How to fix a burst pipe

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If you've got a burst pipe, it's important to act quickly. It's not just a case of avoiding water damage – it could also be potentially dangerous. Follow these 5 easy steps to learn how to fix a burst pipe.

1. Turn off the power

If you've got a burst pipe near an electricity source, it's crucial that you turn off the electricity at the main fuse box straight away. We all know what happens when water and electricity mix. But be careful: if the fuse box looks wet, don't touch it, and call a professional in as soon as possible.

2. Find the isolation valve

If your pipe's leaking, you'll want to stop the flow of water as soon as you can. Look for an isolation valve like this one. Using a flat headed screwdriver, turn the screw until the slot is at 90 degrees to the flow of the pipe. Hopefully, this should stop the leak.

3. Find your stopcock

If turning off the isolation valve hasn't helped, you'll need to find the stopcock for your home. This is the valve that shuts off the water supply to your property. It's usually under the kitchen sink, but in some homes, you'll find it out in the hallway.

4. Close the stopcock

Turn the handle on the stopcock clockwise until it's fully closed. This should cut off the water to your plumbing system. It's also a good idea to turn off your heating system, as well.

5. Tackle the pipe

With the electricity, water and heating safely turned off, you're ready to return to the pipe. Tie a piece of cloth tightly around the affected area to hold the burst pipe and avoid any further damage. It's a temporary measure, but it should help until you can get the pipe professionally fixed.