When a burst pipe strikes, it’s natural to panic and become confused about what to do next. However, knowing the right steps to take while you wait for a professional plumber can make all the difference.
In addition to providing expert burst pipe repair services, we’ll guide you through the necessary steps to manage the situation effectively, helping you minimize damage in your Fox Cities Home and maintain peace of mind until help arrives.
1. Access the Situation
Start by identifying the source of the leak. Look for signs of water damage or listen for unusual sounds to pinpoint where the burst is occurring.
2. Shut Off the Water Supply and Electricity
Locate your main water shut-off valve and turn it off. Typically, you can find the main water shut-off valve near the perimeter of your home, often in a basement, crawl space, or close to where the water line enters your house. This critical step can significantly reduce further damage and minimize pressure on the damaged pipe.
Remember to also turn off your home’s electricity. The main electrical shut-off is usually located in your circuit breaker panel, which is often found in a basement, garage, utility room, or sometimes in a hallway closet.
To turn off the power, locate the main switch labeled “Main” or “Main Power” and flip it to the “off” position.
3. Drain the Pipes
Open faucets and fixtures to drain any remaining water in the pipes. This helps alleviate pressure and reduces the risk of further leaks.
First, turn off your water supply, and then flush your toilets. This step ensures that pipes are emptied and reduces potential water overflow and pressure.
4. Contact a Local Plumbing Professional
If you’re in the Fox Cities area, contact the team of emergency plumbers at Watters Plumbing today for immediate assistance. Providing details about your situation can help us respond quickly.
At Watters Plumbing, we have over 60 years of experience providing 24-hour emergency plumbing services throughout Northeast Wisconsin, including Appleton, Fox Cities, Green Bay, Oshkosh, and the surrounding areas.
5. Mitigate Water Damage
Remove belongings near the affected area. Protecting your valuables from water damage is extremely important during this time.
Do not step into the water to prevent safety risks until professional help arrives, including contaminated water and potential electrical issues.
Use towels and buckets to soak up excess water and contain the leak as much as possible. If you have fans or dehumidifiers, set them up to help dry out the space and prevent mold growth.
Call us at (920) 204-7517
6. Stay Calm and Wait
Take a moment to breathe and collect your thoughts. Staying calm will help you make better decisions and provide our team with the necessary details to best support you.
Avoid attempting any DIY plumbing fixes. To maintain safety and effectiveness, it’s best to wait for our team of professional plumbers to handle repairs. Our emergency crew will be at your home as soon as possible!
Contact Watters for 24/7 Emergency Plumbing Services in the Fox Cities
From burst pipes to frozen pipes and toilet backups, the expert plumbing technicians at Watters are here to help you restore your home and maintain peace of mind, day or night. Don’t hesitate to contact our team—we’ve got your back!



