Water Main Breaks - How Do They Affect My Home?

Water main breaks are not super common, but Cronin Plumbing and Heating has seen a lot in their over 10 years of business. A water main break is a severe problem that can occur in your town and can lead to severe damage to your home's plumbing system. In this blog post, we will discuss the effects a water main break in your town can have on your home's plumbing system.

Water Main Break at 1st and Jefferson, Hoboken, NJ, May 18th, 2022 (Photo via @SUEZwaternj)

A water main break occurs when there is a rupture in the primary water supply line that delivers water to your town. This type of break can cause an immediate loss of water pressure, and in some cases, it can even result in a complete loss of water supply. The effects of a water main break can range from mild to severe, depending on the severity of the break and the location of your home. Unfortunately, these breaks happen often in cities with older water infrastructure, like Hoboken where Cronin Plumbing and Heating is based out of, so you should be prepared to protect your most valuable asset – your home.

If you are experiencing a water main break in your town, it is essential to take immediate action to protect your home's plumbing system. One of the first things you should do is turn off your home's main water valve to prevent any potential water damage. If you have a basement or crawl space, you should also turn off any water supply valves located in these areas to prevent flooding.

The loss of water pressure caused by a water main break can also cause problems with your home's plumbing fixtures. Low water pressure can cause your shower to have reduced water flow, your toilets to flush weakly, and your dishwasher and washing machine to take longer to fill up. It can also lead to water hammer, a phenomenon where the water rushing through pipes causes them to vibrate, resulting in loud banging sounds. Water hammer can cause damage to your pipes and even lead to leaks.

Furthermore, a water main break can cause sediment and debris to be forced into your home's plumbing system, which can clog pipes, damage valves, and even cause burst pipes. This can lead to costly repairs and even the need for a complete plumbing system replacement.

In conclusion, a water main break in your town can have significant effects on your home's plumbing system. It can cause low water pressure, water hammer, clogged pipes, and even burst pipes. It is essential to take immediate action to protect your home's plumbing system when a water main break occurs. If you experience any problems with your home's plumbing after a water main break, Cronin Plumbing and Heating can help you to assess the situation and make any necessary repairs.