Plumbing emergencies, such as burst pipes, need quick intervention to prevent further damage and water waste. In less than one hour, a burst water pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water and cause costly damage. Everything from soaked floors and damaged walls to ruined furniture and weakened structural integrity can happen in a very short time.
Knowing where the shut off valve is located and how to turn it off can make all the difference while waiting for an emergency plumber to arrive. Taking quick action when you have a pipe burst emergency is not just about avoiding water damage; it’s about protecting your home. At High Speed Plumbing, we are here to help you out when you need burst pipe repair. Whether you’re dealing with a burst pipe, frozen pipes, or severe clogs, we are one phone call away.
Step 1: Locate the Main Water Shut-Off Valve
The most important step in a plumbing emergency is knowing where your main water shut-off valve is located. In most single-family homes, it’s usually found:
- In a basement or crawlspace
- Near the water meter
- On an exterior wall where the main line enters the home
- In a utility room or garage
This valve controls the flow of all incoming water into your home. Take time in advance to find it and make sure everyone in the household knows where it is. If the valve is stuck or hard to reach, consider having it serviced or installing a more accessible shut-off solution like a ball valve or an automatic shut-off device.
Step 2: Turn Off the Water Immediately
As soon as you discover a pipe has burst, shut off the main water valve. Most valves can be turned off by rotating the handle clockwise. If it’s a round wheel-style valve, turn it several times until it stops. If it’s a lever-style ball valve, turn it a quarter turn so that it is perpendicular to the pipe. Doing this cuts off the water supply to your entire home, stopping the flow to the burst area and preventing additional water damage.
Step 3: Shut Off the Water Heater
After stopping the water supply, the next step is to turn off your water heater. If left running, your water heater can overheat or sustain damage because it's no longer receiving fresh water. For electric water heaters, flip the breaker off in your electrical panel. For gas heaters, turn the gas valve to the "pilot" or "off" position.
Step 4: Drain the System
Once the water is shut off, open cold water faucets throughout your home to relieve pressure in the pipes and help drain out remaining water. If the burst pipe was part of the hot water line, open hot water faucets as well. This step can help slow down any residual leaking and reduce the mess.
Step 5: Contact an Emergency Plumbing Repair Service
With the water shut off and the system drained, contact a licensed emergency plumbing repair service as soon as possible. A professional can locate the damaged section of pipe, perform necessary repairs, and inspect for additional issues. If extensive flooding has occurred, you may also need a water mitigation company to assist with cleanup and drying.
Looking For a Reliable Emergency Plumber? Get In Touch with High Speed Plumbing
When you experience a burst pipe, you need to contact a local plumbing company specializing in burst pipe repair. That’s where the team at High Speed Plumbing comes in. We’ve provided emergency plumbing services for years as a locally owned and operated company committed to customer satisfaction. Moreover, our team of licensed plumbers won’t call the job complete until you’re fully satisfied. The next time a pipe bursts in your home, call the team at High Speed Plumbing, and we’ll get your home back to normal.
