Plumbing problems are never convenient, but some can’t wait until morning. Whether it’s a burst pipe in the middle of the night or a backed-up sewer line during a weekend family gathering, knowing when to call for emergency plumbing can save your home, your sanity, and your wallet.
At Holt Plumbing & Heating, we’ve spent over 75 years helping Iowa families handle plumbing problems quickly, calmly, and with trusted expertise. In this guide, we’ll walk through what counts as a plumbing emergency, how we respond, and what you can do to minimize damage while you wait.
1. What Is Considered a Plumbing Emergency?
Not every plumbing issue is an emergency. But if the situation puts your home, health, or safety at risk – or causes active water damage – it qualifies. Here’s what to watch for:
Burst or Leaking Pipes
A burst pipe can release gallons of water in minutes, damaging walls, floors, insulation, and wiring. Leaks behind walls or under sinks can quietly cause major mold and structural issues.
When to call: Immediately. Shut off the water at the main valve and call us 24/7.
Sewer Backups
If sewage is backing up into your sinks, toilets, or tubs, you have a health hazard on your hands. This requires immediate professional intervention.
When to call: As soon as you notice sewage smells, slow drains in multiple fixtures, or visible backup.
Overflowing Toilet (That Won’t Stop)
A clogged toilet is inconvenient. But if water is spilling over and won’t stop, it can lead to contaminated water damage fast, especially if you only have one bathroom.
When to call: Immediately, especially if standard plunging doesn’t solve it.
Water Heater Leaks or Failure
No hot water? Rust-colored water? Water pooling around your heater? These can signal a failing tank, which could rupture.
When to call: If water is leaking or the unit shows signs of rust, corrosion, or strange noises.
Frozen Pipes
In Iowa winters, frozen pipes are a real threat. Left untreated, they can burst and flood your home.
When to call: As soon as you suspect a frozen pipe, before it bursts.
2. Common Plumbing Issues That Can Wait
While we’re always here for you, not every issue needs an after-hours visit. Here are some common problems that can usually wait until regular business hours:
- A slow drain in one sink
- A small drip under the faucet (with water off)
- Low water pressure (unless sudden and system-wide)
- Running toilet (not overflowing)
- Routine clogs in kitchen or bathroom drains
If you’re unsure whether your issue counts as an emergency, give us a call, and we’ll help you determine the best next step with honesty and care.
3. How Holt Plumbing & Heating Responds
24/7 Emergency Service
Plumbing disasters don’t stick to business hours, and neither do we. Holt Plumbing & Heating offers 24-hour emergency plumbing throughout Central Iowa. Nights, weekends, holidays – you can count on us!
Real People, Real Help
When you call us after hours, you don’t get a robot. You’ll speak to a real person who will help you assess the urgency and dispatch one of our licensed, background-checked technicians if needed.
Fully Stocked Trucks
Our emergency response teams come prepared with the tools and parts needed to stop damage and make effective repairs right away.
Transparent Pricing
Even during emergencies, you’ll get flat-rate pricing so you’re not left guessing. No surprise hourly charges. No hidden fees.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We stand behind every emergency repair with the same guarantee we offer for scheduled work. Your comfort and peace of mind are our mission.
4. What to Do Before the Plumber Arrives
While our team is on the way, here are a few steps you can take to protect your home:
Shut Off the Main Water Valve
If you’re dealing with a burst pipe, overflowing fixture, or major leak, shutting off the main valve will stop the water flow and prevent further damage. Don’t know where your shut-off valve is? Take a few minutes today to locate it. It’s usually in the basement or along an exterior wall.
Contain the Leak
Use buckets, towels, or pans to catch water and protect flooring or furniture. Move electronics or valuables away from wet areas.
Turn Off Power (If Needed)
If water is pooling near outlets or electrical wiring, shut off the circuit breaker to avoid shocks or fire risk.
Avoid DIY Fixes with Chemicals
Avoid pouring drain-clearing chemicals into clogs or backups. These can damage your pipes and pose a danger to our technicians during emergency repairs.
5. Why Homeowners Trust Holt in a Crisis
When water’s gushing or sewage is backing up, you don’t have time to vet Google reviews or compare quotes. You need someone you already trust.
At Holt Plumbing & Heating, we’ve been helping Iowans through stressful plumbing emergencies since 1947. We combine:
- Generations of expertise
- Friendly, professional service
- Fast, reliable response, day or night
We treat your emergency like it’s happening in our own home, and we’ll never upsell or recommend work you don’t need. That’s a promise.
6. How to Prevent Plumbing Emergencies
While not all emergencies are preventable, regular maintenance goes a long way in reducing risk. Here’s how you can stay ahead:
- Schedule annual inspections
- Drain and flush your water heater
- Insulate pipes before winter
- Fix small leaks early
- Join our Holt Membership Program for priority service and discounts
Plumbing emergencies can feel overwhelming, but with the right response, they don’t have to become a disaster. The key is knowing when to call, acting quickly, and having a trusted team on your side.
Whether it’s 3 a.m. or Sunday afternoon, let Holt handle that. We’re here when you need us.
