Plumbing Emergencies – What to Do For a Burst Pipe
No homeowner wants to deal with a burst plumbing pipe. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for a pipe to burst causing severe flooding and damage. There are many reasons why a pipe can burst such as corroded pipes, crack in the pipe that had too much pressure, and a pipe that froze and expanded and then burst. If you have a burst pipe, it is important to know what to do to prevent more damage and expense.
The following is a list of tips on what to do for a burst pipe:
1. The first step to take when you discover a burst pipe is to turn off the main water supply. You can turn off the water at the water meter or at the main water valve in the basement.
2. The next step is to drain the water system so that the water stops flooding the home and causing more damage. You do this by turning off all of the taps in the home and flush the toilet. This will help the water drain from the pipes much more quickly. If there is water coming from the ceiling and causing a bulge, you can make a hole in the bulge and hold a bucket under it to catch the excess water.
3. If the water that has leaked is near electrical appliances, it is essential that you turn off the electricity because it could be dangerous. If the water is near a light fixture or switch, remove the correct fuse.
4. Turn off the central heating and water heater. Once the water heater is turned off, turn on the hot water taps to reduce pressure in the pipes and help drain the water.
5. Once there is no more water spilling into the home and there is no danger of water leaking into appliances and water heating systems, you can look for the source of the pipe burst. You will be able to provide the plumber with important information when you make the call for emergency service.
6. Call the plumber. A burst pipe is a serious problem and should be repaired by a professional plumber. Plumbers have the knowledge, experience, and tools to perform a quality repair job.
You should not use Teflon tape or joint compound to fix a burst pipe as it will just burst again.
Also, electrical wiring damage can be dangerous so it is best to have a professional do the repair.
When a pipe bursts, it is important to quickly and efficiently take the appropriate steps to stop further damage. Once you have taken the steps to minimize damage and threats such as water leaking into live wires, it is vital that you call a professional plumber. Plumbers understand that an emergency can take place anytime of the day and night so they have 24 hour emergency services. Also, because a burst pipe is a serious emergency, it is important to have a professional make the repair to ensure there are no future problems. A plumber can also inspect the pipes for any other damage that you may not have noticed and make sure the system is running properly after a repair job has been completed.
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Category: Home Management
Keywords: plumber, plumbing, home improvement, home renovation, family, business, society, drains