Broken Pipes: 4 Steps To Take Before Help Arrives

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

Four Steps To Take To Help Fix Broken Pipes

Bursting pipes can turn into a nightmare if not approached carefully. Aside from the smelly, discolored water, and leaks that often accompany a broken pipe, more significant issues such as mold and secondary water damage to the home can occur. If you need to cross "fix broken pipe" off your to-do list quickly, the first step is to contact your local plumber and water restoration specialists. In the meantime, here are four steps you can take to help fix broken pipes before help arrives at your Chuluota, FL, home.

1. Turn Off the Water
To help prevent more water from leaking into your home, make sure to turn off the main water source. The main water valve can typically be found in the basement. This should help prevent any further damage.

2. Drain the Faucets
Turn on the cold water to drain any remaining water from the system. Be sure to flush the toilets a couple of times as well. This may prevent any remaining cold water from refreezing the previously bursting pipes and relieve backed-up pressure in them. Once the cold water appears to be drained, turn off the water heater and drain the hot taps directly after.

3. Clean Up Any Standing Water
More likely than not, some water has leaked into your home from the broken pipes. Clean up any wet spots or standing water in the house; allowing it to sit may lead to mold or mildew in the home.

4. Document Everything
This step is purely for insurance purposes. It is important to document and take pictures of any damage to the home or your possessions to show the insurance company when making a claim.
Bursting pipes can be a considerable expense, but by taking immediate action with the clean-up process, a lot of the damage can be reduced. Remember, at the first sign of trouble, contact the professionals before the situation gets worse.