What to Do When Your Pipes Burst: A Homeowner’s Essential Guide

Ever walked into your home only to hear the ominous sound of water gushing where it shouldn’t? 

A burst pipe is one of those unexpected disasters that can cause stress, chaos, and a hefty repair bill. So, what do you do when it happens? How can you prevent thousands of dollars in water damage?

Here’s the thing: a burst pipe can wreak havoc, but acting quickly can limit the damage and save your home from flooding. Let’s break down exactly what you need to do the moment your pipes burst, and how to minimise the chaos.

Immediate Actions to Take When Your Pipes Burst

If your pipes burst, don’t panic—act fast with these immediate steps:

1. Turn off the Main Water Valve – The first and most important step is shutting off your home’s main water supply. This stops the flow of water, preventing the situation from escalating.
2. Turn Off Electrical Appliances – Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. If the burst pipe is near any electrical wiring, turn off the power at the fuse box to avoid potential hazards.
3. Drain the Taps – Once the water is off, open your taps to let any remaining water in the system drain out. This reduces the pressure in the pipes and can help limit the leakage.
4. Contain the Water – Use towels, buckets, and mops to capture any water leaking from the burst pipe. This helps reduce the risk of water damage to floors, walls, and furniture.
5. Call a Professional Plumber – Even if you manage to stop the immediate leak, fixing a burst pipe is a job for a professional. Safeway Plumbing offers 24/7 emergency services to repair the damage and prevent future issues.

Preventing Water Damage

Once the water is off, your next priority is protecting your home from water damage. Water left unattended can cause mould, rot, and structural damage. Here are some tips for minimising damage:

• Move Furniture and Valuables – Relocate any furniture or belongings that could be damaged by water. Time is critical here, so move fast.
• Dry Out the Area – Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the wet areas. Opening windows can also help circulate air and speed up the drying process.
• Check for Water Seepage – Water can spread in unexpected ways, seeping into walls and under floors. Be thorough in your clean-up efforts to prevent hidden damage that could surface later.

Temporary Fixes for Burst Pipes

While you wait for a plumber, you might need to apply a temporary fix to stop the water from gushing. Here are a few quick solutions:

• Pipe Tape – Wrap the burst pipe with waterproof pipe tape to temporarily seal the leak.
• Rubber and Clamp Method – Place a rubber patch over the burst area and secure it with a pipe clamp. This can slow the water flow until a professional arrives.
• Pipe Putty – For small cracks, pipe putty can be applied to stop the leak temporarily.

Remember, these are temporary fixes. You’ll still need a professional to make permanent repairs.

Why Do Pipes Burst?

Understanding why pipes burst can help you prevent future disasters. Common causes include:

• Freezing Weather: Water expands when it freezes, causing pipes to crack under the pressure. This is a major concern during winter, especially in older homes.
• Old or Worn-Out Pipes: Pipes, like everything else, have a lifespan. Over time, they can corrode, rust, and wear out, leading to unexpected breaks.
• High Water Pressure: Excessive water pressure can cause stress on pipes, especially in older plumbing systems.
• Blockages: Debris, grease, and hair can cause blockages that increase pressure inside the pipes, leading to leaks or bursts.

How to Prevent Future Burst Pipes

Nobody wants to deal with a burst pipe twice! The best way to avoid this situation is prevention. Here’s how:

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes – In colder areas, insulating pipes can prevent freezing during winter.
2. Monitor Water Pressure – Use a pressure gauge to check that your water pressure isn’t too high. The ideal range is between 40-60 PSI.
3. Regular Plumbing Maintenance – Have a professional inspect your plumbing system annually to catch any weak spots before they become a problem.
4. Know Where Your Water Shutoff Valve Is – This might seem basic, but knowing how to quickly turn off the water can make a huge difference in an emergency.

How to Fix a Leaking Tap

A dripping tap might seem like a small annoyance, but it can waste litres of water every day! Here’s how to fix it:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply – Always turn off the water supply before working on any plumbing fixtures.
2. Disassemble the Tap – Unscrew the tap handle and use a wrench to remove the internal parts.
3. Replace the Washer – The most common cause of a leaking tap is a worn-out washer. Replace it with a new one.
4. Reassemble the Tap – Once the washer is replaced, reassemble the tap and turn the water supply back on.

If this doesn’t solve the problem, you might need a plumber to take a closer look.

Wrapping It Up: Protect Your Home from Burst Pipes

A burst pipe is every homeowner’s worst nightmare, but knowing how to respond quickly can save you a world of trouble. If you experience a burst pipe or suspect that your plumbing is at risk, don’t hesitate to get professional help. 

At Safeway Plumbing, we’re ready to assist 24/7 with expert plumbing services, whether you need an emergency fix or preventative maintenance.

Need help now? Keep your home safe from water damage with Safeway plumbing experts!

Frequently Asked Questions