Minute by minute

Minute 1
Tell everyone in the house to stop using water: no flushing, showers, dishwasher or laundry.
Minute 2
If a fixture is overflowing clean water, close its shutoff valve. If you cannot, close the main water shutoff.
Minutes 3-4
Move people and pets out of the affected room and close the door.
Minutes 5-6
Check which drains are affected: one fixture, a bathroom, or the lowest drains in the house.
Minutes 7-8
Look outside for water at the sewer cleanout. Do not remove the cap.
Minutes 9-10
Take photos from a safe spot, then contact a licensed plumber with what you found.

Triage checklist

Where is it coming from?

  • IfOne fixture overflowing clean waterThenClose that fixture's valve; it is a clog or supply problem, not sewage.
  • IfThe tub, shower or floor drain filling with dirty waterThenA main line backup. Stop water use and call a plumber.
  • IfWater bubbling from the outdoor cleanoutThenThe lateral is full. Keep people away and call.
  • IfNeighbors also backing up, or a street manhole overflowingThenContact the City of Anaheim; the public main may be blocked.

Keep these handy

Main water shutoff
Write its location here: ______
Sewer cleanout
Write its location here: ______
Your plumber
Write a licensed contractor you have checked: ______
City water utility
Anaheim Public Utilities

What to tell the plumber

  1. Which drains backed up and in what order?
  2. Is it clean water or sewage?
  3. Where is the cleanout, and is it accessible?
  4. Has this happened before, and when?

Common questions

Should I try to plunge during a backup?

Not if several drains are involved. Plunging does not clear a main line and can push sewage out of other openings.

Can I turn the water back on once things settle?

You can restore the supply for drinking water, but avoid sending water down drains until the line is cleared.

Is a backup an emergency?

Sewage inside the house is a health risk and is generally treated as urgent. A slow drain with no overflow can usually wait for a scheduled visit.

General information for Anaheim, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.