Burst or Frozen Pipes? What Homeowners in New Orleans Should Do Immediately

Burst or Frozen Pipes? What Homeowners in New Orleans Should Do Immediately

A burst pipe is one of the most stressful plumbing emergencies a homeowner can experience. Whether caused by freezing temperatures, aging pipes, corrosion, or excessive water pressure, a burst pipe can release gallons of water into your home in just minutes, leading to costly water damage.

Although frozen pipes are less common in Southeast Louisiana than in northern climates, the occasional hard freeze can catch homeowners off guard. When temperatures drop unexpectedly, pipes in uninsulated attics, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls are especially vulnerable.

At ATP Plumbing & Drain, we provide fast emergency plumbing services throughout New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Gretna, Mandeville, Covington, Slidell, Madisonville, Pearl River, Lacombe, the Northshore, and surrounding communities. If you suspect a burst or frozen pipe, here's what you should do.

What Causes Pipes to Burst?

Many homeowners assume pipes only burst because they freeze, but there are several possible causes.

Common reasons include:

• Freezing temperatures

• Aging or corroded pipes

• High water pressure

• Tree root intrusion

• Poor installation

• Shifting soil or foundation movement

• Accidental damage during renovations

Understanding the cause helps ensure the problem is repaired correctly and reduces the risk of future issues.

Signs You May Have a Burst Pipe

Some burst pipes are immediately obvious, while others occur behind walls, under floors, or in the attic.

Watch for these warning signs:

• Sudden loss of water pressure

• Water stains on ceilings or walls

• Puddles on the floor

• Wet drywall or flooring

• The sound of running water when no fixtures are in use

• An unexpected increase in your water bill

• Mold or mildew odors

• Visible water leaking from walls or ceilings

If you notice any of these signs, taking quick action can help limit water damage.

What to Do If a Pipe Bursts

1. Shut Off Your Main Water Supply

The first step is stopping the flow of water.

Locate your home's main shut-off valve and turn it off immediately. This prevents additional water from escaping through the damaged pipe.

Every homeowner should know where the main shut-off valve is located before an emergency occurs.

2. Turn Off Your Water Heater

After shutting off the water, it's a good idea to protect your water heater.

• Gas water heaters: Turn the control to the "Pilot" setting.

• Electric water heaters: Turn off the breaker supplying power to the unit.

Running a water heater without an adequate water supply can damage the system.

3. Drain Remaining Water

Open faucets throughout your home to help drain the remaining water from the plumbing system.

Flushing toilets once can also help relieve pressure inside the pipes.

4. Contain the Water

If it's safe to do so, use:

• Buckets

• Towels

• Mops

• Wet/dry vacuums

Containing the water quickly may help reduce damage to flooring, cabinets, and drywall.

5. Move Valuable Items

Protect electronics, furniture, rugs, important paperwork, and sentimental belongings by moving them away from standing water.

6. Call an Emergency Plumber

Burst pipes require professional repairs to ensure the damaged section is properly repaired or replaced.

The sooner repairs begin, the less chance there is for extensive water damage or mold growth.

What If Your Pipes Are Frozen?

If you suspect a pipe has frozen but hasn't burst:

• Turn on the faucet connected to the frozen pipe to relieve pressure.

• Apply gentle heat using a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels.

• Never use an open flame or propane torch.

• If you can't safely thaw the pipe, call a plumber immediately.

If the pipe has already cracked or burst, shut off the water supply and contact a professional.

Can Burst Pipes Cause Mold?

Yes.

Water from a burst pipe can quickly soak insulation, drywall, wood framing, and flooring.

If moisture isn't removed promptly, mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours.

Fast plumbing repairs combined with proper drying can help reduce the risk of mold and additional structural damage.

Preventing Frozen and Burst Pipes

While not every plumbing emergency can be prevented, these simple steps can reduce your risk:

• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas.

• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses before freezing weather.

• Seal air leaks around pipes entering your home.

• Keep your home heated during cold snaps.

• Allow faucets to drip during extended freezes.

• Schedule plumbing inspections if your home has older piping.

A little preparation can go a long way when unexpected cold weather arrives.

Why Choose ATP Plumbing & Drain?

When you're facing a plumbing emergency, you need a team that responds quickly and provides dependable repairs.

Homeowners throughout New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Gretna, Mandeville, Covington, Slidell, Madisonville, Pearl River, Lacombe, the Northshore, and surrounding communities trust ATP Plumbing & Drain because we offer:

• Emergency plumbing services

• Fast response times

• Experienced, licensed plumbers

• Honest recommendations

• Quality workmanship

• Upfront communication

• Reliable repairs that last

We understand that plumbing emergencies don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we.

Need Emergency Burst Pipe Repair?

If you're dealing with a burst pipe, frozen pipe, or another plumbing emergency, don't wait for the damage to get worse.

Contact ATP Plumbing & Drain for prompt emergency plumbing services in New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Gretna, Mandeville, Covington, Slidell, Madisonville, Pearl River, Lacombe, the Northshore, and surrounding communities. Our experienced team is ready to restore your plumbing system and help protect your home from further damage.