What To Do When a Pipe Bursts at Your Home

A burst pipe is one of the most stressful plumbing emergencies a homeowner can face. Water is spraying, damage is happening by the second, and panic sets in fast. Here’s exactly what to do in the first 15 minutes — stay calm and follow these steps.

Step 1 — Shut Off the Water Immediately

Find your main water shut-off valve and turn it off right now. Don’t know where it is? Most homes have it near the water meter, usually at the front of the house near the street, or where the main line enters the home. Learn where this is BEFORE an emergency happens.

Step 2 — Turn Off the Water Heater

Once the main water is off, turn off your water heater too — either at the breaker (electric) or the gas valve (gas). Running a water heater with no water supply can damage the unit.

Step 3 — Open Faucets to Drain Remaining Water

Open cold water faucets throughout the house to drain the remaining water out of your pipes. This relieves pressure and reduces further water damage.

Step 4 — Locate and Contain the Damage

Find the burst pipe if you can. Put down towels, buckets, or move belongings away from standing water. Take photos for your insurance claim before cleaning up anything.

Step 5 — Call a Licensed Plumber

We provide weekend emergency service throughout Burnet and Llano County. Pipe repair requires a licensed plumber — the repair needs to be done correctly, with the right materials, so it doesn’t fail again. Call us at (830) 613-1089 and we’ll get to you as fast as possible.