What to Do If You Have a Burst Pipe

burst water pipe what to do

A burst pipe is one of the most stressful plumbing emergencies any homeowner can face. Water can pour into your home quickly, damaging floors, walls, furniture, and even your electrical system. The good news? Acting fast can make the difference between a small cleanup and a major disaster. Here’s exactly what to do if you find yourself dealing with a burst pipe.

1. Shut Off Your Water Supply Immediately

The very first step is to stop the flow of water. Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve and turn it clockwise until the water stops. In most homes, this valve is found:

  • Down in the basement or crawlspace
  • Near the water meter outside
  • On an exterior wall close to where the water line enters the house

If you don’t know where your shut-off valve is, now is the perfect time to find it — before an emergency happens.

2. Cut the Power if Water Is Near Electrical Outlets

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If the burst pipe is flooding near electrical outlets or appliances, shut off power at the breaker box to that area of the home. Never step into standing water near live wires.

3. Drain Remaining Water From the Pipes

After shutting off the water, open all the faucets in your home — hot and cold — to drain any remaining water from the pipes. Flush toilets as well. This relieves pressure in the plumbing system and reduces the amount of water leaking from the burst pipe.

4. Contain the Leak

If possible, place a bucket under the burst area to catch dripping water. Towels, rags, or even duct tape can serve as temporary solutions until a professional plumber arrives. While this won’t fix the problem, it will help limit water damage.

5. Call an Emergency Plumber

A burst pipe is not a DIY repair. Once you’ve contained the situation as much as possible, call a licensed plumber right away. Professional plumbers can locate the break, repair or replace the damaged section, and inspect your system for other weak spots that could cause future problems.

📞 Call Davis Plumbing now at (951) 657-0393 for 24/7 emergency plumbing service.

6. Start the Cleanup Process

Use mops, towels, or a wet/dry vacuum to clean up standing water. The faster you dry the area, the less likely you are to deal with mold or structural damage. If the flooding was extensive, you may also need professional water damage restoration.

How to Prevent Burst Pipes in the Future

  • Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawlspaces, or attics

  • Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F during cold weather

  • Disconnect outdoor hoses before winter

  • Schedule regular plumbing inspections to catch weak spots early

Final Thoughts

A burst pipe can be overwhelming, but knowing the right steps to take can save you time, money, and stress. Shut off the water, stay safe, and call in a professional as quickly as possible.

🚨 Need help with a burst pipe right now? Call Davis Plumbing at (951) 657-0393. Our expert plumbers are available 24/7 and will arrive fast to stop the leak and protect your home.