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What to Do About a Burst Main Water Line While Waiting for a Plumber

A burst main water line is a nightmare scenario for any homeowner or property owner but is a reality for many, especially during the winter…

May 05, 2026
What to Do About a Burst Main Water Line While Waiting for a Plumber

A burst main water line is a nightmare scenario for any homeowner or property owner but is a reality for many, especially during the winter months. There are many preventative steps that can reduce the likelihood of a devastating burst pipe, but what about after the fact? What do you do next if your main water line has burst and you have already called for a local plumber? This article brought to you by Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey will go over some things you can do to reduce the damage. If you have any questions or conces, or if you would like to hire a certified plumber, then call Mr. Rooter Plumbing now as we have live representatives on standby 24/7/365.

Our Customers Reviews

Larry R.

Howell Township, NJ

It was a late Saturday night. We had a super stubborn clog in some old galvanized pipes. Mr. Rooter send out Phil. Phil was great! He found the problem pretty quick. With determination and professionalism he final got it cleared out. I would recommend Mr. Rooter and Phil to anyone! He even cleaned up. We are so happy we choose Mr. Rooter!

Rose Bernard

Red Bank, NJ

We had a plumbing emergency and found Mr. Rooter while frantically searching for a 24-hour plumber. We feel like we hit a gold mine. Not only did we get a timely response. Everyone at Mr. Rooter was friendly, professional, competent and went above and beyond. Our plumber, Phil, was extremely helpful and gave us tips we could use moving firwars. Not to mention, the cost was extremely reasonable.

Joseph Chis

Hillsborough, NJ

Had sewer water backup in toilet and tub. Received callback as promised and arrived early. The tech determined we needed the main line to be cleared. He quickly located the opening and had us cleared in minutes. Very happy with the service. I was not prepared for the fee but it was an emergency.

Christopher Cox

Little Silver Township

Plumber, Phil, came out on short notice on a Saturday night and fixed our issue quickly, professionally and courteously. I contacted a different, well known plumbing company right before Mr. Rooter. The receptionist was rude and they didn’t call me back to say they couldn’t make it until after Phil left! The Mr. Rooter receptionist was very nice and they called me back quickly. I’m glad they did.

Debbie Dimitrion

Colts Neck, NJ

I just wanted to say James did a great job at my house. Excellent service, professional and very nice. Thank you so much for helping me with my plumbing problem. Did wonderful job.

Rachel Turunen

Jackson Township

I was very happy that I went with Mr. Rooter’s. The service was very quick and up front. Jessie James was very helpful answering my questions and replacing my hot water heater. He was pleasurable to do business with. If another problem arises in my home, I will be using this company again.

William Holden

Brick Township, NJ

A thorough, professional, pleasant experience. I had a back-up in the 50 year-old pipes of my new home. I called Mr. Rooter to have them locate the blockage, snake the line, and then use their video snake to get a visual of the integrity of the pipes. I’m glad that I called and will use them again for future needs.

LarJ MarJ

Oakhurst, NJ

You get what you pay for. Edwin Robles of Central NJ educated me as a 1st time homebuyer on why and what he was repairing, prevention, PROMPT,(on a sunday at that!) clean, knowledgeable, super professional but DOWN TO EARTH and at a REASONABLE PRICE! Sewer pipes unclogged and main water line fixed. I was no longer crying once job was thoroughly executed. After all $#@* $tinks but somebody has to do it and I HIGHLY recommend him and this company for a job well done. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!

Margie Rafferty-Criscione

Ocean Township

Absolutely lovely office staff! I always knew when the repair person was coming. Lorenzo our repair guy was awesome, I really don't think there is anything he can't do. He looks young, but don't let that fool you! So happy all the repairs are behind us. We really just did a one-stop shopping and decided to have everything we've put off fixed because it was such a tremendous experience!

What to Do About a Burst Main Water Line While Waiting for a Plumber

Shut Off the Water

It sounds like common sense, but it is easy to forget when you are in a panic. The first thing you want to do when a pipe bursts is head to your water shutoff valve and shut it off quickly. If you do not know where it is, then check the property inspection report that you received when purchasing your report. Typically, the main water shutoff valve is either in the basement or on the perimeter of the house. Find the valve and tu the water off immediately.

Drain the Faucets

A main water line will burst if there is excessive pressure in the pipes. This is often cause by frozen water in the pipe. When water freezes, its volume expands by almost 10 percent. So, to combat this, you will have to work to reduce the pressure in the pipes. First, relieve extra pressure by draining all faucets. Tu on all of the cold-water faucets and flush toilets several times. Next, tu off the water heater and drain all of the hot water taps as well.
As we mentioned, frozen pipes are the usual suspects for burst pipes. Reduce pressure by working to melt the ice in the pipes. You can do this by tuing up the thermostat in the house, opening cupboard doors that house pipes, and warming exposed pipes with a hairdryer.

Clean Up the Mess

Once you have contained the damage, you should transition into cleaning mode. Grab a mob, bucket, and shop vacuum to start getting rid of the water. Leaving this water can cause costly water damage, which brings us to another point. You should document all damage to the property as well as your personal belongings. Take photos and videos as proof and evidence for when you file your insurance claim. This can be the difference between having the insurance company cover damages and paying for the repairs out of pocket.

Call the Professionals

If you have not already, then call the professionals at Mr. Rooter Plumbing to request an urgent dispatch by a certified plumber. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey is proud to be available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, so do not hesitate to call. Our live representatives are on standby to take your call now.
 

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