A burst pipe is every homeowner’s nightmare—and in a place like Orlando, where humidity and unexpected cold snaps can clash, it’s a plumbing emergency that happens more often than most people think. Whether it’s due to aging pipes, clogs, or weather-related damage, a burst pipe can quickly lead to water damage, mold growth, and thousands in repair costs.

When water is gushing into your home or business, waiting for professional help can feel like forever. That’s why knowing what to do immediately after discovering a burst pipe can significantly reduce the damage—and your stress. This guide will walk you through the exact steps to take before a licensed technician from our team  at Absolute Best Plumbing arrives to save the day.

 

Recognizing the Signs of a Burst Pipe

Sometimes, a burst pipe isn’t as dramatic as water flooding your living room—it can start as a slow leak or mysterious puddle. Look for these telltale signs:

• Sudden drops in water pressure

• Unexplained spikes in your water bill

• Water stains on ceilings or walls

• Musty smells near plumbing fixtures

• Sounds of running water when pipes aren’t in use

If any of these signs appear—especially after freezing temperatures or pipe-related repairs—it’s time to act quickly.

 

Step 1: Shut Off the Main Water Valve

Your first move? Stop the flow of water. Locate your home or business’s main water shut-off valve. In most Orlando homes, this is either:

• Outside, near the water meter by the curb

• Inside the garage

• Near the water heater

• In a crawl space or basement (in older homes)

Once located, turn the valve clockwise until it stops. This prevents any more water from entering your pipes and worsening the flood.

If you’re unsure where your shut-off valve is located, now’s a great time to find it—before an emergency hits.

Step 2: Shut Off Electricity to Affected Areas

Water and electricity? Not friends.

If water from the burst pipe is near outlets, appliances, or your breaker box, turn off electricity to that area immediately. If you’re unsure how to do this safely, avoid stepping into any standing water and wait for professional help.

Pro tip: If you haven’t already, label your circuit breakers. It’s an easy way to speed up response times in situations like this.

 

Step 3: Drain the Pipes

Even with the main water off, there’s still water sitting in your plumbing system. Here’s how to get it out:

1. Turn on all faucets, starting with cold water taps.

2. Flush every toilet in your home.

3. Turn off your water heater, then open the hot water taps to drain them safely.

Draining your system reduces pressure inside the pipes and helps prevent additional leaks while you wait for an expert from emergency plumbing services Orlando.

 

Step 4: Contain the Water Damage

The faster you act, the less long-term damage you’ll have. Grab towels, mops, buckets—whatever you’ve got—and get to work soaking up excess water.

Here are some smart ways to minimize water damage:

• Use towels to build a dam around water flow

• Move furniture and rugs to dry areas

• Set up fans or dehumidifiers if you have them

• Open windows to encourage airflow

If you have access to a wet/dry shop vac, use it to remove pooled water from carpets or hard floors.

 

Step 5: Document the Damage

Before you start repairs or clean up too thoroughly, take photos and videos of everything: wet floors, the burst pipe, damaged walls or furniture. This documentation will be critical if you need to file a homeowners insurance claim later.

Be thorough—walk through the entire home and note any water trails or secondary damage.

 

Step 6: Call a Trusted Orlando Emergency Plumber

Once the immediate threat is contained, it’s time to bring in the professionals. At Absolute Best Plumbing we offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services Orlando and can dispatch licensed, background-checked technicians who know the unique plumbing challenges of Central Florida.

Whether the issue is a burst supply line, a cracked PVC pipe, or a corroded connection, our team has the tools, parts, and experience to fix it fast.

 

Common Causes of Burst Pipes in Orlando

Understanding why pipes burst can help you prevent future disasters. Here are the most common reasons Orlando residents call for help:

• Aging pipes: Older homes, especially those with polybutylene piping, are at higher risk. If this sounds familiar, consider pipe replacement Orlando to avoid future emergencies.

• Clogs: Grease, hair, and debris can cause blockages, creating pressure that leads to pipe ruptures.

• Freezing temperatures: While rare, sudden cold snaps in Florida can freeze pipes and cause them to expand and burst.

• Tree root invasion: Roots can grow into underground pipes, causing leaks or bursts over time.

• Corrosion: High mineral content in Orlando’s water supply can wear down pipes from the inside out.

