Create a Plumbing Emergency Kit to Be Prepared for Unexpected Issues

What to Include in Your Plumbing Emergency Kit

Your emergency plumbing kit should contain everything you need to tackle the most common plumbing issues. Or at least minimise the mess and damage until a plumber can fix the issue properly. 

Here are some must-haves to get you started:

• Plunger: Every household should keep a plunger on hand for unclogging stubborn drains or toilets. This handy device creates suction around the clogged fixture to dislodge blockages in your pipes and restore water flow.

• Bucket and Towel: You should already have these items around your house, garage or shed and they’re multifunctional. Buckets and towels can minimise the spread of water and the area that needs cleaning. Look for buckets with strong handles, and towels that you don’t mind getting dirty as depending on the leak you may not want to use them again.

• Drain Snake or Auger: Like plungers, drain snakes or augers are perfect for clearing blockages. You can use them to reach down into your pipes to grab and remove hair, food scraps or other debris that can cause blockages. 

• Pliers Set: Strong pliers are good for tightening pipes that have worked loose or holding a tap closed under pressure. While one good pair of pliers is the basic requirement, having a range of sizes is recommended so you can tackle any pipe or fixture. For example, needle-nose pliers are good for reaching into small areas, slip-joint pliers can help with gripping and twisting objects and locking pliers allow you to apply steady pressure to a joint.

• Flashlight or Headlamp: While you can use the flashlight on your smartphone in a pinch, a high-quality flashlight or headlight is beneficial. You also won’t have to worry so much about getting them wet or dirty. A good light source will help you see into dark spaces such as under vanities or in kitchen cabinets so you locate the issue quickly.

• Adjustable Wrench: Like pliers, an adjustable wrench can help with tightening or loosening pipes or fittings to stop leaks or replace connections. They’re also useful for tightening loose taps, adjusting toilet flapper valves and other broken fixtures.

• Teflon or Plumber’s Tape: tape is useful for covering cracks or joins and creating a tight seal to prevent leaks short term. Basic duct tape (or any other tape you have on hand) can work for extremely short-term fixes, but specialised Teflon or plumber’s tape will last longer and be more effective for high-pressure leaks or if the plumber is a little while away.

• Leak-Stop Compound: Leak-stop compound is a sealant that can stop small, low-pressure leaks in pipes and fittings. You can apply it with a brush or cloth for a temporary fix until a professional plumber can make more permanent repairs. There are various types of leak-stop products, so make sure you get the one that’s designed for your pipe or fitting material (e.g. copper, PVC, etc.).

• Details for Your Local Emergency Plumber: And finally, the most important part of any emergency plumbing kit is the contact details for your local emergency plumbing service. The last thing you need in the middle of dealing with a burst pipe is to be searching the web for a reliable plumber who offers services after hours.

Why You Need a Plumbing Emergency Kit

By keeping these items on hand you can save time, money and reduce stress when a plumbing issue strikes. With a well-set-up plumbing kit, you can have peace of mind that you can tackle anything and hold out until a plumber can get to you.

While emergency plumbers are available 24/7, it can still take time for them to drive across town. Depending on the nature of the issue, every minute can count. A burst pipe can flood your room or house in minutes if not managed properly, leading to a massive clean-up to prevent mould growth down the track. But, by being prepared you can keep the mess and damage to a minimum.

Be Prepared For the Unexpected

Don’t sit up stressing about plumbing issues. Get prepared and rest easy knowing you’re ready to tackle anything.

And don’t forget that our emergency plumbers at Essendon Plumbing Services are on-call 24/7 to help manage your emergencies quickly and effectively. So, write this number down, or save it in your phone now, so you know exactly who to call if something happens: 1300 193 298.