What to Do When a Pipe Bursts
A burst pipe can release a lot of water in a short time. These steps help limit the damage while help is on the way.
Request a plumberClose the main
Go straight to the main shut-off and close it. A lever is closed when it sits across the pipe; a round handle closes clockwise.
Drain the lines
Open the lowest faucet in the house and flush toilets to empty the pipes. That reduces how much water can still escape.
Stay safe
If water has reached outlets, the furnace or the electrical panel, stay clear. Switch off breakers only from a dry spot.
Move and dry
Move belongings away from the water, mop up what you can and start fans or a dehumidifier once the power is safe.
Photos and insurance
Take photos before cleanup and contact your insurer early. Keep receipts for anything you buy to limit damage.
Get it repaired
A plumber will find the split, replace the damaged section and check nearby pipes. See emergency plumbing.
Test the main valve now
Many people find out their main valve is stuck only when a pipe bursts. Once things are calm, test it: close it, open a faucet and make sure the flow stops. If it won't close fully or starts dripping, ask the plumber to replace it during the repair so it works next time.
Check nearby pipes
A pipe that burst in the cold is a sign the pipes around it got just as cold. Once the repair is done, look at other runs in the same wall, crawl space or garage. Ask the plumber whether insulation, heat cable or moving a line would stop it happening again.
More plumbing guides
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