How Do I Know if I Have a Burst Pipe?
While the most obvious sign of a burst pipe is a huge water leak, there are symptoms of a burst pipe that homeowners may notice before serious water damage occurs. If you’re experiencing plumbing issues in Portland, Oregon, make sure to call the professional plumbing contractors at PNW Plumbers to take a look and diagnose the issue.
Warning Signs of a Broken Water Pipe
If you notice any of the following signs of a busted water pipe, make sure to call a professional plumber at PNW Plumbers immediately for diagnosis and repair.
Changing Water Pressure
A burst pipe can result in wacky water pressure at your house. If sometimes it feels like hardly any water is coming out of the showerhead but then blasts you in the face, you could have a plumbing problem.
Dirty Water that Smells Bad
Do you have a broken water pipe in Portland? Call PNW Plumbers for emergency plumbing repair and expert service from experienced plumbing contractors!
When water pipes burst in the ground, dirt and other contaminants can get into the water. Over time, an undiscovered burst pipe will rust. The rust particles give the water a brownish tint. Additionally, the rust sets up a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause significant health issues.
If the water smells like rotten eggs, that could be a sign of leaking sewage. Hydrogen sulfide is a naturally occurring gas that forms in sewer lines and it’s extremely important that you call a plumbing professional to inspect your plumbing system. Leaking sewage can cause health problems for you and your family. Don’t delay; call PNW Plumbers today!
Water Noises in the Walls
If you hear the sound of water in your walls, you probably have a broken pipe. This sound is much different from the gurgling sound you may hear if your home normally has fluctuating water pressure.
Mold and Mildew Problems
Excess moisture caused by a burst pipe can result in mold problems throughout the house. If you notice an excessive amount of mold or mildew (or a musty smell), it’s time to call a professional plumber to investigate and diagnose the problem.
Standing Water or Puddles Under Sinks
Another symptom of a burst water pipe is standing water. You may notice puddles underneath sinks. A leak in a pipe can result in puddles near the leaking area. If you notice standing water anywhere in your home, make sure to call a plumber immediately.
Unusually High Water Bills
If your water bill is suddenly out of control without any significant shifts in use, you may have a pipe leaking into the ground or other area of your home. Make sure to call a plumber even if you don’t notice any leaking water so that the issue can be resolved before it results in extensive water damage.
Water Marks or Damp Drywall
Another symptom of a burst water pipe is water marks on the wall. Most pipes run behind the walls and if they’re leaking or burst, they can leave marks on the wall. You may also notice dampness on the walls or squishy parts. Call a plumber to check it out before you find yourself with a bigger problem.
What to Do About a Broken Pipe
There are a couple of things that homeowners can do if they suspect they have a broken pipe in their home.
Shut Off the Water
If you find a burst pipe in your home, the first thing you need to do is to shut off your water. This process can help alleviate any water damage your property may incur. Your main water shut-off valve is probably near your water heater, in a crawl space, or in your basement. Once you have successfully shut off the water, you should drain all of your faucets to get the remaining water out of your pipes. This process reduces the amount of pressure in the pipe system and can help prevent any further freezing of the pipes (if that was the cause of the burst pipe to begin with). Once all of the water has stopped running from the taps, any leaks should stop and further damage may be prevented for the time being.
Shut Off the Power
Depending on the size of the leak, you may need to shut off your electricity. If you suspect that water has come into contact or could come into contact with any wires or the fuse box, call a professional right away and stay away from any water or exposed wires.
Call a Professional
Call a professional plumber at PNW Plumbers if you suspect a broken pipe in Portland. Our experienced plumbers can help you avoid serious damage. Our services include leak detection, repair of water fixtures, supply pipe repair, and sewer system repair (among many others). With decades of combined experience in the plumbing industry, the plumbing contractors at PNW Plumbers can handle all of your emergency plumbing needs in Portland, Oregon. Call today to get started!