How to Deal With a Burst Pipe

A burst pipe is one of the most alarming household emergencies. It happens unexpectedly, leaving you scrambling to find a solution. Whether you’re dealing with a burst pipe under the house, a burst pipe in the wall, or a full-blown flood due to the burst, quick action is crucial.

Understanding how to handle the problem will save you both time and money, especially when it comes to mitigating water damage and ensuring a smooth process for drain repairs in Sydney.

Burst Pipe: How Does It Happen?

A burst pipe occurs when the water inside the pipe builds up enough pressure to cause it to rupture. This could happen due to:

• Freezing temperatures.
• Corrosion.
• Physical damage.
• Poor pipe installation.
• Blocked drains.

Once a pipe bursts, it can lead to significant water damage, affecting your walls, flooring, and even electrical systems, so it’s important to address it early on before it escalates.

What To Do When A Pipe Bursts

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Mains

The first thing you should do when dealing with a burst pipe is to turn off the water mains. This will stop the flow of water into the burst pipe, reducing the risk of further damage. The water mains valve is usually located near your water meter, either outside or in a utility area inside your home.

To turn off the water mains:

• Locate the water meter and its valve.
• Turn the valve clockwise to stop the flow of water into your pipes.
• Check your water meter to ensure that the dial has stopped spinning, confirming that the water is off.

If you’re unable to locate the water mains, our emergency plumber can help. Remember, preventing further water from entering the pipes is key to mitigating damage.

Step 2: Turn Off the Electrical Power

If you’re dealing with a burst pipe, there’s a risk of electrocution. It’s important to switch off the electrical mains to prevent any hazards.

To do this:

• Locate your home’s main electrical switchboard, often found in the hallway or entry.
• Turn off the main switch to isolate all power.
• If needed, turn off individual circuits that supply power.

Step 3: Find the Source of the Leak

It’s important to stay calm during this process. Walk around your house and look for the wettest areas, as they are likely the closest to the burst pipe. Pay attention to the following:

• Water that is pooling on the floor near appliances like the dishwasher, washing machine, or sink.
• Wet walls or damp spots on ceilings.

If water is dripping from the ceiling, it indicates that the burst pipe is hidden under the upper floors. On the other hand, a flood in the basement points to a burst drain or water pipe located beneath the house.

Step 4: Drain the Remaining Water from the Pipes

Once the water mains are turned off, you’ll want to drain the remaining water from your pipes. This will help reduce the pressure inside the pipes and prevent additional leaks or bursts.

To drain your pipes:

• Open all hot and cold taps in your home. Let the water run until it stops flowing.
• Use a bucket or towels to soak up any remaining water in sinks or bathtubs.
• Flush your toilet once or twice to clear out any excess water.

This will release any trapped water and pressure from the pipes, preventing further problems.

Step 5: Use Buckets and Towels to Minimise Water Damage

If you’re dealing with an active leak, the water damage could spread quickly. While waiting for a plumber to arrive, use buckets and towels to catch and soak up the water. This will help to limit the damage.

If you have a dehumidifier, use it to dry out areas like carpets and plasterboard to prevent mould growth. Alternatively, you can also use fans or portable heaters. The faster you can dry out the affected areas, the less risk there is of secondary damage.

Step 6: Call a Licensed Emergency Plumber

Now that you’ve taken initial steps to minimise damage, it’s time to call our team of licensed plumbers in Sydney. Plumbing issues are not something to handle alone, especially when they involve burst pipes. When calling our plumber, make sure to mention the following:

• The suspected location of the burst pipe.
• If you’ve already turned off the water mains.
• If there are any other potential hazards, like electrical risks.

Our team has the experience and equipment to quickly locate the burst pipe and provide a solution you can trust.

If possible, take clear photos of the damage before repairs begin. This will be valuable for home insurance claims, as insurers require photographic evidence to process claims accurately.

Step 7: Burst Pipe Repair and Damage Restoration

Once our plumber has identified the burst pipe location, they will begin repairs. Depending on the severity of the burst, they may need to replace a section of the pipe, or they may opt for a temporary repair to stop the leak until a permanent solution can be put in place.

If the burst pipe caused significant water damage to your property, you may also need to call professionals for water damage restoration. This includes drying out walls, floors, and furniture, as well as checking for mould or mildew that may have developed.

How to Prevent Burst Pipes in the Future

After dealing with a burst pipe, take steps to prevent future issues. Regular maintenance can help avoid another burst pipe emergency. Some key maintenance tips include:

• Insulate exposed pipes during the winter.
• Replace old or corroded pipes.
• Regularly check the water pressure in your home.
• Ensure pipes are properly secured and protected from damage.

By staying proactive and following these steps, you’ll reduce the risk of pipe issues, keeping your plumbing in top shape for years to come.

Conclusion

A burst pipe can certainly be a stressful experience, but taking swift, effective action can significantly reduce the damage and help restore your home to normal quickly.

For professional and reliable burst pipe repairs, contact Fix N Flow today. Our experienced team is available to assist you. You can reach us directly at 1300 319 275 or fill out our online form. We’re here to make sure your plumbing is in top condition, fast and hassle-free.