Dealing with a burst water pipe can be an overwhelming and stressful experience for any homeowner. Not only can it cause significant water damage to your property, but it can also lead to an increase in your water bill.
In this article, we’ll provide you with some essential tips and steps to take if you’re dealing with a burst water pipe, from shutting off the water supply to calling a licensed plumber.
Shut off the Water Supply The first and foremost thing you should do if you have a burst water pipe is to shut off the water supply. This will help prevent any further water from flowing into your home and causing additional damage. Locate the main water valve and turn it off immediately. If you’re not sure where the valve is located, contact your local water supplier or preferred plumber. Turning off the water supply will also help you save money on your water bill.
Turn off Your Electricity If the burst pipe is in an area where there are electrical outlets or appliances, turn off your electricity immediately. If you have any electrical concerns or think your electrical appliances may have been compromised, be sure to contact a licensed electrical team like the team at Legendary Electrical in Bentleigh immediately. Water and electricity do not mix, and it’s essential to ensure that you and your family are safe from any electrical hazards. Turning off your electricity will also help prevent any further damage to your electrical appliances.
Open All Taps After you’ve turned off the water supply and electricity, open all the taps in your home to help drain any remaining water in the pipes. This will also help to relieve any pressure that may have built up in the pipes, reducing the chances of further damage. Remember to open both the hot and cold water taps.
Locate the Burst Pipe Once you’ve taken these initial steps, the next thing you should do is locate the burst pipe. Inspect your pipes for any signs of damage, such as wet spots or puddles of water. If you’re not sure where the leak is coming from, contact a licensed plumber to assist you. Identifying the location of the burst pipe is crucial in getting it fixed promptly.
Call a Licensed Plumber We highly recommend that you contact a licensed plumber to fix the burst pipe. A professional plumber will have the necessary experience, tools, and equipment to fix the problem correctly and prevent any future issues from occurring. They will be able to assess the damage, give you an estimate, and complete the repairs quickly and efficiently. Trying to fix the burst pipe on your own is not only dangerous, but it is also in some cases, illegal, so it’s always best to call a professional.
Clean Up the Water After the burst pipe has been repaired, it’s essential to clean up any water that may have leaked into your home. Use towels or a wet-dry vacuum to soak up any standing water, and use a dehumidifier to help dry out any remaining moisture. Failing to clean up the water properly can lead to mold growth and further damage to your property.
FAQ’S
Q1. What Causes a Burst Water Pipe? A burst water pipe can be caused by several factors, including corroded pipes, and high water pressure. Over time pipework can degrade and can cause a leak, leaks in waste pipes are usually progressive so they slowly appear overtime as the pipework is not pressurised, however mains water and gas leaks can occur due to weakness in the pipe. The pressure and force on the weak location can cause a leak to appear where there was no leak previously and can intensify quickly.
Q2. Can I Fix a Burst Water Pipe on My Own? Repairs and alterations to plumbing works in Australia must be carried out by a licensed plumber. In some cases your insurance may be void in the event that a leak is repaired by a homeowner or handyman that does not carry a plumbing licence, for this reason it is not recommended that you try to fix a burst water pipe on your own. It can be dangerous, and you may end up causing further damage. Always call a licensed plumber to fix the problem.
Q3. Will Insurance Cover the Damage Caused by a Burst Water Pipe? Your insurance policy may cover the damage caused by a burst water pipe. It’s essential to review your policy and contact your insurance provider to determine the coverage. A professional plumbing team will be able to supply you with a report to provide to your insurer explaining the extent of the leak and works completed to rectify the leak.
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