Introduction

Dealing with a burst water pipe can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare, but recognising and addressing the issue promptly can save you from extensive damage and costly repairs.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to fix a burst pipe quickly and efficiently, while also providing tips to prevent future incidents.

Identifying the burst pipe

First things first, you need to identify the location of the burst pipe. Here are some signs to look for:

  • Unexpected puddles of water around your home
  • Reduced water pressure
  • Damp spots on walls, floors, or ceilings
  • Unusual noises in your plumbing system

It is also important to identify the location of the broken pipe to minimise damage.

Once you’ve noticed these signs, inspect the suspected areas to pinpoint the exact location of the burst.

Shutting off the water supply

To prevent further damage, it’s crucial to shut off the water supply immediately. Follow these steps:

  1. Locate the water shut off valve, usually found near the water metre or where the main water line enters your home.
  2. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply entirely.
  3. Open all taps in your home to drain the remaining water from the pipes.

Draining the pipes

Draining the pipes will reduce pressure and minimise water damage. Stopping or draining the water flow is crucial to prevent further damage from leaks. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Open the lowest outlet in your home, such as an outside tap or basement sink, to allow the water to drain out.
  2. Turn on all other taps, including the cold and hot water taps, to speed up the drainage process.
  3. Flush all toilets to ensure they are empty.

Temporary fixes for burst pipes

Until a professional plumber arrives, here are some temporary solutions to control the situation:

  • Hose clamp or rubber patches can be used to cover the burst area.
  • Epoxy putty can be applied to seal minor leaks.
  • Duct tape or hose clamps can offer a short-term fix by wrapping them tightly around the burst section.

Knowing how to fix a burst water pipe temporarily until professional help arrives is crucial for minimising damage and ensuring safety.

Repairing the burst water pipe

If you’re confident in your DIY skills, you can attempt to repair the pipe yourself. Using a pipe slice to cut out damaged sections of copper pipe is essential for effective repairs. Additionally, preparing the cut ends of the copper pipe properly is crucial to avoid damaging fittings. Here are the steps:

Materials needed: pipe cutter

  • Pipe cutter or hacksaw
  • Replacement pipe or pipe repair kit
  • Pipe connectors (couplings)
  • Emery cloth or sandpaper
  • Pipe wrench
  • Towel or cloth
  • Bucket

Instructions:

Before you begin: Loosen nearby pipe hangers to ensure proper alignment and fit of the repair sleeve over the pipe ends.

  1. Cut out the damaged section of the pipe using a pipe cutter or hacksaw.
  2. Clean the pipe ends with an emery cloth or sandpaper to ensure a smooth surface for the new connectors.
  3. Measure and cut the replacement pipe to match the length of the removed section.
  4. Attach the pipe connectors (couplings) to both ends of the existing pipe.
  5. Insert the replacement pipe into the connectors and tighten the connections using a pipe wrench.
  6. Turn the water supply back on slowly and check for any leaks.
  7. Open all taps to ensure water flows smoothly through the repaired section.

Preventative measures: pipe insulation

To prevent future burst pipes, consider the following tips:

  • Insulate your pipes: Use pipe insulation or foam wraps to protect pipes from freezing temperatures. Warm air helps keep pipes dry and safe from freezing and bursting.
  • Keep the heating on: During cold weather, maintain a consistent indoor temperature to prevent pipes from freezing. The change in temperature on a frozen pipe can cause them to expand and this can often be what makes pipes burst.
  • Seal gaps and cracks: Ensure that all gaps and cracks in your home’s exterior walls are sealed to keep cold air out.
  • Regular maintenance: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance with a professional plumber to identify potential issues early and avoid burst water pipes.
  • Keep cabinet doors open: Allow warm air to circulate around exposed pipes, especially those located under sinks, to prevent them from freezing and bursting.

Conclusion

A burst pipe requires immediate action to minimise damage and costs. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively address the issue and prevent future incidents. Acting quickly and safely is key to protecting your home.

Professional pipe repair from Plumbernow - get a free quote today

If you’re unsure about any step or prefer a professional solution, get in touch with Plumbernow. If you are facing a water pipe burst, professional help is recommended. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing affordable, high-quality plumbing services with a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Contact us today for a free quote and let us help you fix your burst pipe!