A plumbing emergency always seems to strike when you least expect it—and usually at the worst possible time. Whether it’s a burst pipe, backed-up sewer, or overflowing toilet, knowing how to respond quickly can help minimize damage and restore order to your home.
At A&R Mechanical, we provide 24/7 emergency plumbing services in Amarillo to help homeowners through stressful situations. If you’ve just experienced a plumbing disaster, here’s what to do next.
Step 1: Shut Off the Water
The first step in any plumbing emergency is to stop the flow of water. Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve and turn it off immediately. In some cases, such as an overflowing toilet or leaking appliance, you can shut off the water supply to just that fixture.
If you’re not sure where your shut-off valve is or how to use it, now is a good time to locate it—before the next emergency hits. It can be either inside or outside the home, often near the water heater. Common areas include the laundry room, basement, utility room, or garage.
Step 2: Turn Off Electricity (If Necessary)
If water is pooling near electrical outlets, appliances, or your breaker box, turn off electricity to the affected area. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix, and your safety should be the top priority. Standing water can conduct electricity, so be sure to steer clear of water that may be electrified. If you can’t safely access the breaker panel, wait for professional help.
Step 3: Address Standing Water
Use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up standing water and prevent further damage to floors, walls, or furniture. The quicker you act, the better chance you have of preventing mold growth, structural damage, or costly repairs.
Move items like rugs, electronics, and valuables to a dry area. If you suspect contaminated water from a sewer backup, avoid contact and let a professional handle the cleanup.
Step 4: Call a Professional Plumber
After controlling the immediate situation, the next step is to call in the experts. But you may be wondering: who to call for a plumbing emergency in Amarillo?
A&R Mechanical is available 24/7 with fast, dependable service. Whether it’s day, night, weekend, or holiday, our team is ready to help you get back to normal as quickly as possible.
Step 5: Document the Damage
If your plumbing emergency caused property damage, take photos or videos of the affected areas before any repairs begin. This documentation will be helpful if you need to file a homeowner’s insurance claim.
Keep records of all plumbing services performed, including itemized invoices and written estimates.
Step 6: Ask About Repair Options and Costs
One of the first questions we hear from homeowners is, “How much does an emergency plumber cost?” The answer depends on the type and severity of the problem, the time of day, and how extensive the repair is.
At A&R Mechanical, we offer clear pricing and estimates, even during emergency calls. We’ll walk you through your options, explain the scope of work, and get started once you approve the plan.
Step 7: Take Steps to Prevent it from Happening Again
Once the immediate crisis is over, take steps to reduce the chances of it happening again. Consider:
- Scheduling annual plumbing inspections
- Replacing aging or corroded pipes
- Installing water leak detectors
- Insulating pipes to prevent freezing
- Learning where all your shut-off valves are located
- Our team can help you identify weak spots in your plumbing system and offer affordable solutions to protect your home long term.
Recover Faster with A&R Mechanical
A plumbing emergency can feel overwhelming—but with the right response and the right team on your side, recovery doesn’t have to be stressful.
At A&R Mechanical, we’re proud to provide fast, friendly, and reliable emergency plumbing services in Amarillo. Whether you’re dealing with a burst pipe, a clogged drain, or a backed-up sewer line, we’re available 24/7 to restore your home and peace of mind.
If you’re facing a plumbing emergency or want to take preventative action, contact A&R Mechanical today for an estimate or immediate service. We’re here when you need us most.
