Introduction
A burst pipe can create a huge mess and a lot of stress in your home. It can easily cause great damage to your property and possibly reduce property values. Fortunately, if you react quickly and take safe and appropriate measures, you should be able to handle the damage and maintain a safety margin for yourself. This guide will explain what to do right away if a pipe bursts and help you take preventative measures against future plumbing issues.
Immediate Steps to Take When a Pipe Bursts
Dealing with a burst pipe emergency can be very difficult and stressful, plus it can be very expensive due to sudden damage, and also affect your property value. But following a clear action plan can keep you safe and prevent you from future damage.
Here is your step-by-step guide on what to do in a plumbing emergency:
- Step# 1: Shut off the main water supply
In an emergency, your first step is to stop the water to reduce the damage. Find your main shut-off valve and turn it off (clockwise direction) until the flow of water is stopped completely.
| Protip! You will find the shut-off valve in the basement or a crawl space. |
- Step# 2: Turn off the home electricity
If water is near any electrical outlets and appliances or your circuit breaker box, you need to immediately shut off the power to avoid the risk of electric shock. Also, do not step in any standing water while you’re shutting off the electricity.
| Expert advice! Wear shoes that are made of insulated materials like rubber or plastic soles. |
- Step# 3: Drain the remaining water
When the main water supply is turned off, open all cold and hot faucets in your home, and flush all toilets. This releases the pressure in the plumbing system and helps drain any remaining water. This will stop the pressure of water and water flooding into your home.
- Step# 4: Call an emergency plumber
You need a professional plumber to thoroughly evaluate the damage and make a safe, permanent repair. You should seek out a local emergency plumbing service near you with high ratings and a quick response time to minimize the damage.
- Step# 5: Document the damage
Make sure to take clear pictures and video footage of the damaged areas, the source of the leak, and any belongings damaged by the water. This collection of videos and photos will help you when you file for an insurance claim.
Recovering from a Burst Pipe and Preventive Measures for Future
After the pipe is repaired, you should focus on recovery and preventing future issues to protect your home. This process will help you from bursting pipes in the future and will save you from further expenses.
Here is your guide on how to recover from a burst pipe and what preventive measures you should take:
- After the repairs: The recovery process
When the plumbing has been repaired, dry the entire area that sustained water damage with fans and dehumidifiers. Sanitize all items and surfaces that came into contact with the water to eliminate the possibility of mold and mildew growth.
- Make an insurance claim.
Contact your insurance company right away and report the damage done so that you can start a claim. Provide the company anytime you need to help support your case to recover your financial loss.
- Prevent pipes from freezing.
If you want to prevent a similar situation from happening again during another cold winter, make sure to insulate any exposed pipes in your basement, crawl spaces, or any exterior walls. You should also make sure to seal air leaks and maintain a warm indoor temperature as preventative measures.
- Maintain indoor Temperature
During the winter, plan on keeping your house at or above freezing temperatures even when you are away from your home. Avoid shutting the heat off, as vulnerable pipes may freeze and burst again, which will cost you a lot more money in repairs.
- Consider future maintenance
Yearly plumbing inspections can expose potential issues with your plumbing prior to the trouble presenting. You may find excessive corrosion, weak joints, or worn-out sections of your piping that a professional plumbing company can help avoid a costly emergency in the future.
Conclusion
Having a pipe burst can be a stressful situation, but acting quickly and taking a few simple steps will help minimize the damage. Don’t forget to turn off the water, keep safety a priority, contact a professional, and keep track of everything for your insurance claim. If you take steps to prevent similar problems in the future, you can help protect your home. Stay safe, Stay happy!
FAQs
What signs show that a pipe has burst?
Look for water stains, dampness, low water p
Can a burst pipe cause mold?
Yes, standing water from burst pipes can lead to mold growth if not cleaned quickly.
How can I prevent burst pipes in winter?
Insulate pipes and keep your home heated during cold weather.
