FAQ: What Should I Not Do After a Pipe Bursts?

At Total Home Water Restoration, we’ve seen what happens when folks panic or wait too long after a burst or frozen pipe. The damage doesn’t just stop when the water does—especially if you do the wrong thing.

Here’s what you should absolutely avoid:

1. Don’t turn on ceiling fans or HVAC in wet areas.

Moving air might feel helpful, but in rooms with water-damaged ceilings or light fixtures, it’s dangerous. If your ceiling is sagging or wet, the last thing you want is more vibration that might bring it down.

2. Don’t use electrical outlets near the water.

Water and electricity don’t mix—ever. If there’s standing water or even soaked carpet or drywall near an outlet, shut the power off to that room from the breaker and call a pro. We check this first thing on every job.

3. Don’t wait to call for help.

Water damage spreads fast. Materials like drywall, insulation, and subflooring start breaking down in hours, not days. Mold spores can take hold in as little as 24-48 hours. Waiting just makes the repair bigger and more expensive. Our crews in Grove City and Columbus are available fast—because you don’t have time to waste.

4. Don’t assume it’s “dry enough.”

Just because something feels dry doesn’t mean it is. Water can stay trapped behind walls, under flooring, and inside ceiling cavities. That’s why we use moisture meters and thermal imaging to check for hidden damage. Let us confirm it’s actually dry before you start putting things back together.

What You Should Do Instead:

• Shut off your main water supply immediately.

• Kill power to affected areas if it’s safe to do so.

• Call a professional restoration contractor (we're licensed and IICRC certified).

• Take photos of the damage for your insurance.

• Stay safe and don’t go walking through soaked rooms without checking for hazards.

Serving Grove City, Columbus, and Surrounding Areas

If you’re in Hilliard, Dublin, Westerville, Worthington, Upper Arlington, or anywhere nearby—call us. We’ll get there fast, handle your insurance company if needed, and make sure your home is dried the right way.

From disaster to done right.
We fix it like it’s our own home.

Total Home Water Restoration
📍 4141 Hoover Rd, Grove City, OH 43123
📞 380-246-1837