How to Handle Burst Pipes in Perth Metro Region
Let’s face it, nothing ruins your day faster than a burst pipe at home. One minute you could be boiling the kettle, and paddling across the kitchen the next. If you’re in Perth metro region, burst pipes can strike unexpectedly. They’re not just messy, they’re expensive too.
Luckily, The Plumbing and Gas Heroes are here to help. We’ve created this down-to-earth guide to help you handle a burst pipe with confidence and get things back on track quickly.
Why Do Burst Pipes Happen?
Living in Perth and Fremantle, we’re not immune to pipe dramas. In fact, the hard water in the region can cause build-up in your plumbing system over time. That calcium-rich water may be great for your bones, but not so much for your pipes!
Here are a few common causes of burst pipes:
- High water pressure – Too much pressure can wear pipes out quickly.
- Aging pipes – Older homes often have copper pipes that can corrode or develop pinhole leaks.
- Water hammer – That banging sound when you turn off a tap? It’s not just annoying—it can stress your pipes.
- Poor installation or soil conditions – Pipes buried underground can be affected by movement or poor materials.
What To Do When a Pipe Bursts
Here’s what to do straight away if you suspect or discover a burst pipe:
1. Stay Safe – Switch Off the Power: If water is anywhere near electrical sockets or appliances, turn off the power at the main switch. Safety always comes first.
2. Turn Off the Water Supply: Find your mains water valve (usually in the front garden or near the water meter) and turn it off. This will stop more water from flooding your home.
3. Drain the System: Turn on your cold water taps, flush the toilet, then turn off the hot water system and run the hot taps. This helps relieve pressure in the pipes and drains any leftover water.
4. Contain the Leak: Got a bucket? Place it under the leak to catch the water. It’s a temporary fix, but it’ll stop things from getting worse while you wait for help.
5. Call Your Local Emergency Plumber: This is where The Plumbing and Gas Heroes come to the rescue! We provide fast, reliable service across Perth and Fremantle. Whether it’s a broken copper pipe or a burst flexi hose, we’ve got the tools and know-how to fix it properly.
6. Remove Any Personal Items: Move furniture, electronics, and anything valuable away from the affected area. This will help reduce damage and prevent mould.
7. Dry the Area: Use towels, mops or even a wet/dry vacuum if you’ve got one handy. Open windows and turn on fans to get things drying quickly. The sooner things are dry, the better chance you have of avoiding long-term damage.
Can You Prevent Burst Pipes?
Yes, you can! Prevention is always cheaper than repairs. Here’s how:
- Book regular plumbing inspections to spot early signs of trouble.
- Check your water pressure – high pressure might feel nice in the shower, but it’s a silent pipe killer.
- Replace aging pipes and fittings before they fail.
- Keep an eye on flexi hoses under your sinks. If they’re fraying or rusty, it’s time for a replacement.
- Listen for water hammer and get it looked at, it’s a warning sign.
Don’t Wait for a Plumbing Disaster!
Burst pipes don’t have to be a disaster. With quick action and the right local team on your side, you can minimise the damage and get back to normal in no time.
If you’re in Perth or Fremantle, and you’re dealing with a burst pipe or you want to prevent one, call The Plumbing and Gas Heroes today. We’re your friendly, reliable experts in all things plumbing.