3 Steps To Take When You Have a Broken Pipe

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

If you suspect you have a broken pipe in your Colorado Springs, CO, home, contact a professional.

Problems with the plumbing system are one of the most common causes of water damage for property owners. If you have discovered or suspect you have a leaking or broken pipe, it is important to take prompt action to prevent future damage.

1. Look For Signs of a Broken Pipe

Sometimes it is obvious when you have broken pipes, other times you may only suspect it. If you are noticing unexplained puddles of water, water pressure problems, discolored water, wall stains, increases in your water bill, water sounds in your walls, unusual pipe noises, or water smells, you may have a burst or leaking pipe. Contact a plumber in Colorado Springs, CO, to make repairs as soon as possible.

2. Shut Off the Water

When you discover a broken or leaking pipe, your priority is to prevent additional water damage by shutting off the water. You can do this by closing the main water valve to the affected building. Open your faucets and flush your toilets to drain the remaining water in the pipes. Turn your boiler or water heater off during this process.

3. Remove the Water

Once you have stopped water from leaking into your building, remove standing water with a mop and bucket or wet/dry vacuum. If there is a large amount of water, you may need to contact a water remediation company to do water cleanup. Open doors and windows and run fans and dehumidifiers to speed drying. Excess moisture that remains in your building for longer than 24 to 48 hours can lead to mold and mildew growth. If your plumbing has been leaking for an extended period, you may already have some mold that needs to be removed.

Water damage from burst or leaking pipes is a common problem. However, you can reduce your chances of sustaining large amounts of damage by taking quick action to repair your plumbing and dry out your building.