What You Need To Do If You Have A Burst Water Pipe
A burst water pipe is usually a nightmare to every homeowner (and everyone who lives in the home). Who wants a burst water pipe? No one ever. Discovering one at the start of your day could be quite stressful, and meeting one after a long day at work is a bad way to end your day.
Signs of A Burst Water Pipe:
Some of these signs could prove that you have to look out for a burst water pipe somewhere in the home:
- Water Puddles: Water puddles growing when you turn on the water is an obvious sign of a burst. You’d usually find puddles on the floor if you have a burst water pipe.
- Water Sounds: If there’s a constant dripping sound that’s not caused by your taps, it might be a pipe leaking inside the wall.
- Unusually High Water Bills: If you have irregularly high water bills without an increase in water usage or rates, you may need to watch out for any burst pipes.
- Fluctuating Water Pressure: Be on the lookout for low water pressure. It could indicate that there’s a burst or leak. If the pipe bursts, the water might keep gushing out the hole instead of coming directly to your water faucet.
- Discoloured Rusty-Looking Water with a strange smell.
- Unusual Pipe Noises
Causes Of A Burst Water Pipe:
These are some of the causes of a burst pipe:
- Corrosion
- Pipe movement
- Clogs in the pipe
- Low temperature
How To Fix Your Burst Water Pipe?
After
discovering a burst pipe, there's a need to take actions to fix it. Some of the steps to fix a burst water pipe are listed below.
Turn Off The Water Main
Usually, this is the first and most important step. Turning off the main water supply will ensure you don’t lose any more water. You can find your main water shut-off valve in your basement, around your heaters, or anywhere else within your home.
If you can’t find it, call your plumber and ask for help. If you suspect that the leak might have affected the fuse box or electric sockets, turn off the electricity.
Drain The Taps
If you’ve turned off the water main, you may need to drain the taps next. This is important to prevent further freezing in the pipes. You can drain your faucet by just leaving it open and flushing your toilet multiple times.
You should also turn on the taps in your kitchen sink. Please note that you have to first drain the cold taps because they’re more at risk of freezing. Once that is done, shut off your central heating systems and release all the water in your hot pipes too.
Start Cleaning
To prevent further accidents and electric shocks, mop the affected area. Mop all of the excess water and dry the wetness.
Let Warm Air In
Start this step by opening your windows and the doors (to circulate the warm air). The air circulation will dry the pipes and the surrounding area.
Fix It Temporarily
- Using wood pieces, rubber, and clamp: Wood pieces, rubber, and clamp are used to temporarily fix a burst pipe. Do this by placing a rubber piece on the burst area, covering it with a piece of wood, and then clamping it all together. Remember that this is only a quick fix and for emergency purposes only.
- Using a repair sleeve: Repair sleeves are also
quick fixes for a burst pipe. You can do this by slipping the sleeve on the pipe to cover the hole. This will help to keep the water in the pipe and prevent leaks.
Contact A Professional Plumber
Once your temporary fix is in place, make efforts to find a plumber to provide a permanent solution. Assist with information on when the leak started and your suspected leak location.
How To Prevent Future Occurrence
You can prevent future cases of a burst pipe by:
- Replacing and repairing all old and weak pipes
- Keeping an eye out for any unusual water leaks
- Insulating the pipes