 

Temporary Fixes You Can Try (If Safe to Do So)

If you’ve identified the location of the leak and it’s small, you can try these temporary fixes while waiting for your plumber:

• Rubber and clamp: Wrap the pipe in rubber (like from an old hose) and secure it with a clamp.

• Epoxy putty: Found at most hardware stores, this quick-hardening putty can stop small leaks.

• Pipe tape: Silicone tape can seal off tiny cracks or pinholes temporarily.

These are only temporary solutions—always have a professional inspect and properly repair the damage.

 

How to Prevent Burst Pipes in the Future

The best plumbing emergency is the one that never happens. Here’s how to make your home or business more burst-resistant:

1. Schedule Annual Plumbing Inspections

Having regular inspections by a professional who offers full plumbing services Orlando can identify issues before they become disasters.

2. Replace Outdated Pipes

If your home has polybutylene or galvanized steel piping, it’s time to consider pipe replacement Orlando. These materials are prone to leaks and bursts.

3. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Even in Florida, exposed pipes can freeze during rare cold snaps. Use foam pipe insulation—cheap, easy to install, and effective.

4. Be Kind to Your Drains

Avoid flushing wipes, pouring grease down the sink, or dumping food scraps. Better drain habits mean less pressure and fewer clogs.

 

Burst Pipes in Commercial Properties

For Orlando business owners, a burst pipe can spell disaster for daily operations, lead to lost revenue, and even force temporary closures. Commercial properties often have more complex plumbing systems and higher water pressure, increasing the risk of catastrophic damage.

In addition to following the steps outlined above, commercial property owners should:

• Know where ALL shut-off valves are

• Assign emergency plumbing contacts to employees

• Keep wet/dry vacs and dehumidifiers on hand

• Partner with us, a trusted provider of emergency plumbing services Orlando for fast, reliable response

 

Additional Common Emergency Plumbing Needs in Orlando

A burst pipe may be just one of the many plumbing emergencies Orlando residents face. Here are a few more situations where fast action is essential:

1. Clogged Toilets

Whether it’s a guest at a theme park rental or a commercial building with dozens of employees, clogged toilets can’t wait. Absolute Best Plumbing offers professional Clogged Toilet Repair Services Orlando to get things flowing again quickly.

2. Leaking Faucets or Broken Fixtures

Don’t underestimate a slow drip—it could be a sign of pressure problems. Get help fast with faucet repair installation Orlando to avoid bigger problems.

3. Water Line Damage

Underground water lines can be damaged by roots, soil shifts, or construction work. If your lawn is mysteriously soggy, call for water line repair service Orlando before a small issue becomes a flood.

4. Water Heater Malfunctions

Cold shower? Leaking tank? No hot water during a cold spell? Trust Orlando Water Heater repairs to restore your comfort fast.

 

When to Call Insurance After a Burst Pipe

Once the emergency is under control, reach out to your homeowners or commercial property insurance provider. Most policies cover sudden and accidental water damage—but not if the issue was due to negligence.

To ensure a smooth claim process:

• Provide documentation and photos

• Keep receipts from any repairs or equipment rental

• Request a report from your plumbing provider outlining the issue and their fix

Check out Florida’s Office of Insurance Regulation for more on coverage requirements and claims.

 

Be Prepared: Create a Home Plumbing Emergency Kit

We keep flashlights for hurricanes—why not prep for plumbing problems too? Your kit should include:

• Flashlight
• Pipe clamps
• Plumber’s tape
• Epoxy putty
• Bucket
• Old towels
• Gloves
• Wrench for shut-off valves
• Contact info for Absolute Best Plumbing

Ready-to-go kits can make a massive difference in a high-stress moment.

 

Why Orlando Residents Trust Absolute Best Plumbing

When water’s pouring through your ceiling or soaking your floors, you don’t just need any plumber—you need the right one. Absolute Best Plumbing is:

• Family-owned and operated with years of local experience

• Fully licensed and insured

• Available 24/7 for emergencies

• Known for transparent pricing and trustworthy technicians

From burst pipes to bathroom upgrades, their comprehensive plumbing services Orlando are designed to keep homes and businesses safe, dry, and functional.

