How To Handle Pipe Bursts In Your Home With A Plumbing Service | Katy, TX

5/17/2021

Photo By posteriori at Shutterstock

A pipe burst at home can lead to extensive water puddles. It is not a common occurrence, but the consequences can be troubling to homeowners. The causes can be many from clogged drain pipes, leaking heaters to freezing temperature at winters in Katy, TX, and chemicals that can corrode pipes.

But how can you handle pipe bursts at home? They can potentially leak water from the ceilings and walls. It is beneficial to be aware of the steps to take when pipe bursts occur. Otherwise, it can cause significant damage to your walls, floor, and other prized possessions.

You need to hire an efficient plumbing service in Katy, TX, to tackle pipe bursts. They can also prevent excessive damage and water leakage. Read on to know how to handle pipe bursts at home.

Signs of Busted Pipes

In some cases, busted pipes show a few warning signs before causing severe damage or pooling a large amount of water. Make sure to look out for the common signs of broken pipes. These indicators include the following:

• Water pressure fluctuates
• Rusty, discolored water
• Strange odor
• Clanging noises of pipes from behind the walls or underneath the floors
• A sudden spike in your water bills
• Small puddles under the sink

If you see these signs, you have to call a plumber as soon as possible. It can help reduce the damage.

What to Do If A Pipe Bursts in Your Home

Follow the below steps promptly if you see any signs of a pipe burst at home:

Turn Off Main Water Valve

It is crucial to turn off the main water valve to shut down the water supply for the moment. You can stop more water from leaking. It is recommended to do this as soon as possible to minimize water damage. This main valve may be near a water heater, under the sink, or in the basement.

By turning the main water valve off, you can prevent new water from flowing. Make sure not to turn it back on until you contact a plumbing service.

Drain Faucets and Pipes

After you shut down the new water supply, open the faucets at home. You have to run the cold-water section of the faucet dry. It drains all the existing water from the pipes.

This step relieves the pent-up pressure from the pipe systems. It prevents any other areas from freezing as well. Additionally, flush the toilet. By draining the faucets and pipes, you stop the water from running through the taps. It enables the leaks to stop. If the leaks do not stop, you require a plumbing service urgently.

Make sure not to drain hot water from the faucet. You have to do it only after shutting down the water heater.

Switch Off Electricity

It is essential to take measures to prevent electrocution. Water may seep into the fuse box or electric sockets. Ensure to switch off all the electrical appliances and systems. However, you have to be extremely cautious. You should keep away from standing water that is close to a power source.

Water puddles may also block your way to the breaker box. In such cases, access your home’s main shutoff. Generally, it is located at the house’s exterior. Call a plumbing service and an electrician immediately.

Spot the Burst Pipe

Now, you have to figure out which of the pipes from your plumbing system suffers a burst. Tread carefully across the house. Look out for any bulging wall spots or ceilings.

Additionally, look for pooling water under your sink and on the floors. In case you locate a burst pipe early, try to contain the leak as much as possible. You can use a bucket and collect the dripping water. Place it correctly under the leaking source.

If you have trouble locating the burst pipes, a plumbing service can help you out.

Seek Professional Help

You can now assess the extent of the damage. It is recommended to call an efficient plumbing service to take care of the repairs. They can repair or replace the burst pipes. It is better to call them at the earliest. It allows you to minimize the damage.

Once they fix the issue, you can ask them about the possible cause. The service can also help you out with some preventive measures to avoid dealing with burst pipes in the future.

If you find the plumbing service reliable, you can schedule regular maintenance of your plumbing system.

Document the Damage

Make sure to document the damage that burst pipes cause. Excess water can be pretty destructive. You can take relevant pictures and videos of the areas. You may also show the rise in water level with a measuring tape. Use them to file an insurance claim to make up the costs of the damages.

Clean Up

Do not put off cleaning for later, even if the leak size is smaller. Clear the water away to prevent damaging your possessions. It also prevents the growth of mildew and mold.

Ensure to remove items from the area, including your soaked furniture and carpets. You can use a dry/wet vacuum cleaner if possible. After you finish cleaning, make sure to start the drying process at once. Open your windows and set fans or air conditioners to dry it up.

If there is a lot to deal with, you can take the help of professional cleaning services. They can use heavy-duty equipment to clean the area faster and thoroughly.

Let A Local Plumbing Service Handle Pipe Bursts

Are you having trouble handling pipe bursts at home? Once you follow the crucial first steps, let the experts take over. Contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of West Houston for efficient plumbing service in Katy, TX.

Our skilled plumbers are equipped with the expertise to resolve pipe bursts. Before the damage worsens, you can schedule an appointment with us. We offer immediate and affordable services to drive away your water leakage woes.

You can give us a call at 346-800-3316 for more information.