Plumbing issues can happen at any time, but not all of them require immediate attention. Some problems, like a slow drain or a dripping faucet, can wait for a scheduled plumbing appointment. However, other issues—such as burst pipes, sewage backups, or gas leaks—demand urgent action from a 24-hour emergency plumber.
Knowing the difference between a true plumbing emergency and a minor issue can save you time, money, and potential property damage. At Beehive Plumbing, we specialize in emergency plumbing services across Utah, providing homeowners and businesses with fast, reliable solutions when urgent repairs are needed.
This guide will help you determine whether your plumbing issue requires immediate professional assistance or if it can wait for a scheduled repair.

What Qualifies as a Plumbing Emergency?
A plumbing emergency is any situation that requires immediate intervention to prevent severe property damage, health risks, or complete plumbing failure.
Signs You Need a 24-Hour Plumber
- The issue is causing water damage or flooding.
- There is a health or safety risk, such as sewage exposure or gas leaks.
- You have no running water or working toilets.
- Delaying service could lead to expensive repairs or structural damage.
For these situations, you should contact a trusted emergency plumber like Beehive Plumbing, available 24/7 for urgent repairs.
Plumbing Emergencies That Require Immediate Attention
1. Burst Pipes
A burst pipe is one of the most destructive plumbing emergencies. Pipes can burst due to freezing temperatures, high water pressure, or aging materials, causing significant water damage within minutes.
Why It’s an Emergency
- Flooding can ruin walls, flooring, and furniture.
- Water exposure can lead to mold growth and structural damage.
- Delaying repairs can result in higher water bills and extensive home damage.
What to Do
- Turn off the main water supply immediately.
- Move valuables away from the affected area.
- Call Beehive Plumbing’s emergency services for immediate pipe repair.
How Beehive Plumbing Can Help
- Emergency leak detection and pipe repair.
- Trenchless repair options to minimize property disruption.
- Preventative maintenance to reduce the risk of future pipe bursts.
2. Sewer Backups and Overflowing Toilets
A sewer backup or overflowing toilet is a major plumbing emergency that requires immediate attention to prevent health risks and property damage.
Why It’s an Emergency
- Sewage contains harmful bacteria and toxins that pose serious health risks.
- A severe blockage can cause wastewater to back up into sinks, tubs, and other fixtures.
- Prolonged exposure to contaminated water can damage floors and drywall.
What to Do
- Stop using any plumbing fixtures until the issue is resolved.
- If the toilet is overflowing, shut off the toilet’s water supply.
- Call Beehive Plumbing immediately for emergency drain and sewer repair.
How Beehive Plumbing Can Help
- 24/7 rooter services and sewer line repair.
- Advanced video inspections to pinpoint sewer blockages.
- Hydro jetting services to clear tough clogs and restore proper drainage.
3. No Running Water
If you suddenly lose water supply, it could indicate a major plumbing failure that requires emergency service.
Why It’s an Emergency
- You cannot bathe, cook, or clean without running water.
- A broken water line may be leaking inside walls, leading to unseen damage.
- The issue could be due to a municipal water supply problem or frozen pipes.
What to Do
- Check with neighbors to see if they are experiencing the same issue.
- Inspect exposed pipes for signs of freezing or leaks.
- Call an emergency plumber to diagnose and restore water service.
How Beehive Plumbing Can Help
- Water line repair and replacement services.
- Leak detection technology to identify hidden pipe damage.
- Quick emergency response to restore water supply.
4. Water Heater Failure (Leaks or No Hot Water)
A failing water heater can be a major inconvenience and, in some cases, a plumbing emergency.
Why It’s an Emergency
- A leaking water heater can flood your home.
- No hot water affects bathing, sanitation, and cooking.
- Gas-powered water heaters with malfunctions can pose safety risks.
What to Do
- If the water heater is leaking, turn off the water supply to prevent further damage.
- If you smell gas near the unit, shut off the gas and evacuate.
- Contact Beehive Plumbing for emergency water heater service.
How Beehive Plumbing Can Help
- Emergency water heater repairs and replacements.
- Service for both tank and tankless water heaters.
- Routine maintenance plans to prevent sudden failures.
Visit our Water Heater Repair and Installation Page to learn more.
Plumbing Issues That Can Wait for a Scheduled Appointment
Some plumbing problems, while inconvenient, do not require immediate service. These include:
- Dripping faucets or minor leaks
- Slow drains that are not completely blocked
- Running toilets
- Low water pressure issues
For these situations, Beehive Plumbing offers scheduled maintenance and repair services to address issues before they become emergencies.
Why Choose Beehive Plumbing as Your Emergency Plumber?
1. 24/7 Emergency Plumbing Services
- Fast response times for urgent repairs.
- Available day and night to prevent further damage.
2. Certified and Experienced Plumbers
- Licensed professionals with expertise in emergency plumbing repairs.
- Advanced tools and technology for fast, effective solutions.
3. Upfront Pricing with No Hidden Fees
- Transparent pricing with no surprises.
4. Full-Service Plumbing Solutions
- From burst pipes to sewer backups, we handle it all.
Visit our 24-Hour Emergency Plumbing Services Page to learn more.
Conclusion
Not all plumbing issues require immediate emergency service, but knowing when to call a 24-hour plumber can save you time, money, and stress.
At Beehive Plumbing, we provide fast, professional emergency plumbing services across Utah. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a sewer backup, or a water heater failure, our team is ready to help.
If you’re experiencing a plumbing emergency, call Beehive Plumbing now for immediate assistance.