Mon to Fri:

7:00AM to 5:00PM

Customer Reviews Graphic

How To Handle A Burst Water Pipe Emergency (5 Easy Steps)

15 February

It’s not only a dripping tap or a water leak that’s annoying. Nobody likes pipes bursting. Burst water pipes can occur when the water pressure in the pipes gets too high for them to contain, and because of the excessive water pressure, they rupture and cause water leaks in your metal pipes. Existing flaws in the pipe or deterioration over time can cause weakness resulting in water pipes burst or broken pipes. When a water pipe bursts, the resulting flood can cause water damage more than a hidden leaking water supply system to your house, leaving you with an expensive emergency pipe repair bill.

To mitigate the damage caused by a burst water pipe, it’s a smart idea to know what to do when pipes burst, and this type of plumbing emergency occurs in your home while your emergency plumber isn’t there yet. With a burst pipe, you’ll need the best solution. Below, you’ll find plumbing tips while waiting for a professional plumber and an efficient service and the five easy steps to take so you can handle a burst water pipe emergency!

Handle A Burst Water Pipe Emergency Infographic

Please copy the code below to share this image on your Site

How To Handle A Burst Water Pipe Emergency And What To Do (5 Easy Steps)

Step One – Switch Off Electricity

Everyone knows that water leaks and electricity don’t mix. Trying to clean up a wet floor while plugging electrical devices only invites a potentially fatal electrical shock. So before you do anything else, please switch off the electricity at its source as a safety measure.

Step Two – Time To Get A Bucket

Find a receptacle to catch water spilling from the damaged pipe. Depending on the severity of the burst water main, you may need a fairly sizable container to hold the water or preferably two to empty one at a time. Once your container is placed, proceed immediately to the next step.

Step Three – Turn Off Water At The Main Valve

Water will continue flowing out of the burst pipe until it is cut off at its source. By turning off the main water immediately after placing your container, you will stop water flow to your home. This will prevent water from pouring into your home and minimise damage.

The main water shutoff valve is usually found in your front yard or on the front of your house with your water meter. All members of your household should be aware of the valve’s location so that they will be able to stop the water inflow even if you’re not around.

Step Four – Call Emergency Plumbing Services

Now that the water cut off and water damage is minimised, it’s time to call an emergency plumbing service to repair the broken pipeline. It is also wise to request a plumbing inspection at the same time to find any other possible damage so that it can be addressed immediately. This will reduce the likelihood of burst pipes and other plumbing problems in the future.

Step Five – Drain Remaining Water From Pipes

Even with the water turned off, there is still water sitting in the pipes. While waiting for your plumber to arrive, drain the water from your pipes by turning on all cold water taps.

To drain hot water, you will need to turn off your hot water service first, then turn on hot water taps. This way, all pipes are clear of water and ready for your plumber to begin work.

So, when there’s an emergency burst water pipe, don’t panic with the plumbing-related issue at hand. And use the checklist below.

Checklist

  1. Switch off electricity
  2. Place bucket under burst pipe
  3. Turn of main water valve
  4. Call plumber
  5. Drain pipes

Trust Only The Fully Qualified and Licensed Plumbers

As mentioned above, aside from the general wear and tear, there could be existing flaws already in need of a professional work present in your lines to cause the burst water pipes. Thus, it is highly recommended only to let fully qualified and fully licensed plumbers work on your plumbing needs and your emergency burst pipe. If you don’t go for a reputable plumber, poor workmanship or bad installation will only cost you more effort and money.

Also, remember to do plumbing maintenance now and then. You don’t know what other plumbing issues you could have. Unknown to you, there could be water leaks around your property, and you’ll be wondering what’s with your increasing water bill. Inspect your flexi hoses. They’re known to be a ticking time bomb and unless maintained regularly they can cause irreversible water damage to your house. Early detection of plumbing problems will save you from headaches and dents in your pocket.

Not sure who to call for all your plumbing needs? Reach out to our friendly team of professional plumbers! From leaking taps to solving your high water bill, malfunctioning hot water system, tree roots causing your blocked pipes, filtration system for your water supply, regular maintenance, high water pressure and other professional plumbing services; rely on our licensed plumber! We go the extra mile to provide you a friendly service from the first phone call. And all our work is fully guaranteed. With us, you can be sure your plumbing system will live for many years.

With our full range of plumbing services and extensive experience in the plumbing industry, you can rely on us to provide you with solutions to all your plumbing problems like your burst pipes. Our team of experts will get your pipe repaired immediately. Reach out to us anytime!

INFOGRAPHIC PROVIDED BY:
www.goldcoastplumbingcompany.com.au