If not taken care of quickly, a burst pipe can easily become a homeowner’s worst nightmare, causing extensive water damage and requiring costly repairs. Knowing what to do when a pipe bursts can save time and money and prevent further damage.
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
The initial and most important step is to turn off the main water supply to prevent more water from coming through. The faucet, usually found under the kitchen sink, in the bathroom, or close to the water meter, regulates the water entering your house. Rotate it clockwise to halt the water flow. If you don’t know its location, now is the right time to find it.
2. Drain the System
After shutting off the water supply, open all cold faucets in your house to remove any leftover water in the pipes. This will decrease the volume of water that may escape from the burst pipe. Remember to also flush the toilets to clear out the cisterns.
3. Turn Off the Heating System
Turn off both the central heating and water heating systems if the burst pipe is linked to your heating system. This stops the flow of hot water through the burst pipe to avoid making the situation worse.
4. Identify the Source of the Burst
Find the burst pipe to evaluate the extent of the damage. It could be easy to understand if water is visibly leaking, but it can also be concealed behind walls or under floors at times. Search for indicators such as wet spots, swollen ceilings, or strange sounds.
5. Temporary Fixes
While you wait for professional help, you can use a quick solution to minimise water damage. Position a bucket or receptacle below the leak to capture the falling water. To temporarily fix the leak, you can use a pipe repair clamp, rubber pipe tape, or a piece of rubber with a C-clamp. These are available in many hardware stores and can provide a temporary solution until a permanent repair is made.
6. Call a Professional Plumber
Contact a plumber to assess and repair the burst pipe. Professional help is vital, as inadequate solutions could lead to bigger issues in the future. Provide them with all the information regarding the location and intensity of the burst to expedite the repair procedure.
7. Dry Out the Area
Once you have fixed the leak immediately, begin drying the affected areas to prevent the growth of mould and mildew. Use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to get rid of any extra water. To speed up the drying process, position fans and dehumidifiers in the area. If the damage is extensive, consider hiring a professional water damage restoration service.
8. Check for Electrical Safety
Water and electricity are dangerous together. If water has leaked near electrical outlets, appliances, or wiring, do not touch it. If it is safe, switch off the power at the main fuse box and contact an electrician to assess the damage.
9. Contact Your Insurance Company
Inform your home insurance company about the burst pipe and any consequent damage. Give them information about the event, such as images of the harm done and proof of any immediate fixes made. It is important to review your specific coverage as your insurance policy may differ in covering repair and damage costs.
10. Prevent Future Bursts
After resolving the current crisis, make efforts to avoid future pipe ruptures. Ensure exposed pipes are well insulated, particularly in unheated spaces such as attics, cellars, and carports. Keep a steady temperature in your house during cold weather, and consider adding a leak detection system that warns you about possible leaks before they escalate.
Once the initial difficulty has passed, consider whether you need to contact us to ensure that insulation in the loft of walls has not become saturated. It won’t dry naturally and will need to be removed if so.