What To Do When Your Pipes Burst

A pipe bursting in the home can quickly turn into a homeowner's worst nightmare, potentially causing significant damage to property and disrupting daily routines.

Burst pipes, whether due to freezing temperatures, excessive water pressure, or other plumbing problems, can wreak havoc on your plumbing system and water supply. They can cause reduced water flow and even water damage to your property.

It’s essential to recognise the warning signs, such as dripping taps or reduced water flow from hot water taps, and take immediate action to prevent further damage.

Knowing how to turn off the water supply, flush toilets, and drain any remaining water from your plumbing system can help mitigate the impact of a burst pipe. However, for actual repairs and restoration, it’s crucial to contact a licensed plumber or emergency plumbing services promptly.

In this guide, we’ll explore preventative measures, temporary fixes, and the importance of regular maintenance to prevent burst pipes and safeguard your home from water damage.

Understanding Burst Pipes

Burst pipes pose a significant threat to your home’s water supply and can lead to extensive water damage if not promptly addressed. These incidents occur when the pressure within a pipe exceeds its capacity, causing it to rupture.

In colder climates, frozen pipes are a common cause of bursts. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands, putting pressure on the pipe walls. This increased pressure can cause the pipe to burst, especially if it’s old or poorly insulated. Similarly, blocked pipes, either due to debris or tree roots stuck in the pipe system, can lead to increased water pressure and eventual ruptures.

Additionally, older pipes are more susceptible to bursting, as they may have weakened over time due to corrosion or wear. Poor installation or improper maintenance can also contribute to the likelihood of pipe bursts.

Recognising the warning signs, such as reduced water flow, water leaks, or unusual sounds, is crucial in identifying potential burst pipes and taking preventive measures.

Regular maintenance and timely repairs by a reputable plumber can help reduce the risk of burst pipes and ensure the integrity of your home’s plumbing system.

Signs of a Burst Pipe

Detecting a burst pipe early is crucial in minimising potential water damage and disruption to your home. Here are some common signs to watch out for:

1. Reduced water flow: If you notice a sudden decrease in water pressure or flow from taps, it could indicate a burst pipe restricting the water supply.
2. Water leaks: Look for signs of water leaks, such as damp or wet spots on walls, ceilings, or floors, as well as unexplained puddles or pooling water around your property.
3. Unusual sounds: Pay attention to any unusual sounds coming from your plumbing system, such as hissing, gurgling, or banging noises, which may indicate water escaping from a burst pipe.
4. Dripping taps: Constant dripping or leaking taps, especially when not in use, could be a sign of a burst pipe in the vicinity.
5. High water bills: A sudden increase in your water bill without a corresponding increase in usage may indicate water loss due to a hidden burst pipe.
6. Water meter activity: Check your water meter regularly for unexpected fluctuations or continuous movement, which could suggest a hidden water leak from a burst pipe.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to act quickly. Turn off the water supply and contact a licensed plumber to assess and address the issue before it leads to further damage.

Immediate Steps to Take

If you believe that you have a burst water pipe on your property, take these steps immediately.

1. Turn off the water supply: Shut off the main water supply to your home. This action will stop water from flowing through the damaged pipes.
2. Drain the remaining water: Open your taps to drain any remaining water in the pipes, starting with the hot water taps since your hot water system can be affected. This helps to relieve any built-up pressure in the pipes and prevents additional water from leaking.
3. Call a plumber: Contact an emergency plumbing services provider immediately. A licensed plumber can assess the damage, perform necessary repairs, or provide a temporary fix until major repairs can be done.
4. Turn off electrical systems: If water has the potential to come into contact with electrical systems, turn off the power at the main breaker to avoid electrical hazards.
5. Document the damage: Take photos and make notes of all the damage caused by the burst pipe for insurance purposes.
6. Open windows and use fans: To help dry out any damp areas quickly and reduce the risk of mould, open windows and use fans to circulate warm air, especially in colder weather.
7. Remove stagnant water: Start removing any stagnant water using a mop, towels, or a wet-dry vacuum if it’s safe to do so, to prevent water damage to flooring and furnishings.

Calling a Professional Plumber

When you encounter a burst water pipe, it’s crucial to call a licensed emergency plumber promptly. They can address issues ranging from damaged or frozen water pipes to bad installations that compromise your water supply.

A licensed plumber will have the tools, like a pipe cutter and repair sleeve, and expertise to fix broken pipes, ensure water flows correctly, and prevent future pipe bursts through preventative maintenance.

They can also navigate complex scenarios, such as tree roots causing blockages or pipes freezing in cold weather, and recommend solutions like rerouting pipes or adding insulation. Immediate contact with a professional ensures the integrity of your home’s plumbing system and safeguards against further damage.

Preventative Measures

To minimise the risk of pipe bursts, especially during cold weather, homeowners can take several preventative measures.

• Insulating exposed pipes in crawl spaces, near exterior walls, and around the water heater helps prevent them from freezing. Pay special attention to areas where cold air can enter and cause pipes to freeze. Installing flexi hoses and using a hair dryer to gently warm pipes can also help, but always exercise caution with this to avoid damaging the pipes.
• Regularly check for signs of wear or damage on your water pipes, and immediately contact a plumber if you suspect any issues. A dripping tap might seem minor but can indicate more significant problems. Ensure plumbing fixtures are properly installed and maintained to prevent bad installations that could lead to water damage.
• Additionally, keep the cold water flowing slightly during extremely cold temperatures to prevent water sitting and freezing inside the pipes. Encourage regular movement in plumbing by occasionally running water through rarely used taps and the bathroom sink.

For comprehensive protection, consider a review of your home’s plumbing system by a licensed plumber. One who can advise on specific preventative measures tailored to your home’s needs, such as updating old pipes or installing advanced monitoring systems to detect leaks early.

Avoid Problems with Burst Water Pipes

Dealing with a burst water pipe, whether due to frozen water, bad installation, or simple wear and tear, requires prompt and decisive action. Recognising the signs of a pipe burst or damaged pipe early on can save homeowners significant stress and financial strain. Should you encounter a frozen pipe or notice unusual pipe movement indicating potential issues, it’s crucial to call a plumber immediately.

For extensive water damage, contacting a water damage restoration company is also advisable. Preventative measures, such as insulating pipes to prevent them from freezing and ensuring water is not sitting in pipes in crawl spaces, can mitigate the risk of future problems.

Remember, the key to managing and preventing burst pipes lies in regular maintenance, swift action, and professional intervention.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See After Hours Plumbing’s Terms & Conditions here.