Knowing how to handle a burst pipe can help you manage a stressful situation and minimize damage.
A burst pipe is every homeowner’s nightmare. Whether it’s caused by freezing temperatures, aging pipes, or sudden pressure changes, a burst pipe can lead to severe water damage, mold growth, and costly repairs if not addressed quickly. Knowing how to handle a burst pipe before professional help arrives can minimize damage and protect your property. In this blog, we’ll walk you through step-by-step emergency plumbing tips that can make a major difference in an urgent situation.
Shut Off the Water Supply Immediately
The first and most critical step in how to handle a burst pipe is to shut off your main water supply. This will stop the flow of water and prevent additional flooding. Locate your main water shut-off valve—it’s typically found in the basement, crawl space, or near your water meter—and turn it clockwise to stop the water.
If the burst is localized and your home has individual shut-off valves for each area, you may be able to isolate just that section instead of turning off water for the entire home.
Turn Off the Electricity in the Affected Area
If water is leaking near electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the electricity in that section of your home from the breaker box. Safety is paramount—water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Never attempt to unplug electronics or touch anything electrical in a flooded area until power is shut off.
Drain Faucets and Pipes
After turning off the main water supply, open all cold water taps throughout your home to drain the remaining water in the system and reduce pressure in the pipes. Then, turn off your water heater and open hot water taps to drain hot water lines as well. This can help minimize further leakage and relieve pressure from the damaged pipe.
Locate the Burst Pipe and Assess the Damage
Once the immediate dangers are controlled, locate the source of the leak. If the pipe is visible, examine the size and location of the burst. This information will be crucial when you call an emergency plumber. If the damage is behind a wall or ceiling, look for water stains, bulging drywall, or dripping water to help identify the hidden burst.
Contain the Leak
Place a bucket or container under the leaking pipe to catch water and prevent it from soaking into floors or walls. You can also wrap the damaged pipe with towels, rags, or duct tape as a temporary fix to slow the leak. Some homeowners keep plumber’s epoxy or pipe repair clamps in their emergency kits for a quick, short-term seal.
Start Drying the Area
Use towels, mops, wet/dry vacuums, and fans to start drying the affected area immediately. The faster you remove water, the less likely you are to deal with mold or mildew. If water has saturated walls, carpets, or insulation, you may need professional water mitigation services.
Call an Emergency Plumber
Even if the situation seems under control, a burst pipe is rarely a DIY fix. Call a licensed emergency plumber right away. A professional can replace the damaged section of pipe, inspect for additional weak spots, and ensure your plumbing system is safe to use again.
Document the Damage for Insurance
Take photos and videos of the burst pipe and any damage to your home for insurance purposes. This documentation will help when you file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance provider. Keep records of all repair costs, receipts, and service calls.
Prevent Future Bursts
After repairs are made, consider upgrading old pipes, adding insulation to prevent freezing, and scheduling regular plumbing inspections. Taking preventive steps now can help you avoid future emergencies.
You Got This
Learning how to handle a burst pipe can save you time, money, and stress during an emergency. Acting quickly by shutting off the water, containing the leak, and calling a plumber are key steps in minimizing damage. While a burst pipe is a serious issue, having a plan in place can help you stay calm and take control of the situation.
Call Mahon Plumbing Today
If you still have more questions regarding your plumbing, we here at Mahon Plumbing are here to help. We have been serving the wider Baltimore area since 1994, so we have 25 years of experience to back up our fantastic service! Call us at our Baltimore location at 410-766-8566 or our Pasadena location at 410-636-7944. Be sure to keep up with us on social media by following us on Facebook or Twitter.