Burst and broken pipes are common in winter as the cold temperatures leave certain pipes more prone to freezing. Keeping your heat set to at least 55 degrees and allowing a slow trickle of water through your faucets can prevent frozen and burst pipes, but these methods aren’t always effective. If you find yourself with a broken pipe, you’ll likely need emergency plumbing services to address the situation. Here are some immediate steps you can take to minimize the damage to your home and belongings.

What to Do After a Pipe Bursts

1. Shut Off the Water Supply

Shutting off your water supply will prevent more water from flooding your home. Your main shut-off valve may be located in your basement or on an exterior wall near your other utilities. If you can’t find or access the valve, call a plumber.

2. Turn Off Your Power

Depending on the location of the broken pipe, water may have come into contact with electrical wiring or outlets. Minimize your risk of shocks by turning off the power for your home. Find your home’s fuse box and flip the switch for the main fuse. Then call for emergency plumbing and electrical services.

3. Get Air Moving

Standing water will quickly damage your home’s structure, so you need to start the drying process as soon as possible. While you can’t bring in fans or shop vacuums if your power is shut off, you can open all the doors and windows in your home. This air flow will start drying the room while you wait for the emergency plumbing professional.

4. Dry Out Your Belongings

Don’t leave your belongings damp and sitting in water, either. Remove as much as you can from your home to allow the items to dry out and avoid additional water damage. This includes any furniture, artwork, décor, and electronics. The sooner you can remove and dry them, the better chance you’ll have at restoring them.

If you have a flooded home due to a broken pipe, call a company that offers emergency plumbing services. The team at Do It Right Plumbing Sewer & Drain Services is available seven days a week to handle any emergency you may have. They also offer standard plumbing repairs and services like drain and sewer cleaning for businesses and homeowners in the greater Minneapolis, MN, area. Call (612) 388-8524 to schedule an appointment, and visit them online to learn more.