If a water pipe bursts, the first step is to stop more water coming in by turning off your stopcock, if it is safe and you know where it is. After that, drain the pipes, keep away from any electrics that may be wet and call a plumber. Acting calmly in the first few minutes can make a big difference to how much damage is done.
Turn Off the Water at the Stopcock
The stopcock, also called the inside stop valve, controls the cold water coming into your home. It is often under the kitchen sink, but it can also be in a downstairs toilet, a utility room, a cupboard or under the stairs. Turn it clockwise until it stops.
If the stopcock is stiff, do not force it with heavy tools, as this can damage the valve. If you cannot find it or it will not turn, call a plumber straight away and explain the problem. It is a good idea to find your stopcock now, before anything goes wrong.
Drain the Pipes and Switch Off Water Heating
Once the water is off, open your cold taps to drain the pipes. This lets the water already in the system run away through the sinks rather than out of the burst. Flushing toilets once can also help to empty the cisterns.
If you have a boiler or immersion heater, switch it off if you can reach the switch safely and it is dry. When the hot water has stopped heating, you can open the hot taps too. The WaterSafe advice on what to do if a pipe bursts covers these same basic steps.
Keep Clear of Electrics and Contain the Water
Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. If water is coming through a ceiling near a light fitting, or is close to sockets or the consumer unit, keep well clear. Only turn off the electricity at the consumer unit if it is completely dry and safe to reach. If you are unsure, stay away from that area and get an electrician to check it.
Where it is safe, move furniture, rugs and valuables out of the way. Put buckets or bowls under drips and use old towels to soak up water on the floor. If a ceiling is bulging with water, keep out of the room below, as it may come down.
Why a Plumber Should Make the Repair
A burst pipe is part of a pressurised system, so it is not a job for tape and guesswork. A temporary wrap may slow a drip, but it will not make the pipe safe once the water is turned back on. A plumber can find the damaged section, cut it out and fit a proper joint.
If you need help with a burst pipe in Swindon, a plumber can also check nearby pipework for other weak spots. Taking photos of the damage before you clear up may also help if you need to speak to your insurer later.
If a pipe has burst in your Swindon home, call Emergency Plumber Swindon on 01793 569521. We can talk you through the next steps and arrange for a plumber to come and repair it.