops more water from flowing through the damaged pipe and limits how much water escapes. In most Arizona homes, the main valve is located near the front hose bib or where the water line enters the house.
2.) Turn off your water heater
After shutting off the water supply, turn off your water heater to avoid overheating or damage. If it’s a gas unit, switch the gas valve to the off position. For electric systems, shut it off at the breaker box.
3.) Drain the remaining water
Open all faucets and flush the toilets to drain the water still in your pipes. This helps reduce pressure in the system and clears the lines for inspection and repair.
4.) Turn off electricity if water is near outlets
If the burst pipe has caused water to come in contact with outlets, appliances, or electrical panels, shut off power to the affected areas at your breaker box. Do not enter standing water that may be in contact with electricity.
5.) Move valuables and soak up water
Remove any furniture, rugs, electronics, or personal items that may be in danger. If it’s safe, begin mopping up or soaking water with towels to prevent further damage and mold growth.
6.) Call a 24/7 plumber
Once the situation is stable, call a licensed plumber who offers emergency services. Time is critical. A plumber with 24/7 availability can assess the damage, stop the leak at its source, and begin repairs without delay.
At Pipe Masters, we respond to burst pipe emergencies throughout Mesa, Tempe, Phoenix, and the surrounding East Valley– day or night. We’re equipped to handle everything from detection to full repair so you can get back to normal as quickly as possible.
Why You Need a Local 24/7 Plumber You Can Trust
Plumbing emergencies don’t wait until business hours. When a pipe bursts in the middle of the night or your bathroom floods during a holiday, you need someone who will answer the phone and show up quickly.
That’s where a dependable 24/7 plumber makes all the difference.
Response time matters
In a plumbing emergency, every minute counts. Water damage spreads fast, soaking into drywall, flooring, and insulation. Mold can start forming in as little as 24 hours. A 24/7 plumber gets to your home faster, limiting both the damage and the cost of repairs.
No waiting until Monday
A local emergency plumber is available nights, weekends, and holidays—because plumbing problems rarely happen at a convenient time. Whether it’s 10 p.m. or 4 a.m., you’ll get real help, not an answering machine.
Local means faster service
Hiring a local plumber means they know your neighborhood, your water system, and how to navigate your city quickly. At Pipe Masters, we’re based in Mesa with an additional office in Tempe, and we serve all of Phoenix and the East Valley. When you call, we’re already nearby.
Better communication and accountability
Working with a local company gives you a personal connection. You’re not just a name in a database—you’re a neighbor. That means better communication, more reliable follow-up, and a company that stands behind its work.
Emergency plumbing is a specialty
Not all plumbers handle emergencies. Some will schedule you days out, even if your home is flooding. At Pipe Masters, we’re trained and equipped to respond to urgent situations, from sewer backups to slab leaks. You’ll never be left waiting while your home is at risk.
Having a 24/7 plumber on speed dial offers peace of mind. You may not need us every day, but when you do, you’ll be glad you didn’t wait to find someone.
What Tools and Technology Do Emergency Plumbers Use?
When every second matters, the right tools can mean the difference between a quick fix and a major restoration job. Emergency plumbers come prepared with specialized equipment to diagnose and resolve problems efficiently, without unnecessary demolition or guesswork.
Leak detection equipment
Advanced leak detection tools allow plumbers to pinpoint hidden problems behind walls, under slabs, or within ceilings without opening up your home unnecessarily.
This may include:
- Acoustic listening devices to detect pipe vibrations
- Infrared thermal imaging to spot temperature changes from leaking water
- Pressure testing tools to identify breaks in the system
Sewer cameras and inspection scopes
For suspected sewer line issues or backups, plumbers use waterproof cameras to inspect the inside of pipes. This helps locate blockages, breaks, or root intrusion without digging up your yard or flooring.
High-powered water extraction and cleanup gear
Many emergency plumbing teams also carry water removal equipment, such as wet vacuums and pumps. This helps reduce water damage during the initial response, especially in flood-prone areas like basements or crawl spaces.
Temporary repair materials
In an emergency, getting the leak under control is the first priority. Plumbers may use temporary pipe clamps, shut-off caps, or reroute water lines until permanent repairs can be completed safely.
Documentation tools for insurance
Experienced plumbers will also document the scene for insurance claims. This may include photos of damage, detailed repair invoices, and moisture readings to support your case.
At Pipe Masters, our emergency response team comes fully equipped to handle any situation. We rely on modern diagnostic tools and proven techniques to solve problems quickly while minimizing damage to your home.
Why Home Insurance and Plumbing Warranties Matter
When a plumbing emergency strikes, your first concern is stopping the damage. But once things are under control, the next question is often, “Will insurance cover this?”
In most cases, standard homeowners insurance will cover sudden and accidental water damage, such as from a burst pipe or a failed water heater, as long as the damage wasn’t caused by neglect or long-term wear. That means the cost to repair flooring, drywall, or belongings may be reimbursed. However, the cost to fix the actual pipe or appliance that caused the damage is usually not covered unless you have additional protection.
