5 Top Emergency Plumbing Problems in Toronto and How We Fix Them?

Plumbing problems never come at a good time. One minute, everything’s fine, the next, water is gushing from somewhere you didn’t even know existed. Toronto homes, especially the older ones in the GTA, face this more often than people think. Pipes crack in the winter, drains get blocked with hair or grease, and water heaters just stop working without warning. When it happens, it’s stressful, and sometimes scary. Knowing what usually goes wrong and what a plumber does to fix it helps you stay calm and act fast. Here are five emergencies we see all the time and how we handle them.

1. Burst Pipes

Winter is the main culprit here. Water freezes, it expands, and that’s often enough to crack a pipe. Sometimes it’s a tiny crack at first, barely noticeable. Then, suddenly, water is everywhere. You’ll notice damp spots on walls, puddles on the floor, or water pressure that drops without explanation.

When we get a burst pipe call, the first thing we do is shut off the main water supply. No point letting the house flood. Then we find exactly where the pipe broke. Depending on how bad it is, we either repair that section or replace it. For older houses, we check other pipes nearby because if one goes, others may be weak too. Using durable materials prevents the same thing from happening again. The key is acting fast. The longer you wait, the worse the damage, and trust me, it can get expensive quickly.

2. Blocked Drains

Clogged drains are annoying. Toilets stop flushing, sinks fill up, and showers get slow. Hair, grease, soap, little bits of food—any of that can create a blockage. A minor clog might just be frustrating. A serious one can cause sewage to back up, smells to spread, and sometimes pose health risks.

We usually start with a drain snake for smaller clogs. If that doesn’t work, hydro-jetting is the next step. High-pressure water blasts through pipes and clears stubborn build-up. In older homes, repeated clogs are often deeper issues, so we use cameras to inspect pipes and make sure there aren’t hidden problems. After we fix it, we tell homeowners simple things they can do to keep drains clear—like not pouring grease down the sink or using a strainer in the shower.

3. Water Heater Problems

Imagine getting ready for work and turning on the tap, and nothing’s hot. That’s the kind of morning a broken water heater creates. Sometimes it leaks, sometimes it’s noisy, sometimes it just stops heating. Rust around the tank or inconsistent water temperatures are common signs that it’s failing.

When called in, we first check if it can be fixed. Sediment build-up is often the problem. Flushing the tank sometimes fixes it entirely. If the unit is too old or damaged, we recommend a replacement and installing one suited to your house. We make sure everything is connected properly and up to code. In Toronto winters, a working water heater isn’t just nice—it’s necessary. Quick repairs prevent flooded basements and ruined mornings.

4. Sewer Line Backups

Sewer backups are nasty. Roots, debris, or broken pipes can block the line, and when that happens, wastewater can’t leave the home. You’ll notice slow drains, gurgling sounds, or horrible smells. In some cases, sewage can back up into your basement. That’s not just gross, it’s unsafe.

We handle these problems with minimal digging when possible. Camera inspections show the exact blockage, then we clear it with high-pressure water jets. If replacement is needed, we guide homeowners on materials that last longer and resist root damage. Acting quickly is crucial. Sewage backup spreads fast, and cleanup is expensive if delayed.

5. Leaks in Pipes and Fixtures

Small leaks might seem harmless. A dripping faucet, a slow leak behind a wall—they’re easy to ignore. But even tiny leaks waste water, cause stains, and eventually ruin floors or walls.

We use sensors and thermal cameras to find leaks, even hidden ones. Once located, we repair or replace the part causing trouble. We also check nearby pipes to stop another leak from forming soon after. Fixing leaks early saves water, money, and headaches. Most homeowners only notice leaks after serious damage appears. Catching it early is always better.

Why You Should Call a Professional

DIY plumbing fixes rarely work out. Pipes, drains, water heaters—they’re all connected. One wrong move, and a small problem turns into a full-blown emergency. Professionals bring experience, the right tools, and know-how to solve problems efficiently. In Toronto and the GTA, timing matters. Winter freezes, old pipes, and heavy rain can turn a minor leak into a flooded basement overnight. Calling experts fast saves both stress and money.

Simple Steps to Avoid Emergencies

While some emergencies are unavoidable, a few steps can reduce the risk:

• Inspect your pipes regularly, especially in unheated areas.
• Avoid pouring grease down the sink.
• Use strainers in drains to catch hair and debris.
• Insulate pipes that are exposed to cold.
• Keep an eye on water pressure. High pressure can stress pipes.
• Schedule a professional check once a year.

Final Thoughts

Plumbing emergencies can happen anytime. Burst pipes, blocked drains, broken water heaters, sewer backups, and hidden leaks are all things Toronto homeowners face regularly. Acting quickly matters. Rosedale Plumbing responds fast, uses the right tools, and solves problems properly. If you notice any warning signs or need urgent help, don’t wait. Call a professional. Protecting your home and avoiding bigger damage is always worth it.