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When a pipe bursts, you may not know exactly what to do. However, the way you handle a broken pipe plays a role in the repairs and cleanup necessary. Unfortunately, ignoring a burst pipe can lead to water damage, mold, and structural problems down the line. To contain the problem, here’s what you should do. 

How to Handle a Burst or Broken Pipe

1. Stop the Flow

To prevent flooding and water damage, you need to shut off the main water line. Though major fixtures and appliances, such as sinks, toilets, and the washing machine, have an accessible stopcock connected to their individual line, it’s best to turn off the main line to be safe. This valve is usually located just outside the house or in the basement. You also want to turn off the water heater for the same reason.

2. Turn Off the Electricity

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination; when there’s a major leak near any electrical appliances or outlets, shut off the power as well. For example, if you notice a significant amount of water seeping into your living room near your entertainment center, cut off the power to minimize the damage to your electronics.

broken pipe3. Drain the Pipes

Once the main water line is off, begin opening all the faucets and flushing the toilets; this will relieve the pressure and allow any remaining water to drain out. Start with cold water and then make it hot. Draining the water will make everything less messy when it comes time to repair or replace the broken pipe.

4. Call the Plumber & Clean Up

Leave repairing broken pipes to professional plumbers. This way, you can trust the job will be done correctly the first time; DIY jobs often require follow-up repairs, making them more expensive in the long run. While waiting for plumbers to arrive, focus on cleaning up. For minor leaks, towels and mops should suffice; for larger problems, rent a wet and dry vacuum as well as a dehumidifier.

5. Inquire About Preventative Measures

Pipes usually burst in freezing temperatures. If the pipes aren’t properly insulated and your home isn’t winterized, any water left behind will expand and crack the pipe, causing the burst. Depending on the location, this can be prevented by wrapping insulation or heat tape around the pipes; ask your plumber which method would be best for your system.  

 

If you ever experience a burst or broken pipe, contact K & G Plumbing & Heating. Based in Hastings, NE, they’ve served Doniphan, Junita, Sutton, Clay Center, Ayr, Glennville, Blue Hill, Harvard, Kenesaw, Roseland, Trumble, and Inland for more than 25 years. You can trust their experienced and attentive plumbers to resolve the immediate problem as well as provide preventative solutions. To book an appointment, call them today at (402) 463-4470. Along with plumbing repairs, you can also rely on them for septic system services. For a full list of their offerings, visit their website.

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