You can reduce water damage during a plumbing emergency by shutting off the water as fast as possible, removing standing water right away, moving belongings out of the area, and starting to dry the space within the first day. Speed matters most, since water keeps soaking into materials the longer it sits.
Stop the Source
Close the shutoff valve on the fixture if there is one. If the leak is in a wall, ceiling, or main pipe, turn off the main water valve. Knowing where that valve is before an emergency saves precious minutes, so it is worth finding it today.
Get the Water Out
Use towels, mops, and buckets to remove water from the floor. A wet vacuum can help on hard floors, but only use it if there is no risk of electrical contact. Lift rugs and set them somewhere to dry. Water that sits under flooring can cause warping and mold.
Protect What You Can
Move furniture, electronics, papers, and photos to a dry room. Put foil or plastic under furniture legs that cannot be moved to keep wood from soaking up water. If water is coming through the ceiling, place containers under drips and keep people away from sagging areas.
Dry the Space
- Open windows if the weather allows
- Run fans and a dehumidifier once the power is safe
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to let air in
- Check the area again over the next few days for musty smells
Take photos of everything before and during cleanup for your insurance company.
Once the immediate danger is handled, the broken pipe or fixture can be repaired. Afterward, a look at the condition of your pipes and fixtures can help you avoid a repeat. Knowing where your main shutoff valve is ahead of time also makes the next emergency easier to handle. Call JPR Plumbing at (833) 603-1840.