Having a burst pipe can be a nightmare for homeowners. You risk the possibility of losing property and having your house or business damaged. As critical as these issues are, it can be tricky to figure out what causes a burst water pipe on your own.

Our burst pipe experts at DCM Plumbing and Drainage can help you identify the signs of a burst water pipe and fix them for you, but first, let’s dive into what causes a burst water pipe and some ways that you can identify it.

Signs of A Burst Water Pipe

Increased water bill

Higher than usual water consumption on your water bill could be a sign that you have a burst water pipe.

A change in water pressure

Another sign of a possible burst water pipe are changes in water pressure from your taps. If it’s a trickle one minute and then full-force the next, you could have a problem!

Damp marks on the walls, ceiling or floor

Noticed some damp marks in your home? This could be a sign of a potential burst water pipe and should be looked at ASAP. 

Puddles or boggy areas around the garden

If you notice some puddles or boggy areas in your garden and don’t know where they came from, you could be dealing with a burst water pipe.

Brown or smelly water

Another common sign that you may have a burst water pipe is if there is brown or smelly water coming out of your taps. This is because a burst pipe can become contaminated by the elements due to the rupture. 

If you notice any of these problems in your home, be sure to call a qualified plumber today.

Causes of a Burst Water Pipe

High Water Pressure

If your water pressure is too high, it can put stress on your pipes and cause them to burst. To determine whether you have high water pressure, you can have a plumber check the pressure in your home. If it is too high, they can install a pressure reducing valve to help fix the problem. A pressure reducing valve, sometimes called a water pressure regulator, is a safe and relatively inexpensive way to reduce the pressure in your pipes, thus reducing the likelihood of a bursting pipe.

Corrosion of The Pipe

Pipes that have been corroded by rust can burst and cause water damage to your home. If you think your pipes might be corroded, it’s important to call a plumber to inspect them. The plumber can replace any corroded pipes and help prevent a burst pipe.

Deterioration of The Pipe

Another common cause of a burst water pipe is simply that the pipe has deteriorated. This can be due to age or damage. Think your pipes might have deteriorated? Then book an appointment with DCM Plumbing today, and we can arrange a visit to check your pipes and make sure to prevent any serious issues.

A Blocked Pipe

Blocked pipes don’t merely slow down the flow of water; if left unattended, they can trigger a burst pipe. However, you don’t need to go through the stress of sorting out a blocked pipe yourself, as DCM Plumbing can get it sorted for you in no time.

Temperature Changes

Cooler weather and large fluctuations in temperature cause your pipes as well as the dirt and soil surrounding them to contract and expand, which can lead to them bursting. This problem is exacerbated when temperatures reach 0 degrees and below as water expands when it freezes, which can then put internal pressure on the pipe, potentially leading to a rupture. 

Poor Installation

Unfortunately, poor soldering and general shoddy workmanship can occur on occasion, and this can wreak havoc on your pipes. This is why it’s crucial that if you notice any of the signs of a burst water pipe, you should contact a plumber immediately to help diagnose the problem. 

What To Do If You Suspect A Burst Water Pipe

  • Stop using all water in or outside the house (including taps, washing machine, dishwasher and toilets).
  • Locate the water meter and make a note of the digits on the meter (including the red digits and dials).
  • Re-read the meter in an hour (remember, don’t use household water during this time).
  • If the digits have moved, it’s likely that a leak is present.
  • Turn off the water supply at the meter immediately to avoid excess water usage charges and call a licensed plumber.

The team at DCM Plumbing is made up of fully licensed burst pipe plumbers on the Gold Coast. We provide same-day service, and we can help you avoid a burst pipe causing damage to your home and property. Contact us as soon as you suspect that you may have a burst pipe and we will get it sorted.