How to handle a burst pipe

How to Handle a Burst Pipe in Your Pasadena Home

Water Restoration

Few home emergencies cause as much panic and stress as a burst pipe. One minute everything’s fine—the next, water is gushing through your walls or ceiling. If you’re a homeowner in Pasadena, knowing how to handle a burst pipe can help you minimize damage and avoid costly repairs.

At PuroClean of Pasadena, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly water from a burst pipe can wreak havoc on a home. Whether you live in a historic Craftsman in Bungalow Heaven or a modern house in East Pasadena, here’s what you need to do the moment disaster strikes.

How to Handle a Burst Pipe in Your Pasadena Home


Step 1: Shut Off the Main Water Supply

The first thing to do when dealing with a burst pipe is to turn off the main water valve. This will stop the flow of water and prevent additional flooding. Most main shutoff valves in Pasadena homes are located near the water meter, often outside near the curb or inside the garage.

Tip: Make sure everyone in your household knows where the main water valve is and how to turn it off in an emergency.


Step 2: Turn Off Electricity in the Affected Area

If water is leaking near electrical outlets, appliances, or your fuse box, turn off the power to that area immediately. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination and can pose serious risks.

If you’re unsure, call a licensed electrician or wait for professionals like PuroClean of Pasadena to arrive.


Step 3: Drain Remaining Water and Open Faucets

After shutting off the water supply, open cold water taps throughout your house to drain the pipes and reduce pressure. Also, flush toilets to empty tanks and bowls. Then, shut off your water heater and open hot water faucets.

This step helps relieve pressure in your plumbing system and may prevent additional damage.


Step 4: Identify the Burst Pipe Location

Look for obvious signs such as bulging walls, ceiling water stains, or active leaks. Knowing where the break occurred can help you provide more information to your plumber or restoration team.

For hidden leaks, you may need a professional moisture inspection. PuroClean of Pasadena uses advanced thermal imaging tools to locate water behind walls or under flooring.


Step 5: Call the Experts

Dealing with a burst pipe is not a DIY situation. Even if the water seems minor, trapped moisture can lead to mold, warped flooring, and long-term structural issues.

That’s where PuroClean of Pasadena comes in. We’re available 24/7 to help you stop the damage, dry your home, and restore it to pre-loss condition. Learn more about our fast-response process in our blog: Why Fast Response Matters in Restoration.


Step 6: Start the Dry-Out Process

Use fans and open windows if it’s safe to do so. But remember—home drying equipment usually isn’t powerful enough for major water damage. Professional drying prevents mold and ensures no moisture is left behind.

For homeowners in Pasadena, where temperatures and humidity can vary, proper drying is essential to prevent long-term issues.


Step 7: File an Insurance Claim

Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover burst pipes caused by sudden, accidental damage (not negligence or lack of maintenance). Take photos, write down what was damaged, and file your claim as soon as possible.

Need help navigating insurance? Our team at PuroClean of Pasadena works directly with insurers to help make the claims process easier.


Preventing Future Burst Pipes

  • Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas
  • Repair small leaks before they worsen
  • Keep your home warm during cold snaps
  • Have a plumber inspect older pipes

Need Help Now?

If you’re facing a plumbing emergency and wondering how to handle a burst pipe, don’t wait. Call PuroClean of Pasadena at (626) 773-4400 or Contact Us Online. We’ll dispatch a trained team to your home—fast, friendly, and ready to help.

For emergency preparedness resources, visit Ready.gov’s Burst Pipe Safety Guide.


PuroClean of PasadenaThe Paramedics of Property Damage®
Here when you need us most—24/7 water damage restoration for homes across Pasadena.