Losing your home's supply of hot water is an immediate and frustrating disruption. It affects everything from cleaning and sanitation to your family’s comfort. While not every cold shower requires a frantic, middle-of-the-night call to a 24-hour plumber, some scenarios definitely qualify as a plumbing emergency. Understanding the difference can protect your home and save you money.

No Hot Water Plus a Water Leak is an Emergency

If your water heater has stopped producing hot water and you notice water pooling around the unit, that is a genuine crisis. This often signals a tank rupture, which can cause significant water damage very quickly. Turn off the water supply to the unit immediately and call Everett Plumbing and Drain for fast emergency service.

The Presence of Sulfur or Rotten Egg Smell

When a water heater fails, it can sometimes produce a strong, foul odor, often described as rotten eggs. For gas-powered units, this smell could indicate a gas leak, which is a severe health and safety risk. Evacuate the area immediately and call the gas company and a 24-hour plumber, like us, right away. Do not delay!

A Complete Loss of Hot Water in Freezing Weather

During the cold Colorado winter, a total loss of hot water is more than just inconvenient—it can lead to frozen or burst pipes. Hot water helps prevent the freezing of internal plumbing lines. If your water heater fails during a deep freeze, securing a prompt repair is critical to avoid costly pipe damage and a much larger emergency.

The Problem is a Gas Line Issue, Not the Water Heater

Sometimes the water heater itself isn't the problem; it's the gas line or the electrical connection. Attempting to DIY a repair on a gas or electrical line is extremely dangerous and illegal for homeowners. If you suspect an issue with the power source, it qualifies as an emergency that requires a licensed plumber with gas line expertise, like Everett Plumbing and Drain