It’s just another afternoon in Las Vegas, and you’re relaxing at home when you suddenly see water pooling on your kitchen floor. At first, you figure it’s just a small spill, but then you realize it’s coming from under the sink. Now you’re rushing around, trying to figure out what’s going on. A burst pipe has taken your chill day and turned it upside down.
This is what happens when a pipe bursts out of nowhere. If you’re not ready, it can lead to a lot of headaches and expensive repairs. Knowing what to do ahead of time can make things way easier.
What Causes Pipes to Burst?
Noticed a burst pipe and wondered what caused it? Usually, it’s a long-term issue rather than something sudden. Here are some common reasons for a burst pipe:
- Clogged Pipe: A clog can cause water pressure to build up. If the pressure becomes too high because water can’t get past the clog, the pipe may burst.
- Frozen Pipe: In cold weather, water in pipes can freeze and expand. This puts pressure on the pipe, which can eventually burst. Learning how to unfreeze pipes can help stop this from happening.
- Pipe Movement: Pipes can shift due to repairs, cold weather, or increased water pressure. These movements can lead to a burst pipe.
- Corroded Pipe: Over time, pipes can rust or corrode due to an imbalance in the water’s pH or hardness. This weakens the pipe and may cause it to burst.
- Old Age: No pipes last forever. As pipes age, if they’re copper, cast iron, or PVC, they wear down and become more likely to leak or burst.
Signs of a Burst Pipe in Your Las Vegas Home
Contrary to what most people think, pipes don’t always make loud noises or spray water everywhere when they burst (though it can happen). The signs are often more subtle. Keep an eye out for:
- Higher water bills
- Discolored water
- Unsteady water flow
- Strange sounds from pipes
- Water puddles
- Bad smells from water
- Mold on walls
- Water stains on walls
10 Steps To Take If a Pipe Bursts in your Home
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
The first thing you should do is turn off the water to prevent more damage. In Las Vegas homes, the shutoff valve is usually outside near the water meter, but it could also be in the basement, a crawl space, or near the water heater. It might take some effort to close it if it hasn’t been used in a while.
For large leaks, it’s also a good idea to turn off the electricity, especially if water is near outlets or electrical wiring, as this can be dangerous. If you can’t reach the main shutoff valve, try turning off local shut offs under sinks or near the water heater. If you’re having trouble, call a plumber right away.
2. Call a Plumber
Once you’ve stopped the water flow, call a Las Vegas plumber as soon as possible. Local plumbers usually charge between $45 and $200 per hour, depending on the type of work and your location.
Fixing a burst pipe in Las Vegas can cost around $500 on average, but it can range from $150 for small repairs to as much as $5,000 for major fixes like replacing underground pipes.
3. Drain the Faucets
After turning off the water, open all the faucets to drain the remaining water in the pipes and prevent freezing. Although freezing isn’t common in Las Vegas due to the warmer climate, it’s still a good idea to release pressure in the system.
Flush toilets to relieve pressure, and remember to turn off your water heater. Leave taps open to stop any pressure from building up.
4. Find the Leak
After turning off the water, start looking for signs of the leak around your home. In Las Vegas homes, leaks often appear in kitchens, bathrooms, or basements. Check for bulging ceilings, water spots on walls, or wet areas on the floor.
According to the EPA, household leaks waste nearly 10,000 gallons of water each year in the U.S. If you can spot the leak early, you’ll reduce the damage significantly. If you find it, plug the hole with rags or tape and place a bucket under any drips to avoid further floor damage.
5. Take Photos of the Damage
It’s important to document everything once you’ve found the leak. In Las Vegas, insurance companies typically require proof of the damage for claims. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), water damage is one of the most common reasons for homeowner claims, making up around 29% of all claims.
Taking photos of the burst pipe, the water damage, and affected belongings can make a big difference when trying to get insurance coverage. If the leak is near electrical wires or outlets, wait until it’s safe or have the plumber take the photos for you when they arrive.
6. Turn Up the Heat
Although Las Vegas is known for its heat, winters can still get chilly enough for pipes to freeze, especially at night when temperatures drop. The average low in Las Vegas in the winter can be around 39°F, which can cause pipes to freeze if the home isn’t properly heated.
If you don’t need to shut off the electricity, turn up the thermostat to around 80°F to prevent any risk of freezing. This will also help warm the areas behind walls where pipes are more vulnerable to cold.
7. Clean Up the Water
Water damage can quickly lead to mold growth, especially in humid environments. Even though Las Vegas is dry, water sitting too long can still cause mold to grow within 24-48 hours.
According to FEMA, mold can cause significant health issues and further damage to your home if left untreated. Use mops, towels, or rags to clean up as much water as possible. Be sure to check hidden areas, such as under furniture or rugs, where water may have accumulated. Open windows to allow airflow, as Las Vegas’ dry air can help speed up the drying process.
8. Document the Damage
As you clean up, don’t forget to keep documenting the damage. Take more pictures of all affected areas, including walls, floors, furniture, and any personal belongings that were damaged by the water.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, having detailed documentation can increase your chances of a successful claim. Be sure to keep any damaged items, as your insurance adjuster may need to see them as proof. The more evidence you provide, the higher the likelihood that your Las Vegas home insurance will cover the repair costs.
9. Use Dehumidifiers
Even after cleaning up visible water, moisture can remain in hard-to-reach places, encouraging mold growth. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), it’s important to dry out areas completely within 24-48 hours to avoid mold problems.
Set up dehumidifiers and fans in the affected areas to help dry out the space. If you had to open a wall to fix the leak, make sure to aim a fan or dehumidifier into the cavity to dry it thoroughly. Las Vegas’s dry air will help, but extra drying power is essential for areas like inside walls, where moisture can easily hide and cause problems later.
10. Replace the Pipe
If you’re experienced with plumbing, you might be able to replace the damaged pipe yourself. Use a pipe cutter to remove the broken section, install a repair sleeve, and solder it in place. Make sure the water supply is off and the pipe is drained before starting.
If you’re not confident, it’s best to call a professional plumber in Las Vegas to handle the repair and avoid making the situation worse.
Stay Calm, Act Fast
When a pipe bursts, it’s important to move quickly. As Benjamin Franklin wisely said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Ignoring the problem or waiting too long could lead to expensive repairs and long-term issues like mold, which could have been prevented with quick action.
Acting fast when a pipe bursts can protect both your home and your budget. A burst pipe may seem overwhelming, but with the right actions, you can get things under control. Don’t let panic take over—be prepared.
Vegas Plumbing Pros has helped countless homeowners by offering expert advice on what to do when a pipe bursts in your home. With our expert advice, you can act quickly to minimize water damage and restore your home. Contact us now for immediate assistance!
FAQs
How to know if your pipes burst?
You can tell if your pipes have burst by signs like low water pressure, puddles, water stains, strange noises, higher bills, or foul smells. If you notice these, check for a leak and turn off your water to prevent further damage.
How to fix a burst pipe?
First, turn off the main water supply and remove the damaged pipe with a cutter. Replace it with a new pipe or use a repair sleeve, ensuring it’s secure. If unsure, call a plumber to avoid further damage.
What to do if a pipe bursts in your apartment?
Turn off the water supply, usually under the sink or near the water heater, and contact your landlord immediately. While waiting, clean up any standing water and move belongings away from wet areas. Take photos of the damage for records or insurance claims.
How to fix a busted water pipe outside?
Turn off the main water supply, cut out the damaged pipe section, and replace it with a new pipe or repair clamp. Ensure it’s secure, and if unsure, call a plumber to avoid further issues.
