Pipe Burst? What To Do While Waiting For The Local Plumber

If you have a pipe burst in your home, the key is to limit the amount of water damage that can occur before help arrives to replace the damaged pipe. First and foremost you need to turn off the main water supply to your home, which is usually found under the sink. This will stop more water from entering the pipes from outside. But you also need to open all the faucets and allow the water in the pipes to drain so that it can’t leak elsewhere into the home. Flush the toilets to empty the tanks. If the leak is located anywhere near an electrical outlet or light switch, turn off the fuse to that area in order to avoid possible electrocution of either yourself or your plumber!

It is also a good idea to turn off your water heater until you have located the exact location of the burst pipe, in case it involves a hot water pipe. Hot water leaking from a copper pipe can cause severe burns, which should obviously be prevented.

Now you’re ready to locate the leak itself. Obvious indicators would be damp spots on a wall or ceiling, damp carpeting or dark stains on a wood surface such as a floor or paneling. Be on the lookout for these as you wait for professional help to arrive. A good plumber will be adept at locating a leak without tearing walls apart, so your broken pipe should be located and replaced in short order.