1. Shut off the water
One fixture: close the valve under the sink or behind the toilet (turn clockwise).
Whole house: find the main shutoff. In most Central Florida homes it's on an outside wall where the line comes in, often near a hose bib, or in the meter box near the street. A meter key or adjustable wrench helps. Find yours now, before you need it.
2. Turn off the water heater if it's involved
For an electric heater, switch off its breaker. For gas, turn the control to pilot or off. Close the cold water valve on top of the tank.
3. Protect your home
Move electronics, rugs and furniture out of the water. Mop up what you can and run fans. If water is near outlets or the electrical panel, stay clear and turn off power at the breaker if it's safe to do so.
4. Take photos
Photograph the leak and any damage before cleanup. It helps with insurance claims.
5. Call a plumber who actually answers
Patch Plumbing answers 24/7 for real emergencies at (386) 235-6123. Tell us what happened, what you've shut off, and whether water is still flowing. See 24/7 emergency plumbing.
Need a plumber in Volusia County?
$99 diagnostic, waived with approved work. Firm price before we start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a clogged toilet be an emergency?
If it's your only toilet or it's overflowing and won't stop, yes. If you have another working toilet and the water is under control, it can usually wait for regular hours.
What if my main shutoff won't turn?
Don't force it with a cheater bar; old valves can break. Shut off at the meter if you can, and call us. We often replace stuck main valves.