A burst pipe is one of the most urgent plumbing issues you can face. Water can flood your home or business quickly, causing serious damage. The good news is that if you know what steps to take right away, you can limit the damage until help arrives.
Step 1: Shut Off the Water
The very first thing you need to do when a pipe bursts is shut off the water to prevent more flooding. Find your home’s main water shut-off valve and turn it clockwise to stop the flow. If you can’t locate the main shut-off valve, look for the valves close to the burst pipe (e.g., under sinks or near water heaters).
Step 2: Drain the System
Once the water is off, it’s important to drain the pipes to remove any excess water that may cause further flooding. Open all the faucets in your home (both hot and cold), and flush the toilets. This will relieve the pressure in the pipes and minimize additional damage.
Step 3: Contain the Leak
Use towels, buckets, or plastic sheeting to catch any water still leaking from the pipe. This will help protect your floors and belongings. If you can access the burst pipe, you can use rubber and hose clamps as a temporary measure to seal the leak.
Step 4: Call a Professional Plumber
It’s critical to call a plumber immediately after taking these steps. A plumber will have the tools and expertise to repair the burst pipe and assess any further damage to your property.
Call to Action
A burst pipe can be a disaster, but swift action can minimize the damage. Call Greater Works Plumbing at 267-826-6578
for fast, reliable emergency plumbing services!