When the power goes out, the first thing that usually comes to mind is the fridge, lights, or internet—but what about your plumbing? It’s a question many Amarillo homeowners don’t think to ask until they’re in the dark and trying to flush a toilet or take a shower. Can I still use my plumbing when the power is out? The short answer is: It depends.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how power outages affect your plumbing system, which fixtures still work, what to avoid, and how to stay prepared. Whether you live in the city, on a rural property with a well, or in an apartment complex, knowing how your plumbing responds to outages can help you avoid frustrating surprises—or costly repairs.
Does Plumbing Work During a Power Outage?
If the power goes out, does water still work? In most cases, yes—but not always. The answer largely depends on your water source, plumbing system, and whether or not you rely on electric-powered components like well pumps, sump pumps, or ejector systems.
🏙️ If You’re on City Water
Great news—city water typically works without power. Municipal water systems rely on gravity and pressurized holding tanks that aren’t affected by outages in your home. So you’ll likely still be able to run water, flush toilets, and use basic plumbing fixtures.
✅ Does city water work when power is out?
Yes, unless your home relies on electric booster pumps or your building has unique plumbing needs.
🏡 If You’re in a Rural Area with a Well
This is where it gets tricky. Well water depends on an electric pump, which means that when the power goes out, your water supply usually does too. However, some wells include a holding tank with a limited water reserve (10–50 gallons), which can be used temporarily.
❌ Can you use water when the power is out if you’re on a well?
Only if your system has a holding tank or you have a backup generator.
Can You Flush the Toilet When the Power Is Out?
Toilets are surprisingly resilient during outages—but not all toilets are created equal.
✅ Toilets That Will Still Flush:
- Gravity Flush Toilets: Most traditional toilets rely on gravity, not electricity. These will work as long as there’s water in the tank or bowl.
- Municipal Water Supply: If your home uses city water, you can typically flush without issue—unless the water pressure drops.
- Manual Flushing Option: If the tank doesn’t refill, you can manually pour water into the bowl (about ¾ of a gallon) to flush it.
💧 Can you flush a toilet during a power outage?
Yes, if you’re on city water and have a gravity-based system.
❌ Toilets That Won’t Flush Without Power:
- Pump-Assisted or Upflush Toilets: These need electricity to operate.
- Homes with Ejector or Effluent Pumps: Used to pump sewage uphill. If flushed without power, it could cause sewage backups.
- Apartment Complexes with Electric Pumps: You may lose water entirely if your building uses a powered water pump.
⚠️ Does the toilet flush when the power is out?
Not if it’s powered by a pump. Avoid flushing to prevent overflows or backups.
Can You Shower During a Power Outage?
Ah, the classic question: Can I still take a shower when the power is out? The answer depends on a few things:
🚿 When You Can Shower:
- City Water + Gravity System: If your water supply and heater don’t rely on electricity, you may get a short shower before the hot water runs out.
- Gas Water Heater (with standing pilot): You might still get hot water, but it depends on your specific unit.
🛑 When You Shouldn’t Shower:
- No Hot Water: Electric or tankless water heaters require power.
- During Storms: If the power outage is weather-related, especially during lightning, it’s not safe to be in water.
- Well System: No electricity = no water pressure = no shower.
🔌 Can you shower without power?
Not recommended, especially if your heater or water supply needs electricity.
What Plumbing Appliances Stop Working Without Power?
Here’s a quick overview of what won’t function when the power is out:
- Sump Pumps
- Tankless Water Heaters
- Electric Water Heaters
- Pump-Assisted Toilets & Septic Systems
- Dishwashers & Washing Machines
💡 Does plumbing use electricity?
Some parts do—especially systems involving pumping, heating, or water movement uphill.
To avoid plumbing disasters during blackouts, consider installing a backup generator or battery system for essential appliances. Learn more about our sump pump installation and repair services in Amarillo.
How to Prepare for Plumbing Interruptions During a Power Outage
Being prepared isn’t just about candles and flashlights. Your plumbing deserves some love too.
✅ 1. Install a Backup Generator
Generators can power your well pump, water heater, and sump pump during outages. Our licensed team at PlumbingAmarillo can recommend and install the right system for your home.
✅ 2. Insulate Pipes
Especially during a winter power outage, frozen pipes are a real threat. Insulating your pipes helps prevent cracks, bursts, and leaks.
Check out our emergency plumbing services in Amarillo if your pipes freeze or burst unexpectedly.
✅ 3. Store Emergency Water
Keep clean containers filled with fresh water on hand. This can help with manual toilet flushing, hand washing, or emergency drinking water.
✅ 4. Create a Plumbing Emergency Checklist
Include steps like:
- Shutting off water to prevent frozen pipes
- Draining your system if you’re leaving the home
- Instructions for manually flushing the toilet
✅ 5. Consider a Backup Toilet
Portable toilets or composting toilets can be lifesavers during long outages—especially in rural homes without well holding tanks.
Final Thoughts: Can I Use My Plumbing When the Power Goes Out?
If you’ve made it this far, you now know that the answer to “Can I use water during a power outage?” is a definite maybe. It depends on whether your home relies on electricity to pump, heat, or pressurize water.
🚨 In short:
- City water = mostly fine
- Well water = often not usable without power
- Toilets = sometimes flush manually
- Showers = not ideal unless you have gas heat and city supply
Need Help? Call Amarillo’s Most Trusted Plumbing Team
At PlumbingAmarillo.us, we specialize in residential plumbing repair, emergency services, well pump troubleshooting, and backup plumbing solutions.
Whether you’re experiencing plumbing failure during a power outage or want to prep for the next one, contact us today to speak with our team. We proudly serve Amarillo, TX, and surrounding areas with fast, friendly, and professional service.
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Stay safe, stay informed—and remember, when your plumbing is down, PlumbingAmarillo.us is just a call away.