Burst and Leaking Pipes

A Burst and Leaking Pipes can likely be caused by:

• High water pressure
• Old pipes
• Corrosion
• Low quality materials
• Extreme cold
• Improper installation

How do you know if your pipes burst?

There are several key indications that you have a water supply pipe that has burst, or another water leak in your plumbing:

You see water pooling or water damage to areas of the wall, ceiling, or floor.

You hear the hissing sound of water running when all fixtures are turned off.

A burst pipe is the last thing anyone wants to tackle. But there are some quick temporary fixes you can do to slow the impact of a burst pipe.

1. Shut off the Water

When water freezes, it expands in volume by about 9 percent. And it expands with tremendous force: The pressure inside pipes may go from 40 pounds per square inch to 40,000 psi! No pipe can hold that much pressure, so it breaks open. The break may occur where the ice forms, but more often, it occurs where water pressure finds a weak spot in the pipe. That may be inches or even feet from the frozen area. You might also need to shut off the electricity as well, depending on where the leaks occurs and how big it is.

2. Open a Faucet

Opening a faucet after you shut off the water main will relieve any remaining pressure in the pipes.

3.    Call 24/7 Plumbers Pretoria

Unless you feel comfortable trying to repair a broken pipe on your own, you’re probably going to need a plumber at some point. You can, however, do several things before calling the plumber that will help reduce the impact of a broken pipe.

4.    Start Getting Rid of the Water

Grab the mop, buckets and a shop vacuum to start to get rid of the water because you certainly don’t want it soaking into everything else in the house. Plus, a quick clean-up will reduce the chances of something getting moldy.

5.    Open Doors

If you have exposed pipes inside closets or pantries, leave doors open. Open vanity or cabinet doors so warm air can reach the pipes under sinks as well.

6.    Place a Piece of Rubber over the Leak

Putting a piece of rubber over the leak should be done in conjunction with placing some kind of clamp over the broken pipe.

7.    Lastly clean the Damage

If there is any water damage, get to it quickly to prevent any kind of mold growth

Visit us on Facebook or Contact us.