If your home relies on a well pump system for its water supply, nothing is more inconvenient than ruptured plumbing. Besides restricting your access to clean and safe water, an incident can also cause costly water damage to the property. Here are a few helpful steps to keep in mind if you've discovered a pipe has burst in your house.

What Should You Do When a Pipe Bursts?

1. Turn Off the Main Water Valve

The main water valve is typically located on an outside wall, in the basement or kitchen, or near a water heater. Turning off the valve will shut down water access in the entire home, helping to minimize further damage. Keep it off until you can arrange for a well pump specialist to identify what caused the burst pipe and make the necessary repairs. 

2. Drain All Faucets

Even though your main valve is off at this point, there may still be water in the pipes. Turn on all faucets in the bathrooms and kitchen to drain out this residual water, which will help reduce the air pressure in the pipes and stop further leaks. You should also eliminate extra water in the toilets by flushing them several times.

3. Mop Up Water

The faster you can clean up the water, the less likely you will be to experience mold issues that can damage your furniture and other personal items. Shop vacuums are also effective for quickly sucking up excess water. Press towels into corners, crevices, and other tight spots where moisture can seep in and remain undetected. Depending on the extent of the water flow, you may have to pull up the carpet to ensure everything dries out fully.  

4. Let In Fresh Air

While waiting for the water well pump professionals to arrive, open the doors and windows to draw in fresh air. This will help dry pipes and soaked areas faster. If your home experiences a burst pipe in the winter, turn up the heat to expedite the drying process. The warm air will also help prevent bursts caused by freezing from growing worse, but this warming must be done slowly, as sharp temperature changes may cause additional cracks.

If your home experiences a plumbing mishap, contact the specialists at Hewitt Messenger Well Drilling & Pump Service in Nixa. Since 1978, this water well pump and drilling company has served residents of Southwest Missouri and the surrounding counties. Their licensed and insured professionals provide quality well system repairs and maintenance, sump pump services, UV disinfection, and more. Call (417) 725-8816 for prompt service day or night, or visit the website to learn more.