Burst Pipe: Exactly What to Do Before the Plumber Arrives

A burst pipe can put out 10+ gallons a minute. What you do in the next few minutes matters more than anything the plumber will do later.

Step 1: Shut off the main

Find it now, before you need it: usually at the meter box near the street, or where the line enters the house (often by the water heater or garage). Turn clockwise until it stops.

Step 2: Open the lowest faucet

Drain pressure from the system so the spraying stops sooner. Open an outside spigot or a ground-floor tub.

Step 3: Cut power to affected areas

Water and electricity don't mix. Flip breakers for any room with wet outlets or fixtures.

Step 4: Turn off the water heater

Gas: set to "pilot" or off. Electric: flip its breaker. An empty tank with power on will burn out its elements.

Step 5: Contain and document

Buckets, towels, move belongings. Photograph everything for insurance before cleanup.

Step 6: Call an emergency plumber

(888) 480-9811 is answered 24/7. Our burst pipe repair trucks carry copper, PEX and CPVC fittings so the repair happens on the first visit. If the pipe burst from freezing, corrosion or age, we'll tell you whether it's a one-off or a sign you need to consider repiping.

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