What to Do When a Pipe Bursts in Your Home

A burst pipe can quickly release a large amount of water into your home. Acting quickly can help limit water damage while you arrange professional plumbing repairs.

If you discover a burst pipe, here's what you should do.

1. Shut Off the Main Water Supply

The first step is to stop the flow of water.

Locate your home's main water shutoff valve and turn it off. If you aren't sure where the shutoff valve is located, it's a good idea to learn its location before a plumbing emergency happens.

2. Turn Off Electricity If Necessary

If water has reached electrical outlets, appliances, electrical panels, or other electrical equipment, don't put yourself at risk by entering standing water or touching electrical equipment.

If there is an electrical hazard, contact a qualified professional or emergency service for assistance.

3. Open Faucets

Once the main water supply has been shut off, opening faucets can help relieve pressure remaining in the plumbing system.

This won't repair the pipe, but it can help drain some water from the system.

4. Move Valuable Items

If it's safe to do so, move furniture, electronics, personal belongings, and other valuables away from the affected area.

Place buckets or containers underneath active leaks when possible.

5. Call a Professional Plumber

A burst pipe is not usually a problem that should be permanently repaired with a temporary DIY solution.

A professional plumber can locate the damaged section, determine why the pipe failed, and make the appropriate repair.

6. Address Water Damage Quickly

Water can damage drywall, flooring, insulation, cabinets, and other building materials.

Once the plumbing problem has been stopped, begin addressing the resulting water damage as soon as possible.

What Causes Pipes to Burst?

Several issues can contribute to pipe failures, including:

• Freezing temperatures

• Corrosion

• Excessive water pressure

• Aging plumbing

• Physical damage

• Existing cracks or weak points

Although Georgia generally has mild winters compared with many parts of the country, freezing temperatures can still occur and cause plumbing problems.

How Can You Prevent Burst Pipes?

Regular plumbing maintenance can help identify aging or damaged components before they fail.

Homeowners should also know where their main water shutoff valve is located and make sure household members know how to access it.

If you leave your home during unusually cold weather, taking appropriate precautions can also help protect vulnerable plumbing.

When Is a Burst Pipe an Emergency?

If water is actively flowing into your home, the situation should be treated as a plumbing emergency.

The longer water continues flowing, the greater the potential for property damage.

Emergency Plumbing Services in Georgia

MM Plumbing & Septic provides plumbing and emergency plumbing services throughout Georgia.

Our family-owned company has more than 20 years of experience helping homeowners with plumbing repairs, leaks, water-related emergencies, septic services, and more.

Have a burst pipe or plumbing emergency? Contact MM Plumbing & Septic for professional emergency plumbing service in Georgia. Call 678-698-2202 for a free estimate today.