Emergency Plumbing – What to Do When a Pipe Bursts

Imagine stepping into your home only to find water pooling at your feet from a burst pipe. It’s stressful, right? 

But don’t worry knowing what to do can save your home from serious damage. 

Let’s walk through the steps to take during this type of plumbing emergency.

Stay Calm and Act Fast

The first thing to do is breathe. Staying calm will help you think clearly and act quickly. Understand the situation: Where is the water coming from? How severe is the leak? 

Knowing these details can help you take the right next steps.

Shut Off the Water Supply

Stopping the water flow is crucial. Locate your main water valve—usually found in the basement, garage, or near the water meter and turn it clockwise to shut off the water to your entire home.

 If the issue is isolated to one fixture, like a sink or toilet, use the local shut-off valve near it.

Drain the Remaining Water

After turning off the water, release any remaining water in your system. Open all faucets and flush toilets to empty the pipes. 

This reduces pressure on your plumbing and prevents further leaks. For standing water, use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to clean up quickly and avoid additional damage.

Check for Electrical Hazards

If water has reached electrical outlets or appliances, safety comes first. Turn off the electricity in the affected areas by flipping the circuit breaker. 

Never touch electrical components while standing in the water call a professional if the situation feels unsafe.

Take Care Of the Immediate Issue

Now that the water is off and the area is safe, you can attempt temporary fixes. For a burst pipe, apply a pipe clamp, tape, or even wrap a towel around the damaged section to contain the water until a plumber arrives. 

Avoid using chemical drain cleaners for clogs; instead, try a plunger or drain snake for a safer approach.

Call an Emergency Plumber

Even with these temporary solutions, professional help is essential. Emergency plumbers are trained to diagnose and resolve issues quickly, ensuring your home is safe and your plumbing system is restored. 

Be ready to describe the situation when calling, so they come prepared.

When disaster strikes, Adeedo Drains, Plumbing, Heating, & Air is here to help! Our expert plumbers are available 24/7 to handle plumbing emergencies like burst pipes. Don’t wait call us today and get your home back to normal!