Plumbing vs. HVAC Emergencies: Who Do You Call First?

7:12 a.m., Tuesday Morning

You’re pouring coffee in the kitchen, half-listening to the weather report on the radio. The house feels oddly cold for spring, and a chill creeps in around your toes. Curious, you check the thermostat. It’s set to 70°F. The room reads 62°F.

You tap it. Nothing. You restart it. Still nothing.

Your coffee’s barely cooled when you hear another sound—dripping.

You walk into the laundry room and notice water pooling near the base of the hot water heater. There’s a faint but steady drip from one of the connections above.

The air is cold. The floor is wet. You suddenly have two problems and one question: who do you call first?

When Two Systems Fail at Once

It’s not unusual for HVAC and plumbing issues to happen close together, especially during seasonal changes when both systems are adjusting to temperature shifts. But when they do, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

In situations where both plumbing and HVAC systems are causing issues, it can be challenging to decide which to address first. Prioritizing depends on the severity and impact of each problem. For instance, a burst pipe might take precedence over a malfunctioning air conditioner during winter. However, if you’re unsure, consulting a professional can provide clarity. Companies like AC and Plumbing Pro offer comprehensive services that can help you assess and tackle both plumbing and HVAC emergencies efficiently. Their expertise ensures that you receive the right guidance and service, minimizing potential damage and restoring comfort to your home swiftly.

Here’s how to evaluate which emergency takes priority and what steps you should take in the first critical hour.

Step 1: Identify the Severity of Each Problem

Not all emergencies are equal. Some are urgent due to safety risks; others can wait a few hours or even a day without causing damage.

Signs Your HVAC Emergency Takes Priority:

• The heat is out during freezing temperatures
  
• AC failure in extreme heat, especially with elderly or young family members in the home
  
• Smoke, burning smells, or sparking from your unit
  
• Carbon monoxide detector is triggered (if using gas heat)
  

In these cases, your HVAC system may present a health or safety risk, and a call to an HVAC contractor should come first.

Signs Your Plumbing Issue Is More Critical:

• Active leaks or bursts that flood the area
  
• Water flowing uncontrollably from a pipe or appliance
  
• Sewage backup or strong sewer odors in the home
  
• No access to clean water
  

If water is spreading rapidly or there’s potential damage to your home’s structure, flooring, or electrical, the plumber takes precedence.

Step 2: Control What You Can

In any emergency, small actions can make a big difference while waiting for help.

For HVAC issues:

• Turn off the system at the thermostat and breaker
  
• Avoid using space heaters with extension cords
  
• If safe, ventilate the home or close off unused rooms to preserve heat
  

If your system is completely non-responsive and outside temperatures are severe, this is not a DIY fix—call a certified HVAC contractor immediately.

For plumbing issues:

• Shut off the main water supply (usually found near the front of your home or basement)
  
• Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum to contain standing water
  
• Avoid using appliances like dishwashers or washing machines until the issue is resolved
  

Even small leaks can warp flooring or promote mold if left unattended. Quick action can minimize damage before a plumber arrives.

Step 3: Prioritize Based on Risk and Timing

Let’s go back to the scenario.

The thermostat isn’t working—but it’s spring, and the house is chilly, not freezing.
The water heater is leaking—but water is still flowing, and it hasn’t spread beyond a small puddle.

This is what professionals would call a manageable double-header. You’d first:

1. Turn off the water heater (most have a dedicated shutoff valve above them).
   
2. Call a plumber to inspect and potentially replace the faulty connection.
   
3. After containment, reach out to your HVAC contractor to troubleshoot the thermostat issue.
   

In situations where the weather is milder and the HVAC system failure doesn’t endanger your health or safety, plumbing issues usually take top billing due to their potential to cause immediate property damage.

Step 4: Know Who Handles What

Another source of confusion is job overlap. Who do you call when condensation from the AC is leaking into your floor? Or when the furnace vent is connected to your water lines?

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

In crossover situations, many homeowners turn to a trusted service provider like Nardco Heating & Air Conditioning, which understands how both systems interact and can coordinate repairs accordingly.

Step 5: Plan for the Future

Emergencies happen—but many can be prevented. Regular maintenance keeps systems running efficiently and alerts you to developing issues before they require urgent action.

For HVAC:

• Schedule biannual system inspections (spring and fall)
  
• Change filters monthly or as directed
  
• Keep outdoor condenser units clear of debris
  

For Plumbing:

• Inspect visible pipes for moisture or corrosion
  
• Drain and flush your water heater annually
  
• Test shutoff valves periodically to ensure functionality
  

Sometimes even scheduling a simple AC repair in early spring can help uncover plumbing issues tied to drainage or moisture.

Final Thoughts: Stay Calm, Act Smart

When you’re caught between a failing AC unit and an active plumbing leak, the best approach is methodical. Assess the threat, shut down what you can, and call the professional who can stop damage from spreading.

Understanding how HVAC and plumbing emergencies unfold helps you respond with confidence. Whether it’s a puddle on the floor or a house that won’t warm up, the order in which you act matters.

And in those moments, knowing who to call—and when—makes all the difference.

TIME BUSINESS NEWS