How to Handle a Burst Pipe: Immediate Steps to Take

A ruptured pipe can ruin your property severely if not immediately and correctly handled. Water leaks can cause structural issues, mold growth, and high-cost repairs. Whatever the cause – cold temperatures, age of pipes, or excess pressure – rapid response is important. Here is the process that you must follow when faced with a burst pipe to avoid maximum damage and have your plumbing system in operation effectively.

Cut Off the Water Supply

The very first and most essential thing to do is to switch off the water supply at its source to avert any continuous flooding. The main shut-off valve can generally be located nearby the water meter or where the main water pipeline enters the property. If that is not easy to locate, refer to your home’s plumbing layout guidebook or call on a professional plumber.

Switch Off the Electricity

If the water from the broken pipe has touched electrical devices or sockets, turn off the power at the master circuit breaker to prevent electrical hazard. Electricity and water do not mix, remember.

Drain the Pipes

To minimize any more leakage, open all the faucets in the house to drain off all remaining water from the pipes. Flush the toilets many times to drain the system. This action relieves pressure from the pipes and prevents further damage.

Locate the Burst Pipe

After floodwater is stopped, inspect the broken pipe. Water marks, bulging walls, or standing water are all signs of a leak. If the leaking pipe is behind a wall or underneath a floor, you will need to contact a professional plumber to track it down and repair it.

Temporarily Seal the Leak

Until you have a professional repair done, you might be able to use a quick fix to lower the level of water damage:

Pipe repair clamps – Suitable for sealing fractures and small leaks.

Epoxy putty – A rapidly drying solution giving a temporary seal.

Rubber patches and hose clamps – Rubber plugging the leak with hose clamps holding it together can minimize leaking.

Plumbing tape – Use to seal minor leaks until a professional is able to do so.

Drain Excess Water and Start Drying

Mop, towel, and wet/dry vacuum standing water. Operate fans and dehumidifiers to expedite the drying process. If there is too much moisture in carpets or drywall, contact a professional water damage restoration company to avoid mold infestation.

Evaluate Plumbing and Property Damage

Check your walls, floor, and insulation for water uptake. If the pipe is from an older plumbing system, you might have to replace sections of your system to avoid future problems.

Call a Professional Plumber

Though you may be able to handle the issue at the moment, you need to engage the services of a professional plumber to inspect and repair the burst pipe. Professional help will determine the root cause, give remedial action that will ensure a permanent solution, and make your plumbing strong and functioning in prime condition.

Preventative Maintenance

In addition to prevention from future ruptured pipes, don’t forget:

Insulate exposed pipes – In cold climates, this may prevent freezing.

Test water pressure – Too high a water pressure can over-pressurize the pipes and create leaks.

Annual plumbing check-ups – Expert check-ups will find weak points in your plumbing system.

Drain cleaning – Drain maintenance prevents clogs that create pressure buildup and potential pipe damage.

Review Your Home Insurance Policy

Home insurance can cover pipe bursts under your policy. Notify your insurance company and receive help with repair and restoration expenses. Call professionals for plumbing installation in Marana, AZ.

Final thoughts

A burst pipe is an annoying and expensive issue, but fixing it early can prevent extensive damage. Shut off the water, bleed the system, and have the professionals restore your plumbing installation and safeguard your home. Drain cleaning in Marana, AZ, will also ensure future plumbing disasters do not occur. If you believe your pipes are not working as they should, do not delay and consult with a plumbing expert to ensure your system is in working order.