Steps to take when a Pipe burst
Finding unexpected water on the floor is never a pleasant feeling, but quickly identifying its source can help you make the most of a bad situation. Make sure all nearby faucets are turned off, and check that appliances like washers and refrigerators aren’t dripping.
Also, look for any forgotten spills that may have caused the unwanted water. When no other clear sources can be found and you see a still-growing water spot, you are likely to have a burst pipe.
Quick Takeaways
- When you think you have a burst pipe, act fast to minimize damage.
- Call a certified plumber after you have turned off the water and electricity and identified the leak location.
- Be proactive to avoid situations that may cause or lead to pipes bursting in the future.
Signs You Have a Burst Pipe
Identifying a burst pipe might sound simple, but this problem can show up in more than just one way.
- New Stains on the Wall or Ceiling When a pipe bursts, it can leak inside the walls or ceiling before you see pooling water. Instead, a growing wet spot on the wall or ceiling can let you know that a broken pipe may be the culprit.
- Visible, Unexplainable Water on the Floor If you notice pooled water on the floor or damp floors or carpets, you may have a burst pipe in your house.
- Water Suddenly Smells or Looks Different A change in water odor or color can indicate that a pipe has burst and is letting unsafe water into your home.
- You Hear Pipe Noises in the Walls Creaking, clanking pipes may be trying to tell you they are clogged, have burst, or are just about to burst.
- The Water Bill is Rising If you haven’t changed your lawn watering, showering, or cleaning habits, but your water bill is steadily rising, you may have a burst pipe that needs to be fixed.
Step-by-Step: What to Do When a Pipe Bursts
When you have a burst pipe, follow these steps to slow or stop the water until you can secure professional support to fix the problem.
Step 1 – Shut Off the Main Water Supply
Locate your water valve and turn it off. Typically, valves are located near the water heater, in a basement or crawlspace, or outside near the water meter. Since water valves are normally turned on, expect to use a little elbow grease to turn the valve off completely.
If your municipality has buried water valves and requires a special tool to turn off the water, try turning off your home’s water supply near the suspected leaking pipe first. Local shutoffs can usually be found underneath kitchen or bathroom fixtures or near water heaters. Once the local shutoff is successful, turn off the main supply if you can.
Step 2 – Turn Off Electricity if Water Is Near Outlets
To ensure safety while the burst pipe is being fixed, turn off the electricity at any outlets near the water leak areas. Access the breaker box in your garage, basement, or outside the house and flip the appropriate switches to the off position, so that no electrical current can flow near spilled or flowing water.
Step 3 – Drain the Remaining Water from Faucets
To safely remove water from the pipes, turn on indoor faucets and run them until the water in the pipes has been emptied. This will help to keep them from freezing, especially if you have turned off the electricity. Keep the taps open, however, to avoid pressure build-up.
Step 4 – Locate the Burst Pipe
Carefully inspect your home for the exact location of the leak. Look for water spots, bulging walls, or drips. Plug the leak with a towel, if possible, and use a bucket to capture dripping water.
Step 5 – Call a Licensed Plumber
Professionals like the punctual plumbers at Benjamin Franklin are ready to take your call to help you fix a leaking pipe. A licensed plumber brings the right tools and knowledge to repair leaks and pipe damage.
Step 6 – Start Cleaning and Drying the Area
Get ahead of water damage by removing standing water to avoid mold or mildew growth. Move furniture away from the area and put belongings in a safe space after inspecting all pieces for water damage.
Step 7 – Document the Damage for Insurance
As you prepare the area for repair, take photos and document everything so you can present a complete description of the leak’s damage.
Common Causes of Burst Pipes
A pipe can burst for a few different reasons, so knowing what to watch out for can help a homeowner mitigate the damage if it actually does occur.
- Freezing temperatures can cause otherwise strong pipes to freeze and then burst under the expansion pressure.
- Sometimes pipes become clogged and then burst under the pressure.
- Tree roots or construction nearby can create earth movement that can crack or break a pipe.
- Corrosion, over time, can weaken pipes and allow them to break and leak.
How to Prevent Future Pipe Bursts
To reduce the likelihood of pipes breaking, protect them from low temperatures by running a slow drip through them when a freeze is predicted, and avoid pouring materials like oil or grease down the drain so they can’t create a blockage. Remove trees and root growth around pipes and check older pipes for damage or potential problems before they burst.
FAQ
Why do pipes burst?
Low temperatures, clogs, ground movements, and corrosion can cause pipes to burst.
What do I do if I suspect a burst pipe?
Turn off your water valve to minimize damage.
Can I fix a burst pipe myself?
No, you should call a licensed plumbing professional.
Stop Water Damage Fast—Call Your Local Plumbing Experts Today
The certified professionals at Gainesville Ben Franklin are just a phone call away, ready to help when the unexpected happens. Avoid water damage and get back to normal life quickly with help from the punctual plumbers at Ben Franklin.