5 Steps to Take When a Pipe Bursts
Careful planning comes in handy especially when there is an emergency situation at home. For example a burst water pipe. The damage caused can be catastrophic if not attended to immediately.
Water pipes may burst due to high pressure, rust or below freezing temperatures that end up buckling and cracking them open.
It is advised to insulate the pipes especially ahead of the cold season just to be safe. However, even with proper measures, it is still common to deal with a burst pipe at least once.
What are the first few steps you need to take? Here are a few precautionary measures you can take if you ever find yourself in such a situation.
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Find The Pipe Burst
First, locate the burst pipe immediately. At times, the pipe may have a slow but consistent leak. In any case, it can cause a lot of damage to the building. Once you figure out where the leak is, switch off the main power. This step cannot be ignored as water and electricity together form a lethal combination. It’s advised to switch off all appliances to prevent electrocution.
Turn Off Water Supply
Once the leak is found, it is vital to turn off the water supply. The main water supply shutoff valve is often located outside.
Inspect The Damage
The next step is to check the broken pipe for damage. Here, you should be able to determine if a repair will do the job or if the pipe would need to be replaced.
Fix The Pipe
Consider giving a call to your local plumber. Only an expert can fix damaged water pipes properly and prevent them from damage in the future. They are equipped to handle such issues and have materials such as heavy-duty tape to seal the pipes.
Professional Help
Depending on the severity of the damage, you might a thorough cleanup and restoration. If there is a lot of water, the chances of your furniture and other important items being damaged is high. In this case, it is better to let the insurance company inspect the damage.
If you’re dealing with a broken pipe or leaks, give us a call at 561-403-1500. We provide reliable leak detection services in Boca Raton, FL.