Plumbing Problem Checker
Not sure how serious your plumbing issue is? Answer a few quick questions to get general guidance on leaks, toilets, faucets, water heaters, sump pumps, water pressure, frozen pipes, and other common plumbing concerns.
This checker is for general plumbing problems that are not drain or sewer related. If you are dealing with clogged drains, sewer smells, floor drain backups, or multiple fixtures backing up, use our Drain Problem Checker instead.
This tool is for general guidance only and does not replace an on-site diagnosis by a licensed plumbing professional.
This checker can help with
- Active leaks or water damage
- Toilet, faucet, sink, shower, or tub issues
- No hot water or water heater concerns
- Sump pump or basement water concerns
- Low water pressure or frozen pipe concerns
Plumbing Problem Checker
Answer a few quick questions to understand how urgent your plumbing issue may be and what the next step should be.
This checker is for general plumbing issues like leaks, toilets, faucets, water heaters, sump pumps, and water pressure concerns. For clogged drains, sewer backups, floor drain issues, or multiple fixtures backing up, please use our Drain Problem Checker or contact Birnie Plumbing & Drains directly.
Plumbing Problem FAQs
When should I call a plumber for a leak?
You should call a plumber when water is actively leaking, water damage is spreading, a shutoff valve will not stop the water, or you are unsure where the leak is coming from. If water is near electrical, treat it as urgent.
What should I do if water is leaking right now?
If it is safe, shut off the nearest fixture valve or the main water supply. Avoid touching electrical devices or outlets near water. Move items away from the leak if possible and call for plumbing service.
Is no hot water an emergency?
No hot water is not always an emergency, but it should be checked if the water heater is leaking, making unusual noises, producing rusty water, or affecting the whole home.
What does low water pressure mean?
Low water pressure can be caused by fixture issues, shutoff valves, supply line problems, pressure-reducing valves, water heater issues, or whole-home supply concerns. If the whole home is affected, it should be checked.
What should I do if my sump pump is not working?
Check power only if it is safe to do so. If the pit is filling, water is entering the basement, or the pump is not keeping up, call for service. A failed sump pump can quickly lead to basement water damage.
What should I do if I think a pipe is frozen?
Do not use an open flame. If you see a split, bulge, or leak, shut off the water if safe and call a plumber. Frozen pipes can burst and cause significant damage.
Should I force a stuck shutoff valve?
No. Forcing a stuck valve can break it and create a leak. If a shutoff valve is seized, leaking, or will not close fully, it should be repaired or replaced.
What plumbing issues should be treated as urgent?
Active leaks, water near electrical, water that cannot be shut off, leaking water heaters, burst or damaged pipes, sump pump failure with rising water, and water spreading into finished areas should be treated as urgent.
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