What To Do If A Pipe Bursts

In Oswego, a burst pipe is most likely during a lake-effect cold snap, when a pipe in an outside wall, crawl space or unheated porch freezes and splits. Often it does not leak until the ice thaws, and then it leaks hard. The first few minutes decide how much damage the water does, so it helps to know the steps before you need them. Shut the water off first, then call (315) 602-3356; same-day visits are often possible when a plumber is available.

Step by step instructions to limit the damage

1. Close the main water shut-off. In most Oswego homes it is in the basement or crawl space where the water line comes through the foundation wall, next to the meter. See how to find your water shut-off.
2. If water is near outlets, appliances or the electrical panel, stay out of the water and switch off that circuit only if you can reach the panel safely.
3. Turn off the water heater's gas or breaker if hot water lines are involved.
4. Open the lowest faucet in the house to drain the remaining water from the pipes.
5. Move valuables, rugs and electronics out of the wet area and start removing water with towels, a mop or a wet vacuum.
6. Take photos of the damage for your insurance company.
7. Call a plumber to repair the pipe properly.

Our team is fully committed to reliable burst pipe repair in Oswego.

Why pipes burst in Oswego

Oswego averages about 140 inches of lake-effect snow a season, and January is the coldest month. More than half of the city's homes were built before 1940, and many have pipes running through exterior walls, crawl spaces and additions with little insulation. When water freezes it expands, and the pressure builds between the ice and a closed faucet until the pipe splits. Old galvanized and thin copper pipe gives way sooner. Outdoor faucets left connected to a hose are a classic failure point. We will ensure that your frozen pipe repair in Oswego is handled by professionals.

Before the next freeze

• Insulate pipes in crawl spaces, garages, attics and outside walls.
• Disconnect garden hoses in the fall, and shut off and drain the supply to outdoor faucets, or ask about frost-free hose bibs.
• Seal drafts where cold air reaches pipes, such as rim joists and gaps around the water line.
• During a hard cold snap, open cabinet doors under sinks on outside walls and let a faucet drip.
• Keep the heat on when you are away, and have someone check the house during a long trip.
• Learn where your main shut-off is and make sure it turns.

A little preparation in the fall saves a flooded basement in February. Our team is focused on high-quality frozen pipe prevention and repair across Oswego, Fulton, Phoenix and Mexico. See our emergency plumber page, and call (315) 602-3356 when you need help.