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South Puget Sound Water Emergencies: Steps to Take Before Help Arrives

RossCo Service Plumbers provides rapid response for emergency plumbing in Tacoma to ensure your home returns to normal as fast as possible. We recognize that a plumbing crisis happens when you least expect it; acting quickly helps limit property damage. This guide explains how to secure your property while our licensed team is en route.

The RossCo Shut-Off Protocol

Finding your main water valve is the most important step during a flood. RossCo Service Plumbers provides this protocol to help you stop water flow fast. Most homes in the South Puget Sound area have valves in three common spots.

  1. First, check the garage for a pipe protruding from the floor or wall near the water heater. Look for a handle that resembles a wheel or lever. If the handle is a wheel, turn it to the right until it stops.
  1. Second, look for a small metal or plastic door in the sidewalk or near the street curb. This is the water meter box. Inside, you will see a valve that requires a tool or a strong turn to close. RossCo Service Plumbers recommends knowing where this is before an emergency happens.
  1. Third, check the crawl space or basement where the main water line enters the house. Many homes in Puyallup and Orting have crawl spaces, with the shut-off near the front of the house. Once you find the valve, turn it clockwise to stop the water.

If the valve has a lever handle, pull it so it is not pointing in the same direction as the pipe. Water should stop flowing from your faucets once the valve is fully closed. This simple action prevents thousands of gallons of water from entering your living space.

Immediate Actions for Burst Pipes

Burst pipes often happen during cold snaps in the South Puget Sound region. RossCo Service Plumbers identifies burst pipes as a top priority for immediate repair. Once the main water is off, open your faucets to drain the remaining water from the system.

This relieves the pressure inside the pipes and stops the leaking faster. Use buckets or towels to collect any water still dripping from the ceiling or walls. RossCo Service Plumbers suggests moving furniture and electronics away from the wet area immediately.

If the burst pipe is near electrical outlets or your breaker box, turn off the electricity to that part of the house. Water and electricity are dangerous when they mix. Safety remains the most important factor while you wait for our arrival.

Managing Sewer Line Backups

A sewer backup is a health hazard that requires professional attention. RossCo Service Plumbers offers efficient clearing and repair to prevent these hazards from spreading. If you see water coming up through your floor drains or tubs, stop using all water in the house.

Do not flush toilets or run the dishwasher when you suspect a sewer line issue. This prevents more waste from backing up into your sinks or showers. Our team uses specific tools to clear these blockages and restore proper drainage.

Keep children and pets away from the affected area to avoid contact with contaminated water. RossCo Service Plumbers arrived prepared to handle these situations with the right equipment and safety gear. We serve Pierce County areas, including Lakewood, Auburn, and Bonney Lake.

Preparing Your Home for Our Arrival

RossCo Service Plumbers sends licensed and certified plumbing contractors to your door. You can help our team work faster by clearing a path to the problem area. Move any boxes or household items away from the sinks, water heaters, or crawl space entrances.

If the issue is under the house, ensure the crawl space opening is accessible and clear of debris. Our plumbers need enough space to bring in tools and replacement parts. Providing a clear work area allows us to start repairing the moment we arrive.

If you have pets, please secure them in a different room or a crate. This keeps your animals safe and allows our technicians to move freely through your home. RossCo Service Plumbers values a safe environment for both our workers and your family.

Further Reading:

Securing Your Property and Limiting Damage

Taking these steps helps protect your property from the long-term effects of water damage. RossCo Service Plumbers arrives with the expertise needed to resolve leaks and blockages quickly. 

We provide free estimates for all our plumbing repair services in the greater Pierce County area. Our licensed plumbers take the time to identify the cause of the problem to ensure a lasting solution. 

Call RossCo Service Plumbers now to schedule your immediate emergency plumbing in Tacoma.

Plumbing License #: ROSSCPL788B7

General Contractor License #: ROSSCSP755LZ