Plumbing issues can be costly! Here's how to spot them

YUCK! Phil Schumacher, of Prime Plumbing and Drains, shows Patty a corroded water heater element.

It’s winter and all sorts of plumbing issues can come up. Great Day TV host Patty Spitler recommends Prime Plumbing and Drains and recently spoke with owner Phil Schumacher about what his company offers.

At Prime Plumbing & Drains, we take pride in being the first-round draft pick for home and business owners throughout Noblesville, Fishers, Carmel, Westfield, and Greater Indianapolis. We are ready to handle everything from routine maintenance to urgent plumbing emergencies, like tackling stubborn clogs, repairing leaks, and ensuring your water systems run flawlessly. We work 24/7 to help customers with their plumbing needs.

Plumbing issues can start small, but if ignored, they can quickly turn into costly emergencies. A leaking pipe, a slow drain or an unusual gurgling sound might not seem urgent at first, but these are often warning signs of bigger problems ahead. Learning how to recognize plumbing emergencies early can save you thousands in repairs and prevent extensive damage to your home. Here’s how to spot them and what to do before they escalate.

Burst pipes – immediate action required

One of the most damaging plumbing emergencies is a burst pipe. It can release gallons of water in minutes, flooding your home and causing severe structural damage. 

Check for signs of a potential burst pipe:

• Unexplained water stains on walls or ceilings

• A sudden drop in water pressure

• Puddles forming near pipes or fixtures

• Strange hissing or banging sounds in the walls

What to Do

• Shut off the main water supply immediately.

• Open faucets to drain excess water from the system.

• Call us to assess and repair the damage.

Phil Schumacher cleans a customer's drain.

Overflowing toilets – more than just a clog

A clogged toilet is frustrating, but when it overflows, it becomes an emergency. This can happen due to a blockage in the sewer line, excessive flushing of non-flushable items or even a malfunctioning septic system.

Warning signs

• Water rising instead of flushing down

• Gurgling noises from drains

• Slow drainage in other fixtures (like sinks and tubs)

What to do

• Turn off the toilet’s water supply valve.

• Try using a plunger or plumbing snake.

• If multiple drains are affected, call us immediately—it could indicate a sewer backup.

No running water – a sign of a bigger issue

If your home suddenly loses water, it could indicate a serious problem, such as a main water line break or frozen pipes. This not only disrupts daily activities but can also lead to major plumbing repairs.

Signs to watch for

• Low or no water flow from faucets

• Unusual noises when turning on taps

• Cold weather conditions that may freeze pipes

What to do

• Check with neighbors to see if the issue is widespread.

• Inspect visible pipes for signs of freezing or damage.

• Call our plumbers if the issue isn’t due to a local water service problem.

Water heater failure – avoid cold showers

Your water heater works hard daily, but when it fails, it can cause more than just an inconvenience. A leaking water heater can lead to flooding, while a malfunctioning unit may cause dangerous pressure buildup.

Red flags

• Rust-colored water coming from taps

• Unusual popping or rumbling sounds from the heater

• A leaking tank or pooling water underneath the unit

What to do

• Turn off the power (electric or gas) to the water heater.

• Shut off the water supply to prevent further leaks.

• Call us to inspect and repair or replace the unit.

Recognizing plumbing emergencies early can save you time, money and stress. If you notice any warning signs—low water pressure, slow drains, leaks or unusual noises—don’t ignore them. Addressing these issues before they escalate can prevent expensive repairs and protect your home.

For more information or to book a service call, visit https://primeplumbingdrains.com/