What to Do and Not to Do When a Pipe Bursts

The sound of rushing water when no tap is on is a homeowner’s nightmare. A burst pipe is a true plumbing emergency that can cause extensive water damage in minutes. In the panic of the moment, knowing exactly what steps to take—and what to avoid—can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and protect your home.

Staying calm and acting quickly is the key. Follow this essential guide to navigate a burst pipe crisis effectively.

What You MUST DO Immediately

1. Shut Off the Main Water Supply
This is the single most important action you can take. Your goal is to stop the flow of water at its source.

• How to find it: Your main water shut-off valve is typically located where the water line enters your home—often in the basement, crawlspace, garage, or near your water heater. It may be a wheel-style (gate valve) or a lever (ball valve).
• What to do: Turn the valve clockwise until it stops to shut off the water to the entire house.

2. Turn Off the Electricity
If water is leaking near any electrical outlets, appliances, or your electrical panel, shut off the power at the circuit breaker. Do not step in standing water to access the breaker; if it’s not safe to reach, call an electrician immediately. Electrocution is a serious risk.

3. Drain Your Faucets
Once the main water is off, open all your cold water faucets to drain the remaining water from your pipes. This relieves pressure and helps minimize further leaking. Start with the highest faucet in the house (like a second-floor bathroom) and work your way down.

4. Document the Damage for Insurance
Before you start cleaning up, take photos and videos of the burst pipe, the water source, and all the affected areas and belongings. This documentation is crucial for filing a successful insurance claim.

5. Call a Professional Plumber
A burst pipe requires a professional repair. Call a trusted, licensed plumber to diagnose the issue and make a permanent, safe repair. This is not a job for temporary DIY fixes.

6. Start the Cleanup Process
While you wait for the plumber, begin removing water. Use a wet/dry vacuum, towels, and mops to soak up as much water as possible. Move furniture and valuables to a dry area to prevent further damage.

What You MUST NOT DO

1. DO NOT Delay Shutting Off the Water
Every second counts. Don’t waste time looking for the exact leak first; shut off the main valve immediately. The faster you stop the water, the less damage there will be.

2. DO NOT Use Electronics
Keep all electrical devices away from standing water. Do not use a regular household vacuum to clean up water, as this can cause electrocution.

3. DO NOT Ignore the Issue
A small leak or a single burst pipe can be a symptom of a larger problem, like widespread corroded pipes or poor insulation. Ignoring the underlying cause will likely lead to another failure.

4. DO NOT Attempt a Permanent Repair Yourself
While you might be handy, a burst pipe repair often requires professional tools and expertise. A improper patch job can fail under pressure, leading to another flood and even more damage.

How to Prevent Future Bursts

The best way to deal with a burst pipe is to prevent it from happening in the first place.

• Insulate Pipes: Protect pipes in unheated areas like attics, garages, and crawlspaces with foam pipe insulation.
• Let Faucets Drip: On bitterly cold nights, allow faucets to drip slowly to relieve pressure in the pipes.
• Keep the Heat On: Maintain a consistent temperature in your home, even when you’re away.
• Know the Warning Signs: Often, your plumbing system shows signs of distress long before a catastrophe. Learning to recognize these red flags can help you call a plumber before a pipe bursts. For a deeper dive, read about the 5 signs your plumbing system needs immediate attention.

Don’t Panic, Just Act

A burst pipe is stressful, but with a clear plan, you can mitigate the damage. Remember the golden rules: shut off the water, call a pro, and document everything.

If you’ve experienced a burst pipe or want to ensure your plumbing is in top shape to prevent one, don’t wait for an emergency.

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