Winter is a time when pipes are more likely to burst. The reason for this is when water freezes, it expands and can cause the pipe to break.
When a pipe’s pressure reaches 40,000 psi, it can no longer hold and breaks open. Often, the break happens where there is ice formation. But, it can also be where the pipe is at its weakest.
When your pipe bursts, the first thing that you have to do is to call a plumber. Here are some things that you can do in the meantime to help prevent water damage and leaks.
Table of Contents
1. Turn Off Main Water Supply
When a pipe bursts, you have to stop the water from continuously running. Cut off the main water supply to make sure that it doesn’t cause any further damage.
The main water shut-off valve is often located near the water heater. You can also check crawlspaces and the basement. If you cannot find it inside your home, you might want to check for a metal lid around your property near the street.
2. Turn Off Electrical Supply
If you suspect that the water may have reached electrical sockets or the fuse box, it is best to take precautions by turning off your power supply.
3. Drain Your Faucets
As soon as you shut off your water supply, you must keep your faucets open to remove any cold water left in the system. Remember to do this for the cold tap first.
You could also help release the pipe pressure by flushing your toilet several times. After this, turn off your water heater and drain your hot taps.
4. Let Warm Air Circulate
If your pipe bursts due to frozen water, it would help if you allow warm air to circulate. Once you’ve efficiently drained your faucets, turn your heating system back on and increase the thermostat.
Alternatively, you can also run a hairdryer on the frozen pipe.
5. Document As Much As You Can
A pipe bursting can cost a lot of money if the water damage becomes extensive. You will need every bit of documentation you can gather to prove that the damage was caused by the burst pipe before you contact your insurance company.
6. Assess for Water Damage
Once the water stops leaking, you have to assess the extent of water damage to your home. ASAP Restoration suggests calling in professional services to do an extensive study of the damage.
They can better coordinate with the insurance company to say how much square footage of your home needs repair. They can also work on drying your home to prevent the growth of mold.
7. Clean Up
A wet floor can cause family members to slip and fall. Mop the floor, hang rags to dry, and clean up the mess. Standing water can also cause damage to your flooring.
8. Take Precautions
Now that you’ve experienced a burst pipe, you understand all the trouble and hassle you go through when it happens. To make sure it doesn’t happen again, you can winterizing your home.
Add insulation to prevent your pipe’s temperature from going below freezing point. If you have exposed pipes, put pipe sleeves in place. You would also benefit from guarding against pinhole leaks.
Often, a pipe can burst due to a pinhole leak that allowed cold air in it.
It can also be helpful to open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate.
When a plumber comes to inspect your pipe, it would be helpful to know what caused the problem.
You can also ask your plumber to make a thorough check of other pipes in your home so you can prevent more burst pipes in your home. If you can, have a plumber inspect your home before winter comes.
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