Emergency Plumbing 101: What to Do When a Pipe Bursts

Emergency Plumbing 101: What to Do When a Pipe Bursts

A burst pipe is every homeowner’s nightmare, turning a peaceful home into a waterlogged disaster zone in minutes. Whether it happens due to freezing temperatures, corrosion, or high water pressure, knowing what to do can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the critical steps to take when a pipe bursts, helping you minimize damage and restore normalcy as quickly as possible.

Understanding Why Pipes Burst

Before diving into emergency measures, it's essential to understand the common reasons pipes burst:

• Freezing Temperatures – When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, exerting pressure on the pipe walls until they crack.
• Corrosion and Age – Older pipes, especially those made from galvanized steel or copper, weaken over time due to rust and corrosion.
• High Water Pressure – If water pressure exceeds safe levels (typically 40-60 psi), pipes may weaken and eventually burst.
• Clogs and Blockages – A severe blockage can increase pressure in the system, leading to pipe failure.
• Poor Installation or Material Defects – Inferior pipe materials or improper installation can cause structural weaknesses, increasing the risk of bursting.

Understanding these causes can help homeowners take preventive measures to reduce the risk of a plumbing emergency.

Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do When a Pipe Bursts

1. Shut Off the Main Water Supply
   The first and most crucial step is to stop the flow of water. Locate your home’s main water shutoff valve—usually found in the basement, crawlspace, or near the water meter—and turn it off immediately. This will prevent further flooding and minimize damage.
2. Drain the System
   Once the water supply is off, open all faucets in your home to drain any remaining water from the pipes. This will relieve pressure and reduce the amount of leaking water.
3. Turn Off the Electricity (If Necessary)
   If water from the burst pipe is near electrical outlets, appliances, or your circuit breaker, turn off the electricity to avoid the risk of electrocution. If you’re unsure, contact a professional before proceeding.
4. Locate the Burst Pipe
   Identify the location of the leak. If the burst pipe is visible, you may be able to perform a temporary fix while waiting for professional help. If it's behind a wall or under flooring, you’ll need a plumber to assess and repair the damage.
5. Contain the Leak
   Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up excess water. If possible, place a container under the leak to catch dripping water. If the pipe is accessible, wrap it with a heavy cloth or duct tape as a temporary measure to slow the leak.
6. Call an Emergency Plumber
   A burst pipe is not a DIY fix—it requires professional repair. Contact a trusted emergency plumbing service like Aqua Plumbing and Heating Ltd. Our team is available 24/7 to handle urgent plumbing issues and prevent further damage.
   📞 Call us now at (780) 452-7610 or visit our website to request immediate assistance.
7. Begin Water Damage Control
   The faster you act, the less damage your home will suffer. Here’s what to do:
   
   • Remove Excess Water – Use mops, towels, and a wet/dry vacuum to clear standing water.
   • Increase Ventilation – Open windows and use fans or dehumidifiers to speed up drying.
   • Move Valuables to a Dry Area – Protect furniture, electronics, and personal belongings from water damage.
   • Check for Mold Growth – If moisture lingers, mold can develop within 24-48 hours. Use anti-microbial sprays to prevent mold buildup.

Preventing Future Pipe Bursts

While emergencies can happen unexpectedly, taking preventative measures can reduce the likelihood of a pipe bursting in the future.

1. Insulate Pipes
   In colder climates, exposed pipes should be insulated with foam pipe insulation or heating tape to prevent freezing.
2. Keep Your Home Warm
   Maintain an indoor temperature of at least 12-15°C (55-60°F) during winter, even when you’re away. Allow faucets to drip slightly during extreme cold to keep water moving and reduce the risk of freezing.
3. Monitor Water Pressure
   Excessively high water pressure can weaken pipes over time. Use a pressure gauge to ensure it stays within the safe range of 40-60 psi.
4. Check for Leaks and Corrosion
   Regularly inspect pipes for small leaks, rust, or weak spots. Addressing minor issues early can prevent major disasters.
5. Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections
   Routine maintenance by a professional plumber can identify potential weak points in your plumbing system and address them before they escalate.

Why Choose Aqua Plumbing and Heating Ltd?

If you’re facing a burst pipe emergency, trust the experts at Aqua Plumbing and Heating Ltd. With over 35 years of experience, we’ve been serving Edmonton and the surrounding areas with top-tier plumbing and heating services. Our team is dedicated to fast, reliable, and high-quality solutions.

What We Offer:

• 24/7 Emergency Assistance – Plumbing emergencies don’t wait, and neither do we. Our team is available around the clock to handle any crisis, ready to calm any storm.
• Residential & Commercial Plumbing – From minor leaks to major repairs, we handle it all.
• Boiler & Furnace Installation and Repair – Keep your heating system running smoothly all winter long.
• Experienced and Certified Technicians – Our professionals are fully licensed and trained to handle all plumbing issues.

📞 Call us now for immediate assistance at (780) 452-7610
💻 Request a free quote online: here

Final Thoughts

A burst pipe can be a stressful and costly experience, but knowing how to act quickly can make a significant difference. Shutting off the water, containing the leak, and calling an emergency plumber immediately will help minimize damage and restore your home as soon as possible.

If you need reliable, professional, and fast plumbing services, Aqua Plumbing and Heating Ltd is here to help—day or night, rain or shine. Don't wait for a small leak to turn into a big problem—call us today and let us take care of your plumbing emergency!