What To Do Immediately When a Pipe Bursts (Step-by-Step)
Emergency Plumbing
A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water into your home in a single hour. The speed of your reaction determines whether you face a minor mop-up job or a major mold remediation project.
Here is exactly what to do the moment you see water spraying.
Step 1: Shut Off the Main Water Supply
Do not waste time trying to wrap the pipe with tape or catch the water in buckets. Go immediately to your main shut-off valve and turn it clockwise until it stops. This stops the flow of water to the entire house.
Pro Tip: Everyone in your family should know where this valve is located *before* an emergency happens.
Step 2: Open Faucets to Drain the System
Once the main valve is off, go to the lowest faucet in your house (usually a basement sink or an outdoor spigot) and open it. Then, open a faucet on the highest floor. This drains the remaining water out of the pipes and relieves the pressure, stopping the leak faster.
Step 3: Turn Off Electricity
If the water is near any electrical outlets, appliances, or your breaker box, do not step in it. Go to your fuse box and shut off the main power if it is safe to do so. Water and electricity are a deadly combination.