Burst pipes can be a costly and a stressful problem. Fortunately there are some preventative steps that can help avoid the damage and costs of a burst pipe.

Insulating accessible pipes is one inexpensive and relatively easy solution. Another is to leave a trickle of water running on extremely cold days, which helps keep the pipes warm and prevents pressure buildup.

Frozen Pipes

A pipe that freezes expands in volume creating pressure and can burst. This can lead to water gushing out of the broken pipe and causing serious damage to walls, flooring and possessions in your home. It is most likely to happen in cold temperatures or during long stretches of freezing weather and pipes located in outside or unheated areas of the house like basements, attics and crawl spaces are at greatest risk.

Opening cupboard doors around sinks can help warm air circulate and prevent freezing, as can raising the temperature of your home during cold stretches. Insulating exposed pipes can also reduce the chance of them bursting.

If you think a pipe has frozen shut off the water at the nearest valve (if possible) and call in a plumber immediately. It is also a good idea to check your home for air leaks as these can lead to frozen pipes. An expert licensed plumber will be able to find and seal any leaks as well as advise you on insulation.

Poor Installation

Burst pipes are a homeowner's worst nightmare, but they can be prevented. Insulating your pipes, keeping them at a consistent temperature, and scheduling preventative maintenance with a plumber in Adelaide can all reduce the risk of burst pipes in your home.

In addition to cold weather, other causes of pipe bursting include low-quality installation of the piping system, poor connections between piping, and foundation movement. Metallic clanging noises from your plumbing system are also a sign of leaks or a burst pipe.

If you notice large puddles or water damage in your home, turn off your water and call a plumber as soon as possible to minimize the damage. It's also a good idea to document the damage for insurance purposes and start cleanup as quickly as possible to avoid mold growth. Taking these precautions will help ensure that your pipes stay safe and intact throughout the winter.

Poorly Insulated Pipes

When pipes are in unheated parts of the house or in open framing areas they're at a much higher risk of freezing and bursting. The simplest solution is to insulate them,

especially for the unheated parts of the home and those exposed to outside walls.

A professional licensed plumber should do this job for you but you can also insulate on your own by opening cupboard doors around sinks. This allows warmer air to circulate and prevents freezing.

Frozen pipes that burst cause a huge mess, expensive water damage and often mold. One burst pipe can discharge four to eight gallons of water per minute. That can flood walls, ceilings, floors and rugs in your home causing considerable structural and personal damage. When a pipe bursts it can also unleash pressure that damages other piping and appliances. Preventing the bursting of pipes is not only an economical and practical decision but it's also a good way to protect your family's health.

Water Heater

A burst pipe can lead to a number of issues including expensive repairs and irreparable water damage. In addition, mold can grow quickly in damp areas. Fortunately, there are some simple steps homeowners can take to minimize water damage and reduce their costs.

First, turn off the main water supply to avoid flooding your home. Then, make sure to call a plumber right away. Keeping an eye on your water bill is another way to monitor your pipes. If the bill seems high for no apparent reason, it could be a sign of a burst pipe. Similarly, strange colors in your water may indicate that a pipe is leaking. A metallic clang is another indication that a pipe has burst. Homeowners can also insulate their homes and open cabinet doors so warm air can reach under-the-cabinet lines. This can help prevent them from freezing in the first place. These tips can keep your pipes safe all year round.