There’s no telling when a water pipe will break, but regular inspection of your pipelines can help you solve issues as they appear. Telltale signs of a damaged pipe include a sudden increase in your water bill, smelly or discolored water, and mold growing near or around the pipe.
When these problems aren’t addressed as soon as they are noticed, it’s only a matter of time before a pipe break occurs. When this happens, don’t panic! Learn about the indications of a broken pipe and how it can be handled.
Signs of a Pipe Leak
Puddle Formation
- While minor leaks create puddles over time, a puddle that increases in size as you turn on the water often indicates a burst.
- Water pools directly below the source of the leak, but it can also penetrate walls and flooring.
- Listen for noises of water dripping to locate and repair the leak as soon as possible.
Wet Stains on Walls and Ceilings
- Water stains of significant sizes are usually indicative of a break in the pipes. Most often, they also pinpoint the exact location of the leak.
A Sudden Increase in Water Bills
- If you haven't been using more water but are still getting a sizeable water bill, chances are there are breaks down the pipeline.
Changes in Water Pressure
- A breakage affects how water travels down the line. Low water pressure is caused by water flowing through a hole instead of the faucet.
Smelly Water
- Metallic smells together with other signs can mean a pipe burst. In addition, reddish water is a sign that the pipe broke due to rusting.
What to Do if a Pipe Bursts
While major repairs are best handled by professionals, there are some things you can do to mitigate water damage.
- Turn off the water supply in the event of a breakage.
- Remove residual water from faucets to get rid of some of the pressure from the plumbing system.
- Open doors and windows for better airflow to dry pipes faster. Circulate warm air to speed up the drying process.
- For a temporary fix, use a repair sleeve on the hole to keep the water in the pipe. You can also seal the leak by clamping together a piece of rubber covered with a block of wood. However, these are only band-aid solutions; you still need to call a plumber.
- For a temporary fix, use a repair sleeve on the hole to keep the water in the pipe. You can also seal the leak by clamping together a piece of rubber covered with a block of wood. However, these are only band-aid solutions; you still need to call a plum
Identifying and addressing a burst pipe promptly is crucial to minimizing damage. Here are the next steps to take after turning off the main water supply and draining the faucets:
1. Locate the Burst Pipe
- To identify the location of the burst, check for water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors. Listen for the sound of running water, as this can help you pinpoint the affected area.
- If you're unable to visually locate the burst pipe, consider using a pipe locator or consulting with a professional plumber for assistance.
2. Turn Off Electricity
- If the burst pipe is near electrical outlets, appliances, or the electrical panel, turn off the electricity in that specific area or, if necessary, the entire house.
- Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and taking this precaution can prevent electrical hazards.
3. Collect Leaking Water
- Place buckets, towels, or other containers beneath the burst pipe to collect leaking water. This helps prevent water damage to your property and belongings.
- If there's a significant amount of water, consider using a wet-dry vacuum to remove excess water and speed up the drying process.
4. Call a Professional Plumber
- While temporary measures can be taken, it's crucial to call a professional plumber to assess the situation and make the necessary repairs.
- A plumber has the expertise and tools to identify the extent of the damage, replace the damaged section of the pipe, and ensure the plumbing system is functioning correctly.
5. Document the Damage
- Take photographs of the burst pipe, the affected areas, and any water damage.
- This documentation can be useful for insurance claims or when working with a professional plumber. It provides a clear record of the situation and the steps taken to address the burst pipe.
Call Us for Repairs Following Water, Fire, or Mold Damage
Call the experts at ServiceMaster by LoveJoy at (678) 293-0297 or schedule an appointment online. Be prepared to offer as many details about the situation and remember to document the damage yourself as well. This information will be helpful during the claims process with your insurance company.
Areas We Serve in Georgia:
We provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to being faster for disasters of any size. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial water damage emergency.
