Knowing how to handle a burst pipe emergency is crucial. If you find a burst pipe, immediately turn off your main water supply and open any faucets to drain the remaining water. This quick action can help limit damage to your home.
It's smart to learn the signs of frozen pipes before they burst, being watchful for things like reduced water flow, strange noises from pipes, or frost on exposed pipes. Identifying issues and preventing frozen pipes can save you a lot of trouble during the colder months.
Your pipes risk freezing and bursting when temperatures drop, so it's advantageous to know where and why they’re vulnerable to prevent costly damage.
Pipes in unheated spaces are at the highest risk of freezing, which is why you need to assess your attic, basement, and crawl spaces. Look for pipes along exterior walls or in poorly insulated areas, especially pipes in garages or outdoor sheds.
Outdoor hose bibs need special attention too as these faucets connect directly to your home's plumbing. Remove hoses before winter and drain the lines, using insulated covers to protect outdoor faucets from freezing.
Different pipe materials react to the cold in various ways and metal pipes are more likely to freeze than plastic ones. You should use foam pipe insulation sleeves for exposed pipes and heat tape for extra protection in colder parts of your home. Identify and seal any cracks or openings where cold air might enter your home as even small gaps can let in enough cold air to freeze nearby pipes.
Set your thermostat no lower than 55°F (13°C), even if you’re not home or on vacation as this helps maintain a safe temperature for your pipes. Additionally, let faucets drip slightly on the coldest nights as moving water is less likely to freeze than standing water.
You could also consider using smart temperature sensors in high-risk areas which alert you to dangerous temperature drops before pipes freeze.
Quick action is key when dealing with a burst pipe to reduce water damage and protect your property. Remember to take photos of the damage to help with insurance claims and don't throw away damaged items until your insurance company says it's okay.
It’s important to know where your main water shut-off valve is. It's usually in the basement, near the water meter, or outside by the street. If you can't find it, call a plumber to assist. For apartment dwellers, the valve might be in a utility closet and you may need to contact your building manager. Once located, turn it clockwise to stop the water flow
After shutting off the main valve, drain the pipes by opening all faucets in your home, including both hot and cold taps and outdoor faucets. This lets the remaining water flow out and eases pressure on your pipes. Then, flush all toilets once or twice to fully clear the system.
Move items away from wet areas, such as rugs, furniture, and valuables, storing them in dry rooms or on raised surfaces. Use towels or mops to soak up standing water, working from the outside of wet areas toward the center. This helps stop water from spreading further. Set up fans to dry wet spots and open windows if it's not too cold outside as good airflow helps prevent mold growth.
Frozen pipes can burst if not thawed properly and quick action and careful methods are key to avoiding costly damage. Follow these steps to thaw pipes safely and know when expert help is needed.
Start by opening the faucet connected to the frozen pipe to allow the water to flow as the ice melts. Use a hair dryer to warm the pipe, moving it back and forth, and don't focus on one spot. An electric heating pad or hot towel wrapped around the pipe also works well.
Never use open flames or boiling water to thaw pipes as it can damage your plumbing or cause injuries.
If you can't find the frozen section or can't reach it, it's time to call a plumber as they have special tools to locate and thaw hidden frozen pipes. You should also call a professional if you notice bulging or cracked pipes as these signs mean the pipe may have already burst.
Licensed plumbers can also help if you're unomfortable doing the work yourself, ensuring the job is done safely and correctly.
Protecting your home from burst pipes requires ongoing effort and smart upgrades, and taking proactive steps can avoid future headaches and costly repairs.
Replace old pipes with newer, more durable materials like PEX or copper. These materials resist freezing and bursting better than older options. You could also install a whole-house water pressure regulator to prevent stress on your pipes.
Add extra insulation around pipes in cold areas like basements, attics, and exterior walls, and use heat cables on pipes prone to freezing. This electric tape warms pipes when temperatures drop.
Install shut-off valves for outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems and drain these lines before winter to prevent freezing. Water leak detection systems are also a great safeguarding tool, as these devices can shut off your main water supply if they sense a leak, limiting damage.
Check your plumbing system yearly for signs of wear or damage, looking for small leaks, corrosion, or loose fittings. Regularly clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams that can damage your roof and walls. Remember to test your main water shut-off valve annually too, to ensure it works properly.
Insulate your water heater and exposed pipes to improve efficiency and prevent freezing, and keep your thermostat at 55°F, even when you're away to prevent frozen pipes.
It is highly recommended to have a plumber inspect your home every few years as they can spot potential issues you might miss. Speak to us today to arrange your next inspection.
