7 Ways to Handle a Burst Pipe
There are several reasons why pipes burst. Excessive water pressure can put added strain on them, for example. Freezing weather conditions can lead to a burst pipe when the water in the pipes freezes. The decay of older pipes, the presence of hard water, invasive tree roots and poor installation are also some of the many possible causes. No matter what the reason though, a burst pipe is one of the most inconvenient and serious plumbing issues a homeowner can face.
Despite the extensive pipe destruction and water bill increases that a broken pipe can lead to, one of the worst parts of the situation is trying to minimise any water damage to your property as a result of the rupture. Below we explore a few ways to dry out and restore your home after experiencing a burst pipe.
1. Stay Safe And Switch Off The Electricity
When dealing with a burst water pipe, prioritising the safety of you and your family is crucial. Before you start the clean-up effort, you must turn off the water and eliminate any electrical hazards as soon as possible. After all, you know the saying about water and electricity…
This means thoroughly ensuring that you shut off all electrical power to your home, especially if the water leak is in proximity to any electrical appliances. Not only is this preventative measure a basic safety protocol, but it also helps stop further hazardous incidents that might occur from the accidental mixing of water and electricity within your plumbing system.
2. Shut Off The Water At The Source
As we mentioned above, it’s vital that you quickly shut off the water flow at its source to stop the effects of the burst pipe from escalating into an even more major situation.
The first necessary step is to locate and turn off the main water valve, which you’ll usually find in the front garden or adjacent to your water meter. Once you’ve shut off the water supply, you’ll need to relieve the pressure from the water pipes. This is relatively straightforward; all you need to do is:
- turn the cold water taps on
- flush toilets in your home
- shut off the hot water system
- turn on the hot water taps
Doing all of these steps ensures complete drainage and pressure reduction in your plumbing network.
3. Contain The Water
Dealing with a visibly leaking pipe means that you’ll need an effective way to contain the burst water. Luckily, this is relatively simple. Simply place a large bucket underneath the burst pipe to reduce the extent of damage it might cause. Keep a spare one handy for those moments when you might need a quick bucket changeover.
Note that this is a temporary solution that requires regular monitoring on your part. After all, you want to prevent the bucket from overflowing and avoid additional water pooling and the associated increase in water damage.
4. Call An Emergency Plumber
With the initial burst water pipe emergency under control, it’s time to contact an emergency plumber. They’ll be able to address damaged pipe repair needs, and also conduct a thorough drain inspection to preclude further plumbing problems.
A reputable plumber like those from Metropolitan Plumbing promises effective and efficient emergency plumbing services. They work with all types of plumbing pipe materials, including PVC and copper to stop water leaking and meet your home plumbing needs.
5. Remove Items From The Affected Area
To best protect your personal belongings, you must get them away from water-affected zones as soon as you can. Remove any waterlogged possessions, including carpets and furnishings, to prevent mould build-up and preserve their condition. To avert household health hazards, you might find you’ll need to get rid of any items that have suffered extensive water damage. This step not only aids in cleaning but also prepares the area for potential plumbing maintenance or significant repairs.
6. Dry The Floors And Walls
Drying out the affected rooms in your home is the next course of action.
Use any towels, mops, or a wet-dry vacuum to mop up visible water. After removing the bulk of the leaking water, use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process. Open windows and doors where possible to ensure you have sufficient ventilation in the room. This improves air circulation, assists in drying out wet areas, and helps disperse any musty odours that may have arisen from the water leak.
7. Call a Professional Restoration Company
Should the level of water damage from your broken pipe be extensive, it’s well worth getting in touch with a local water damage restoration company.
Such companies are equipped with industrial-grade tools to effectively deal with and reverse the aftermath of a burst water main. They’re specialists in safeguarding the structural integrity of your home and preventing health risks associated with water damage. It’s certainly wise to check over your home insurance policy as it may cover the costs of services provided by licensed plumbers and restoration experts, especially when it comes to damage from a water main or burst water pipes.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Preventing burst pipes involves more than just reacting to emergencies. Regular plumbing maintenance plays a crucial role in safeguarding your home against such disasters. Scheduling routine checks with a licensed plumber can detect warning signs and address small leaks or weaknesses in your pipes before they escalate.
Monitoring and managing water pressure in your home is also vital; high water pressure can strain pipes, leading to bursts. Installing pressure-reducing valves and regularly inspecting the hot water system can help maintain optimal pressure levels. By taking these proactive steps, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of encountering burst water pipes, thus ensuring the longevity and safety of their plumbing systems.
The Importance Of Long Term Solutions
For long-term protection against burst pipes, consider upgrading the plumbing system in your house. Investing in high-quality materials like copper pipes can enhance the durability and resilience of your system. Incorporating modern solutions such as flexi hoses can also provide added protection against leaks and bursts.
Establishing a regular maintenance schedule with a licensed plumber is another vital step. They can inspect for potential issues like blocked pipes, bad installation, or general wear that could lead to major repairs if neglected. These proactive measures not only fortify your plumbing against future bursts but also contribute to the overall health and efficiency of your home’s plumbing infrastructure.
Burst Pipes Be Gone!
As we’ve navigated through the crucial steps of handling burst pipes, it’s evident that awareness and preparedness are key. Remember, burst pipes can happen to any household, but taking swift action can significantly reduce their impact. We encourage you to be proactive – schedule a plumbing inspection with a licensed, professional plumber to identify and resolve any potential issues.
Together, let’s keep our homes safe and dry, ensuring burst pipes become a concern of the past. Remember, prevention is always better than cure!
For more information, the friendly team at Metropolitan Plumbing can help. Contact us today.
Published: 2020-02-20