Being a homeowner comes with many responsibilities, including handling plumbing emergencies. Although pipe bursts are a common plumbing emergency, not everyone knows what to do when they encounter one for the first time. So here’s what to do.
SHUT OFF THE WATER
To help stop the water damage from spreading, locate your main valve and shut it off. It’s often located underneath the kitchen sink or in the basement.
TURN OFF THE ELECTRICITY
If you believe your water leak may have come in contact with electrical outlets or your fuse box, you’ll want to turn off your electricity to be safe.
DRAIN THE PIPES
You’ll want to drain as much water as you can from your pipes. Turn on your faucets on the cold setting and run them dry. Also, flush your toilets a few times.
TURN OFF THE HOT WATER HEATER
Next, shut off your water heater and open your hot water taps, to drain them out.
LOCATE THE PIPE BURST
Locate the source of the water leak and remove any damaged items nearby to prevent mold growth.
CONTACT A PLUMBER
Water damage can lead to serious issues, including wood rot and mold growth. It can also impact your structural integrity. If you’re dealing with a burst pipe, it’s recommended to work with an experienced plumber to repair or replace the damaged pipe. This isn’t something you should hesitate to do.
DOCUMENT THE DAMAGE
Water is very destructive. You’ll want to take photos of the water damage so you can use them when filing an insurance claim.
HOW TO DETECT A PIPE BURST
Not all pipe bursts are obvious. Here are some other signs to look out for that may mean a pipe has burst.
Low water pressure
Discoloring on your walls or ceilings
Foul smells from your pipes
Increased water bill
Brownish or discolored water
HOW TO PREVENT PIPE BURSTS
Pipe bursts often occur in the winter, when temperatures are freezing so to help prevent them from bursting, you’ll want to protect them.
Keep your thermostat at a consistent temperature
Open cabinets so warm air can circulate around your pipes
Keep your garage door closed
Insulate pipes in unheated areas
Use hose bib covers on your outdoor faucets
PIPE BURST SPECIALISTS
Now that you know a little more about how to handle a pipe burst, we hope you keep Pacific Plumbing in mind when this plumbing emergency does occur. From pipe burst to clog drains, our team is ready 24/7 to help with your plumbing needs. Visit our website to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.
