A water min break can be one of the most stressful and overwhelming plumbing emergencies a homeowner can face. Water rushing through your yard or flooding your basement isn’t just a mess – it can cause serious property damage and leave you without water for hours or even days. But don’t panic! Here’s everything you need to know if your water main breaks, and how to respond quickly and safely.
What is a Water Main?
Your water main is the primary pipe that brings clean water from the municipal supply into your home. It usually runs underground from the street to your house. A break of leak in this pipe can disrupt your water supply and cause water to surface in your yard, driveway, or basement.
Signs of a Water Main Break
- Sudden drop in water pressure
- Discolored water
- Water pooling in the yard or street
- Unexplained increase in water bills
- Rumbling or hissing noises near your pipes
- Flooding in your basement or crawlspace
What to Do if Your Water Main Breaks
1.Turn off the water
Find and shut off your home’s main water valve to prevent further flooding and damage. This valve is typically located in your basement, crawlspace, or near the water meter.
2. Call a Licensed Plumber
Water main breaks are not DIY projects. Call a licensed plumber immediately. At Ottagan Plumbing, we offer emergency plumbing services to handle these situations quickly and efficiently.
3. Contact Your Water Utility
Your local water utility should also be notified – they may need to shut off water at the street or assist in isolating the issue.
4. Document the Damage
Check if your homeowner’s insurance covers water main breaks and start a claim if applicable.
5. Contact Your Insurance Company
Check if your homeowner’s insurance covers water main breaks and start a claim if applicable.
How Water Main Breaks are Repaired
A professional plumber will typically:
- Locate the exact break using specialized equipment
- Excavate the area safely
- Replace the damaged section of pipe with a durable, code-compliant material
- test the system and backfill the excavation site
Preventing Future Water Main Issues
- Know where your main shut-off valve is located
- Inspect your plumbing regularly for signs of wear or corrosion
- Address small leaks quickly before they become big problems
- Schedule routine plumbing inspections with professionals
Need Help Right Now?
At Ottagan Plumbing, we’re ready to respond 24/7 to water main emergencies. Our licensed, experienced plumbers will assess the situation, explain your options, and restore your water supply as quickly and safely as possible.
Save our number now – you’ll be glad you did if the unexpected happens!
Call Ottagan Plumbing today at 616.392.6053.
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