That’s where plumbing warranties or service line endorsements can help. Some plans cover the repair or replacement of water lines, sewer pipes, and internal plumbing components. If you live in an older home or have had plumbing issues before, it may be worth considering.
No matter the situation, always keep detailed receipts, before-and-after photos, and a copy of your plumber’s repair report. These can be essential for filing a claim and ensuring you’re reimbursed for covered losses. A licensed plumber like Pipe Masters can help document the damage properly and provide everything needed for your insurance provider.
How to Prevent Plumbing Emergencies Before They Happen
Not every plumbing emergency can be avoided, but many are the result of small issues that went unnoticed or were ignored for too long.
With routine care and a few preventative steps, you can reduce the risk of a burst pipe, sewer backup, or major leak.
Schedule regular plumbing inspections
Have a licensed plumber inspect your system at least once a year. They can spot early signs of corrosion, slow leaks, or failing fixtures before they turn into emergencies. Inspections are especially important in older homes or homes with a history of leaks.
Know where your main water shutoff valve is
If a pipe bursts, the first thing you need to do is shut off the water. Every household member should know the location of the main shutoff valve and how to use it. In Arizona homes, it’s often outside near the front hose bib.
Watch for early warning signs
Pay attention to low water pressure, rust-colored water, recurring clogs, musty smells, or water stains on walls or ceilings. These are often the first clues that something is wrong behind the scenes.
Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners
They may seem like a quick fix, but over time, chemical cleaners can erode your pipes and lead to premature leaks. Use a drain snake or call a plumber for persistent clogs instead.
Protect pipes in cold weather
While Arizona rarely experiences freezing conditions, a sudden drop in temperature can still cause exposed pipes to freeze and burst. Wrap outdoor pipes with insulation when freezing weather is forecasted.
Consider a sump pump and backup system
For homes with basements or low-lying areas, a sump pump can prevent flooding during heavy rains or pipe failures. Adding a battery backup ensures the pump keeps working during power outages.
Pipe Masters also offers preventative maintenance services to help identify vulnerabilities in your plumbing system. A proactive approach not only saves money but also gives you peace of mind knowing your home is protected.
Why Arizona Homeowners Choose Pipe Masters
When a plumbing emergency happens, you don’t just need a plumber, you need a trusted local expert who can show up fast, fix the issue right the first time, and treat your home with care. That’s exactly what Pipe Masters delivers.
Licensed, bonded, and insured
We’re fully certified under Arizona ROC License Numbers 352213 and 357575. You can count on our team to provide code-compliant service with professionalism and integrity.
True 24/7 emergency availability
We don’t use call centers or subcontractors. When you contact Pipe Masters, you’re getting a trained, in-house technician who’s ready to respond- day or night. Whether it’s a burst pipe at 3 a.m. or a flooded crawl space on a Sunday afternoon, we’ll be there.
Fast response times in the East Valley and beyond
With offices in both Mesa and Tempe, we’re strategically located to serve the entire Phoenix metro area. Our team is always nearby and can typically respond within the hour to homes in Mesa, Tempe, Phoenix, Gilbert, Chandler, Queen Creek, and Scottsdale.
No surprise pricing
Plumbing emergencies are stressful enough without worrying about hidden costs. We provide clear, upfront pricing and walk you through your options before any work begins.
Reputation for quality and respect
Our team is known for showing up on time, working clean, and treating every home like our own. We wear uniforms, use floor protection, and clean up after every job. Many of our emergency calls come from referrals and repeat customers who trust us to handle high-pressure situations with care.
Pipe Masters isn’t just a plumbing company; we’re your partner in home protection. When the unexpected happens, we’re ready to get to work.
Conclusion: Plumbing Emergencies Happen, Be Ready
No homeowner expects to wake up to a flooded kitchen or sewage backing up into the tub, but these things happen, and usually at the worst possible times. Knowing what qualifies as a plumbing emergency, what to do in those first few moments, and who to call can make all the difference between a quick fix and a costly disaster.
Pipe Masters is proud to be the go-to 24/7 plumber for homeowners across the East Valley. From burst pipe repairs to sewer backups and everything in between, we’re always on call and ready to help.
Save our number now. You’ll thank us when your kitchen floods.
Call Pipe Masters any time, day or night, for emergency plumbing service: (480) 707-3067
Serving Arizona homes from Phoenix to Queen Creek, including Mesa, Tempe, Gilbert, Chandler, and surrounding areas.
At Pipe Masters Plumbing, customer satisfaction is our top priority. We understand the importance of having a reliable plumbing system, whether it’s for everyday convenience in a home or critical functionality in a commercial establishment. Our team of highly skilled and certified plumbers is committed to delivering top-notch service that exceeds all expectations.
