What to Do After a Water Main Break
If you've never had a water main break, you might not know how troublesome it can be for homeowners. When a water main breaks, it's like a pipe in the ground suddenly bursts, causing water to spill out. This can create big problems. But no matter why it happens, the result is the same: water flowing where it shouldn't.
This guide will show you what to do if this ever happens to you and explain some of the common reasons why water mains break.
What is a Water Main Break?
A water main is the primary water conduit that distributes water throughout the town. Most water mains and pipes are underground, typically beneath roadways. A water main break happens when one of the underground pipes that carries fresh water to homes and businesses cracks or develops a hole. When they break, water rushes upwards and causes flooding.
Causes of Water Main Breaks
There are various reasons why water main breaks can happen:
- Temperature changes that cause the ground to shift and pipes to move
- Corrosion and age of the pipes leading to cracks and weakness
- Ground settling or construction work that disturbs the pipes
- Freezing weather that freezes and expands the water inside
These issues are often the underlying causes behind many recurring plumbing emergencies in Houston homes, several of which are covered in our blog on common plumbing problems in Houston.
Signs of Water Main Breaks
If a water main has broken in your area, you may notice these before contacting commercial plumbers in Houston:
- Puddles or water flowing above ground where there are no natural water sources
- Low or no water pressure coming from faucets and fixtures
- Discolored, rusty, or cloudy water comes out when you turn on the tap
- The sound of running or hissing water underground
- The soggy, wet ground around your property with no obvious cause
Also Read: Seasonal Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Houston Homeowners
What to Do Immediately After a Water Main Break?
If you’re faced with this situation, consider reaching out to a reputable commercial plumber in Houston.
A Houston commercial plumber specializing in plumbing services can swiftly address the issue with expertise. Here are some key steps to take after a water main break:
1. Contact Your Houston Plumbing Contractor
Report the break to the Houston Plumbing Contractor or the local water department immediately. They’ll send a team to initiate repairs. In the meantime, water usage should be limited to prevent further damage.
2. Pay Attention to Boil Water Orders
Sometimes, water main breaks can contaminate the supply. If a boil water order is issued, follow instructions carefully. Boiling water for at least one minute kills bacteria, making it safe for consumption.
3. Protect Your Property
Inspect your property for leaks or flooding caused by the main break. Check basements, walls, and perimeters. Act quickly to remove standing water and dry affected areas to prevent costly repairs and mold growth.
4. Flush Your Plumbing System
Once the commercial plumber in Houston repairs your main, flush your plumbing system to remove sediment or debris:
- Run all cold water faucets until the water runs clear.
- Flush your hot water tank by running faucets until the water turns cold, then repeat after an hour.
- Run your refrigerator’s water dispenser and replace the filter if necessary.
- Run empty cycles on your dishwashers and washing machine.
- Change the filter in your water filtration system.
5. Check Your Homeowners’ Insurance Policy
Review your policy to see if the water main break damage is covered. Most of the Plumbing Services in Houston, TX, don’t cover groundwater flooding, so consider additional coverage or flood insurance.
6. Install a Water Main Filtration System
After contacting the master plumber Houston TX, to install a water main filtration system to prevent future damage. These water main filtration systems remove sediment, sand, and rust from your plumbing. Also, improving water quality and reducing the risk of pipe damage.
What to Do If a Water Main Break Occurs During Construction?
If a water main breaks during construction on your property, act quickly. Identify the break location, turn off surrounding water sources, and contract a licensed master plumber in Houston, TX, to assess the damage and make repairs. Depending on the severity of the break, you may need to excavate the area, repair or replace the damaged pipe, and restore any affected infrastructure.
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The Final Words
A water main break can quickly turn disastrous, but staying proactive is key. First, report the break to a trusted plumbing service in Houston, TX, immediately so crews can make repairs.
Their commercial plumbers in Houston specialize in swiftly handling main breaks with expertise. In the meantime, water usage should be limited, and all boil advisories should be followed if contamination occurs. Inspect your entire property, removing any standing water to prevent costly mold and water damage.
Once the Houston commercial plumber repaired the main, flush all plumbing lines and replace filters. Also, review your homeowner’s insurance; you may need additional flood coverage. With All-Tex Boiler & Plumbing Services, LLC's help and the correct response, you can confidently tackle a water main break!
Also Read: Top 5 Signs Your Boiler Needs Repair or Replacement
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