Helpful External Resources

Here are some additional tools to help Orlando residents prepare for and recover from plumbing emergencies:

• City of Orlando Utility Water Emergency Info

• FEMA’s Guide to Water Damage and Cleanup

• EPA Plumbing Best Practices

 

FAQs: What You Need to Know About Burst Pipes and Emergency Plumbing

1. How long does it take a plumber to fix a burst pipe?
   In most cases, a professional plumber can fix a burst pipe within 1 to 3 hours, depending on the severity and location of the damage. If it’s a minor crack in an accessible spot, the fix might be quick and straightforward. But if the burst has caused flooding behind walls or beneath floors—or if the pipe is old and corroded—additional steps like wall restoration or pipe rerouting may be necessary, which can add a few extra hours. Either way, the sooner you call, the faster your home can start recovering.
2. Will insurance cover water damage from a burst pipe?
   Typically, yes—homeowners insurance does cover water damage from a burst pipe if the event is sudden and accidental. However, it won’t cover damage from neglect, such as if the pipe had been leaking for months. To ensure your claim is approved, take clear photos of the damage, document everything, and contact your insurer promptly. It also helps to request a professional report from your plumber outlining the cause and urgency of the repair.
3. Can I prevent my pipes from bursting?
   Definitely. Preventing burst pipes is all about being proactive. Regular inspections from a licensed plumber, replacing aging or faulty materials like polybutylene piping, and insulating pipes in garages, attics, or exterior walls are all key prevention tactics. During the rare Florida cold snap, let faucets drip slightly to keep water flowing and relieve pressure. Also, avoid clogs and over-pressurization by not pouring grease or foreign objects down the drain.
4. Is a small leak considered a plumbing emergency?
   It might seem minor, but even a small leak can become a big problem fast. If a pipe is leaking, it may be under pressure and at risk of bursting—especially if it’s in an enclosed space where water can pool. Small leaks can also lead to mold growth, water stains, or foundation damage. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and call for an inspection, especially if you notice dripping, damp drywall, or discoloration.
5. Do I need to replace my pipes after one burst?
   Not always—but it depends on why the pipe burst. If it was a freak accident (like impact damage during a remodel), a one-time fix might be all you need. But if the pipe burst due to age, corrosion, or outdated materials, your plumber may recommend a more comprehensive solution like repiping sections of your home. This is especially common in older Orlando homes with galvanized steel or polybutylene pipes, which are known to fail over time.
6. Can I fix a burst pipe myself?
   You can mitigate the damage, but the repair itself should be left to a professional. Turn off your main water valve, drain the system, and mop up any water to prevent further damage. You might try temporary measures like epoxy putty, rubber wraps, or plumbing tape to contain a leak, but these are just stopgaps. A professional repair ensures the pipe is fully sealed, structurally sound, and up to code—especially if insurance or permits are involved.
7. What kind of pipes are most prone to bursting?
   Polybutylene pipes, often found in homes built from the 1970s to the mid-1990s, are notorious for failing under pressure. Likewise, galvanized steel pipes, common in even older homes, can corrode from the inside, weakening over time until they burst. These materials were once standard but are now considered outdated and unreliable. If you have either, it’s wise to schedule an inspection and discuss pipe replacement Orlando with a licensed plumber.
8. Why do pipes burst in Florida when it rarely freezes?
   It’s true—freezing weather isn’t the only reason pipes burst. In Florida, pipe bursts are often due to high water pressure, root intrusion, clogs, corrosion, or aging infrastructure. For example, fluctuating temperatures can cause materials to expand and contract, loosening joints and causing weak spots. Additionally, poor installation or unregulated pressure from municipal lines can wear out plumbing systems prematurely.
9. What should I do if a pipe bursts at night or on the weekend?
   First, don’t panic—then shut off your water main immediately. Mop up standing water, turn off electricity in affected areas, and call a 24/7 emergency plumber like Absolute Best Plumbing. Time matters with water damage, and emergency services are there to help you avoid more serious and expensive repairs. Keep their number handy on your fridge or saved in your phone so you’re not scrambling to find help at 2 a.m.
10. How do I know if I need emergency plumbing services or if it can wait?
    If water is actively leaking or gushing, if there’s flooding, or if a pipe has burst—that’s an emergency. Other red flags include water discoloration, foul smells from drains, non-flushing toilets, or no access to clean water. On the other hand, issues like a slow drain or low water pressure may be able to wait for a regular appointment. When in doubt, give a trusted plumber a quick call—they can guide you over the phone and let you know how urgent the situation is.