Quick Answer
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Common Symptoms
Possible Causes
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Step 1
Immediately locate and turn off the main water shut-off valve for the entire house.
Step 2
Go to the electrical breaker panel and turn off the power to all wet areas, or kill the main breaker for the whole house to be safe.
Step 3
After the main is off, open all faucets (hot and cold) to relieve pressure and help drain the system.
Step 4
Use your phone to take extensive photos and videos of the damage for insurance purposes before moving anything.
Step 5
If it is safe (power is confirmed off), begin removing water with a wet/dry vac and moving valuable items out of the affected area.
DIY vs Professional Costs
| Repair Type | DIY Cost | Professional Cost | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
Emergency Call-Out & Water Stop | N/A - Call a pro NOW! | $100 - $300 | 1 hour |
Minor Pipe Repair (Accessible) | $50 - $150 (If you have tools & skill) | $300 - $800 | 2-4 hours |
Major Pipe Repair (Inside Wall/Ceiling) | Don't even think about it. | $800 - $2,500+ | 4-8+ hours |
Water Damage Cleanup (Small Area) | $100+ (Fan & Dehumidifier Rental) | $500 - $1,500 | 2-3 Days |
Water Damage Restoration (Major) | Are you kidding? Call your insurance. | $2,500 - $10,000+ | Days to Weeks |
When to Call a Professional Water Damage
- Immediately after you shut off the water and power. This is an emergency, not a weekend project.
- If you cannot locate your main water shut-off valve or if it's stuck and you can't turn it.
- If water is leaking near your electrical panel, coming out of light fixtures, or in any situation where there's a serious electrical hazard.
- For all permanent repairs. A professional plumber is needed to properly fix a burst pipe.
- For the water damage cleanup. A restoration company has the specialized equipment to dry your home completely and prevent mold growth.
Prevention Tips
- Insulate all exposed water pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and attics using foam pipe sleeves.
- During extreme cold weather, allow a faucet furthest from the water main to drip slightly to keep water moving.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to allow warm house air to circulate around the pipes.
- Know the location of your main water shut-off valve and test it once a year to ensure it's not seized.
- Check your home's water pressure with a simple gauge; if it's over 80 PSI, have a plumber install a pressure-reducing valve (PRV).
- Disconnect garden hoses from outside faucets before winter to prevent trapped water from freezing and cracking the pipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
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