Quick Fixes for Plumbing Emergencies

The supply pipes in most homes are under constant pressure, giving a breach or hole of any size the potential to spray a significant amount of water.

Accessing fresh drinking water through a simple faucet turn is often taken for granted. However, when faced with plumbing emergencies like uncontrollable water flow, this convenience can quickly turn into a daunting challenge. When a pipe leak occurs, it is best to immediately call an emergency plumber who has the equipment and experience to deal with the problem. However, there are several temporary measures that can help manage the situation until professional help arrives.

Burst supply pipe

The supply pipes in most homes are under constant pressure, giving a breach or hole of any size the potential to spray a significant amount of water. The first and most crucial step in such an event is to shut off the water supply to the damaged pipe. If the pipe has a dedicated supply valve, turning it clockwise will usually close it. However, in situations where there isn't a dedicated valve or its location is unknown, the best course of action is to shut off the main water valve. This valve is typically located at the water meter. If the water meter is outside the house, the shutoff valve will be located on the inside wall of the house closest to the meter.

Temporary fixes for burst supply pipes

When the main water valve is shut off, the house loses access to water, affecting activities like drinking, bathing, and flushing toilets. If it's likely to be a while before an emergency plumber can attend to the problem, there are a few DIY methods to temporarily stop the leak, enabling the main valve to be turned back on.

Pipe repair wrap

This is a versatile, stretchable material designed to create a strong, temporary seal around a leaking pipe. Before applying the wrap, the area around the leak needs to be cleaned and dried. Begin by placing one end of the wrap against the pipe, then wrap it around the pipe multiple times, stretching the material as much as possible. The more the material is stretched, the better the seal it creates. Once the wrapping is complete, press the end of the wrap firmly against the layers to ensure it stays in place. It will only adhere to itself, not to the pipe.

Pipe repair clamp

This clamp consists of two semicircular pieces that form a ring around the pipe, holding a rubber gasket in place to seal the leak. It's secured with bolts and nuts. Before installation, clean and dry the area around the leak. After placing the rubber gasket over the leak, position the halves of the clamp around the gasket and tighten. It's important to tighten the clamp securely but carefully. Galvanized steel pipes are especially prone to further damage if excessive force is used in this step, since it may be rusted from the inside out.

Once either of these methods is applied, test the repair by turning on the main valve while someone observes the leak point. A successful temporary fix might still allow a slight leak, but will enable controlled use of water for essential purposes. In such cases, placing a bucket under the leak can catch drips while the water is turned on and off as needed until the plumber arrives.

Despite these temporary fixes, it's important to remember that they are just that – temporary. A professional plumber should be contacted as soon as possible to provide a more permanent solution. They have the tools, experience, and expertise to diagnose and fix plumbing issues effectively.

Evenflow Home and Commercial Services of San Antonio offers impeccable house cleaning services, professional plumbing, electrician services, HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair. Our technicians offer 24-hour emergency electrical and HVAC service for San Antonio, Schertz, Converse, Floresville, Elmendorf, and more. Call us at (210)941-3503.