A burst pipe is one of the most stressful plumbing emergencies a homeowner can face. Water flowing freely inside your walls or flooding your floors can cause thousands of dollars in damage in a matter of minutes. Davis Plumbing and Heating Inc. responds to pipe burst emergencies throughout Riverside County 24/7. Here’s what to do while you wait for us to arrive.

Step 1: Shut Off Your Main Water Supply Immediately

The most important thing you can do is stop the water. Find your main shutoff valve — it’s usually near the water meter (often in front of your home near the street) or where the main line enters your house. Turn it clockwise (righty tighty) until water flow stops. Know where this valve is before an emergency happens.

Step 2: Turn Off Your Water Heater

If your water heater is gas, turn the dial to “PILOT.” If electric, switch off the circuit breaker for the water heater. Running your water heater without a water supply can damage the unit.

Step 3: Open Faucets to Relieve Pressure

Open several cold-water faucets throughout the house to drain remaining water from the pipes. This helps relieve pressure and reduces the amount of water that will continue to flow from the burst.

Step 4: Move Belongings Away from Water

Quickly remove furniture, electronics, important documents, and other valuables from flooded areas. The longer items sit in water, the more damage occurs. Move rugs and lift furniture legs if possible.

Step 5: Document the Damage for Insurance

Take photos and video of the damage before any cleanup begins. This documentation is essential for your homeowner’s insurance claim. Note the time you discovered the burst and what areas are affected.

Step 6: Try to Find the Burst Location

Look for water stains on ceilings, wet walls, or water pooling under sinks or behind appliances. Knowing the general location of the burst helps Davis Plumbing respond faster and more efficiently when we arrive.

Why Pipes Burst in Riverside County

  • Freezing temperatures — Riverside County does experience cold nights in winter, and exposed pipes in garages, attics, and crawl spaces can freeze and burst.
  • Corrosion — Older galvanized or copper pipes develop pinhole leaks that can suddenly fail.
  • High water pressure — Normal home water pressure is 40–80 PSI. Pressure above 80 PSI stresses pipes and can cause sudden failure.
  • Tree root intrusion — Roots can crush or crack underground supply lines.

Emergency Plumbing Service in Riverside County

Davis Plumbing and Heating is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for plumbing emergencies throughout Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee, Sun City, Perris, Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, San Jacinto, and surrounding communities.

Call us immediately at (951) 657-0393. We’ll dispatch a licensed plumber to your location as quickly as possible. You can also contact us online for non-emergency service requests.