A burst pipe is every homeowner’s nightmare. One moment everything’s fine—then suddenly, water is pouring from your ceiling, walls, or floors, and panic sets in. Whether caused by freezing temperatures, corrosion, or high water pressure, burst pipes can cause extensive water damage in a matter of minutes. The good news? With a clear head and a few key steps, you can minimize the damage before help arrives.
At Hedrick & Young, we know how stressful plumbing emergencies can be. Our goal is to empower homeowners with practical knowledge so they can respond quickly and confidently. If you’re in the Inland Empire or Southern California and searching for reliable riverside plumbing experts, you’re in good hands. But before we get there, here’s what you should do the moment a pipe bursts in your home.
Step 1: Shut Off the Main Water Supply
The most critical action you can take when dealing with a burst pipe is shutting off your home’s main water valve. This stops the flow of water and prevents further flooding. Most homes have the shut-off valve located either:
- Where the water line enters the house
- In a basement or utility closet
- Outside near the foundation, often in a covered box
Turn the valve clockwise to close it. If it’s stuck or corroded, use a wrench with caution—but don’t force it too hard, as you don’t want to cause additional damage to the valve itself.
Knowing where your water shut-off valve is before a plumbing emergency occurs can save you thousands of dollars in water damage. Make it a point to locate it today if you haven’t already.
Step 2: Turn Off Electricity (If Needed)
If water from the burst pipe is leaking near electrical outlets, appliances, or the breaker panel, it’s essential to shut off the electricity in the affected area. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix, and it’s better to be cautious.
Use your circuit breaker to switch off the power to the part of the house that’s affected. If the breaker box is near water, do not attempt to turn it off—wait for emergency services or your plumber to assist safely.
At Hedrick & Young, we’ve handled many complex riverside plumbing emergencies where electrical safety was just as important as stopping the leak. Always prioritize safety first.
Step 3: Drain Remaining Water from the Pipes
After shutting off the main water supply, open all your cold water faucets to drain the remaining water in the pipes. This step will help relieve pressure and reduce any additional leaking.
Don’t forget to flush toilets to empty water from the tanks. If the burst pipe is in a hot water line, also turn off your water heater and open the hot water taps to drain that side of the system.
This process helps prevent further plumbing damage and prepares your home for repairs by clearing out residual water.
Step 4: Locate the Pipe and Assess the Damage
Try to identify where the burst pipe occurred. Is it behind a wall, under the sink, or in a crawl space? Locating the damage can help you give your plumber critical information when you call.
Even if you can’t see the exact break, take note of signs like:
- Bulging ceilings or walls
- Wet drywall or insulation
- Pools of water under sinks or in basements
If the burst occurred in a visible pipe (e.g., under a sink), you can wrap it with a towel or tape as a temporary fix while waiting for professional plumbing service.
Step 5: Clean Up Water to Prevent Damage
Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water. The longer water sits, the more damage it can do to flooring, walls, and furniture. Mold can begin to form within 24-48 hours in damp areas, so prompt cleanup is key.
Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry out affected areas. If carpeting is soaked, try to lift it from the padding and get air flowing underneath.
While Hedrick & Young responds quickly to riverside plumbing calls, your early cleanup efforts can make a huge difference in minimizing long-term damage.
Step 6: Document the Damage
Before throwing away anything or making repairs, take photos and videos of the affected area. This documentation can be helpful if you need to file a homeowner’s insurance claim.
Include:
- Pictures of the burst pipe
- Water-damaged furniture, flooring, or walls
- Any receipts for cleanup supplies or emergency repairs
Many insurance companies cover water damage from sudden pipe bursts, especially if routine maintenance can be proven.
Step 7: Call a Licensed Plumbing Professional
Once the initial damage is contained and you’ve secured the area, it’s time to call a trusted plumber to repair the issue. Look for a licensed, experienced, and locally based company that specializes in emergency response.
With over 15 years of service, Hedrick & Young Plumbing is a trusted name in riverside plumbing. Our team of skilled professionals is equipped to handle everything from minor leaks to catastrophic pipe bursts. We respond quickly and work thoroughly to restore your home’s plumbing system to top condition.
Prevent Future Pipe Bursts
While some burst pipe incidents are unavoidable, many can be prevented with routine maintenance and vigilance. Here are some tips:
- Insulate pipes in cold areas like basements, garages, and exterior walls
- Keep a consistent thermostat temperature during freezing weather
- Repair minor leaks or rust spots before they become major problems
- Schedule annual plumbing inspections with a professional
Being proactive can save you time, money, and a massive headache down the line.
Conclusion: Stay Calm, Stay Prepared
A burst pipe is never a welcome surprise, but knowing how to act quickly can help you minimize damage and stress. Shut off the water, stay safe, clean up what you can, and call in a professional for reliable repairs.
With a team of dedicated plumbing professionals, supported by over 15 years of experience, there isn’t any plumbing job that Hedrick and Young can’t service. From emergency repairs to preventive maintenance, we’re your trusted partner in all things plumbing.
Need help fast? Visit Hedrick & Young Plumbing to request service or learn more about how we can support your home or business.
