Dealing with Burst Pipes: Immediate Steps to Take

A burst pipe is never good news. The water from a burst pipe can cause significant structural damage and flooding to your home by getting into the walls, ceilings, and other parts of the building. Unfortunately, the aftermath of a burst pipe can also lead to mold issues and musty smells if the situation is not dealt with quickly. There is also the real possibility that the pipe water could come into contact with electricity, leading to a major safety hazard for you and your loved ones. If you are in Monterey Park, CA, or the surrounding area and are dealing with a burst pipe, have one of our team members at Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric out to come help with it immediately.

Signs of a Burst Pipe

Some signs of a burst pipe seem fairly obvious while others may not. To be thorough, let’s review all the main signs that you may have a burst pipe in your home.

Puddling

If you notice a large puddle develop when your water is running, this is the clearest indicator that you likely have a burst pipe. Typically, you will only see a small drip if you have a water leak. With a burst, however, water will pool under pipes and potentially move through walls.

Wall Stains

Large stains on your wall usually indicate a problem with your pipes. If you have a burst pipe, the stain generally points to the point where the burst occurred.

Pipe Noise

When a pipe bursts, you might hear metallic clangs or other noises. Pipes may have become disconnected when the damage occurred and bang against other surfaces or pipes when water continues to move through them.

Decreased Water Pressure

It can be challenging to detect if there is a problem with your plumbing in a hidden area of your home, such as a crawl space or under your house. A sudden decrease in water pressure could alert you to a burst pipe in these areas.

Water Discoloration

If you notice that your water is discolored, this can indicate a burst pipe. However, several other possible reasons for your water to become discolored exist, so it is best to contact a professional to inspect your plumbing and determine the cause.

What to Do When You Suspect a Burst Pipe

If you suspect a burst pipe, call one of our trained plumbers at Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric immediately. While you wait for one of our professionals to arrive, there are some things you can do to minimize any potential damage.

Turn Off the Water

While you wait for a plumber, the first thing you should do is locate your main water valve and shut it off. The main water valve is usually found where the main water line enters your home, often in the basement, garage, or utility room. Though less common, the valve is sometimes installed outside near the meter box.

To shut off a valve with a wheel handle, turn it clockwise until it stops. If your valve has a lever handle, turn the lever 90 degrees so that it is perpendicular to the pipe. This will stop ongoing flooding and reduce water damage to your home, making it easier for the plumber to access the affected area. Additionally, consider shutting off the electricity to ensure safety until a professional can address the situation.

Open Your Faucets

Go through your home and open up your faucets. This will relieve any remaining water pressure. You should also flush your toilets several times.

Clean Up the Water

Ahead of your plumber’s arrival, you can clean up any pooled water to minimize damage to your floors. A shop vac is particularly effective for this task. Use it to remove as much water as possible from the affected area. Use towels and a mop if you don’t have a shop vac. Additionally, you can set up fans to help dry out the area and prevent mold growth.

Common Reasons Pipes Burst

Burst pipes can cause significant damage and inconvenience for homeowners. Understanding the common causes can help you take preventative measures.

Freezing Temperatures

This is obviously not a common reason for burst pipes in the Los Angeles area, but it’s worth noting should you encounter it elsewhere, such if you have a vacation home in a colder climate. When temperatures fall below freezing, the water in pipes freezes as well. Since water expands when it freezes, it stresses the pipe. Then, when a rapid increase in temperature occurs from you turning on the hot water, your pipe shatters along with the ice. Many people with vacation homes avoid this plumbing issue by draining the water from the plumbing system if they will not be using their second home for an extended time period.

High Water Pressure

Excessive water pressure can put a significant strain on your pipes, causing them to burst. This can happen due to issues like a malfunctioning pressure regulator or sudden surges in the municipal water supply. When water pressure builds up with no release, it can lead to leaks and eventually cause the pipe to rupture. Having your plumber check your pressure regulator annually is a good idea.

Hard Water Buildup

Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can accumulate inside pipes over time. This buildup narrows the pipe’s diameter, increasing water pressure in your plumbing. As the pressure builds up, it can lead to leaks and, eventually, a burst pipe. Regular maintenance and the use of water softeners can help prevent this issue.

Pipe Movement

Pipes can shift due to repairs in other areas of your plumbing system or from vibrations caused by excessive water pressure. This movement can weaken the connections and joints, eventually leading to a burst pipe.

Corrosion

Corrosion is one of the most prevalent reasons for burst pipes. Over time, pipes can corrode due to rust or a pH imbalance in the water. Corrosion weakens the pipe walls, making them more susceptible to breaking. Homes that use well water are more prone to this issue, as well water often has a higher iron content, leading to faster corrosion. If you notice discoloration in your water, it could be due to pipes in your plumbing system deteriorating. Since less than clear water from your taps may mean it is unsafe to drink and could indicate a major plumbing issue, the best course of action is to contact a professional.

Contact the Pros

At Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, we have been serving the residents of Monterey Park and the surrounding areas for years. We have worked hard to become the premier home services provider in the area. We install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems. In addition, we are expert plumbers who are used to dealing with burst pipes while also providing preventative services such as drain cleaning, repiping, and leak detection. We can also help with your electrical system needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced team members.