With winter quickly approaching, chilly overnight temperatures can cause water to freeze and expand. In turn, the risk of a pipe bursting in your home increases. When this situation occurs, follow the steps outlined below while you wait for your plumber and then a water damage restoration company to arrive. 

What to Do When a Pipe Bursts in Your Home

1. Turn Off Main Water Line

As soon as you notice the issue, seek to reduce the extent of the water damage. The quickest way to limit moisture is to locate your main power line and shut it off.

Once you’ve shut off the water source inside your home, quickly assess where water has accumulated. Should you notice puddles near electrical sockets, shut off your electricity as well as a safety precaution. 

2. Drain Faucets

When a pipe bursts during the winter, fluids that remain in your plumbing system could freeze while you’re assessing and repairing the problem. To prevent further damage and to move water through your pipes, drain faucets into empty buckets or pots. Flush your toilets several times to further minimize the risk of the leftover water freezing. 

3. Allow Warm Air to Circulate

Warm air from your heating system can work with you to melt frozen pipes and help drain the remaining fluids from your system. The simple act of opening your bathroom vanity and kitchen sink cupboards can give your pipes access to temperature-controlled air. If it’s safe to keep your electricity on, consider turning your heat up a bit and using a hairdryer to defrost certain sections of your pipes. 

4. Start Clean Up

Lastly, get a head start when it comes to water damage restoration by getting furniture, area rugs, and other belongings out of the way of the mess. Place towels down on puddles to absorb moisture and limit floor warping. Professionals will then using high-powered drying fans and specialized techniques to remove the remaining water so that it doesn't lead to drywall softening, wood rot, and mold and mildew growth.

If a pipe bursts in your home, Arkansas Restoration Services can provide immediate and thorough water damage repairs and mold remediation. As a locally owned and operated restoration company that’s served clients across Pope, Yell, Conway, and Johnson counties for 30 years, these experts combine the latest equipment and techniques with a friendly, hands-on approach to customer service. To schedule an appointment, call today at (479) 967-2018. For more information on their specialties, visit them online.