Burst Pipe Repair in San Diego, CA

First steps while you wait

1. Close the main shutoff, usually where the supply line enters the house or near the front hose bib.
2. If that valve will not turn, the meter box valve is the fallback.
3. Switch off power to any wet area at the breaker panel.
4. Turn off the water heater (gas to pilot, or the breaker for electric).
5. Move belongings, then photograph the damage for insurance.

Breaks in the street

Water bubbling up in the street, the sidewalk or around the meter may be on the City's side. The City of San Diego Public Utilities Emergency Hotline is 619-515-3525. Under City rules, piping from the meter toward the house belongs to the property owner.

Why pipes fail in a mild climate

Coastal San Diego rarely freezes, so most bursts here have other causes. Inland valleys and higher East County areas can see the occasional hard freeze, and exposed hose bibs, irrigation backflow assemblies and pipes in uninsulated exterior walls are the weak points then. More often, the trigger is a corroded fitting, high water pressure, water hammer from fast-closing valves, or a braided supply hose under a sink, toilet or washer that finally gives out. Salt air near the beach is also hard on exposed outdoor piping and hose bibs.

What the repair involves

• Opening drywall or ceiling enough to reach sound pipe on both sides
• Cutting out the failed section and joining new pipe
• Restoring pressure and checking every joint for drips
• Looking at nearby pipe for the same corrosion or wear

What affects the bill

The location of the break, how much finish material must be opened, the pipe type and the time of the call all play a part. Drywall, paint and water damage drying are usually handled by other trades.

Preventing the next one

Have the plumber check your static water pressure and the pressure reducing valve if the home has one, since a failing regulator lets pressure creep up on every pipe and hose. Swap old rubber washer and supply hoses for braided ones, learn where the main shutoff is before you need it, and keep the area around it clear. On inland or hillside properties, insulate exposed outdoor piping before winter cold snaps.