When a pipe bursts in your home, it feels like chaos.
Water everywhere. You’re panicking. You don’t know where to start.

As a plumber, I’ve walked dozens of Sacramento homeowners through the first 15 minutes over the phone — before I ever arrive at their door.

And let me tell you:

What you do in those first minutes can save you thousands of dollars in damage.

Here’s what I actually say to customers when they call and say, “Help — there’s water pouring out of the wall.”

1. First, Stop the Water — Fast

If you know where the main water shutoff valve is — turn it off immediately.

• It’s usually where the water line enters your home (garage, side of house, basement)
• Turn it clockwise until it’s tight
• Can’t find it? Shut off water at the street box if you can

Don’t worry about the heater, hoses, or anything else right now — just stop the flow.

2. Kill the Electricity (If Water Is Near Outlets)

If the burst happened near outlets, appliances, or a light switch — go to your electrical panel and shut off the affected breakers.

Water + electricity = serious risk.

If it’s not near anything electrical, you’re likely okay — but always play it safe.

3. Start Containing Water — Towels, Buckets, Brooms

Don’t try to fix the pipe — just manage the water.

• Use towels to block doorways
• Grab buckets to catch water from ceilings or cabinets
• Use a broom or squeegee to push water toward a floor drain or out the door

The faster you keep it from spreading, the less damage you’ll have.

4. Take Photos of Everything (Trust Me)

Before you start ripping up carpet or dumping water — snap some pictures:

• Where the water is
• What’s wet
• Damage to walls, furniture, flooring

This helps with insurance — and helps me assess the situation before I arrive.

5. Call a Licensed Plumber — Fast

Even if you stopped the water, the pipe still needs to be:

• Repaired or replaced
• Pressure-tested
• Checked for further damage

At Golden Valley Plumbing, we handle emergency burst pipes across Sacramento — day or night. I always prioritize burst calls.

Bonus: Here’s What NOT to Do

• Don’t try to tape the pipe (it won’t hold)
• Don’t crank up fans without drying inside walls
• Don’t assume it’s a one-time leak — it often isn’t
• Don’t wait — moisture behind walls = mold within 48 hours

What We Do at Golden Valley Plumbing

When you call us for a burst pipe, we:

• Show up fast (same-day priority)
• Repair or replace the pipe
• Help you dry and clean the area
• Check your system for pressure or corrosion issues
• Give you clear next steps and prevention tips

Water gushing where it shouldn’t be? Call Golden Valley Plumbing — we’ll help you breathe, clean it up, and get your home back in shape.

Final Word

When a pipe bursts, it feels overwhelming.
But if you act fast, stay calm, and know what to do — you’ll be okay.

And if you ever need help? I’ve seen it all. I’ll talk you through it, then fix it for good.