- HEP Plumbing
- Burst Pipe

Burst Pipe
Burst Pipe | Emergency Plumbing | Plumbing | Sewanee
When a sudden freeze turns your Sewanee sanctuary into a cascading waterfall, HEP arrives faster than you can grab a bucket. Our local, background-checked pros are on call 24/7, arriving with fully stocked trucks and state-of-the-art leak-detection gear to stop the damage in its tracks. From cramped crawl spaces beneath historic cabins to modern dormitories near the Domain, we isolate the break, repair or replace the pipe, and restore water flow before bigger problems set in—all while keeping you informed at every step.
Because burst pipes don’t wait for business hours, neither do we. One call to HEP dispatches a courteous technician who respects your time, property, and budget, providing transparent pricing and a workmanship guarantee that lets you breathe easy. For Sewanee residents, students, and business owners alike, our reputation for rapid, reliable emergency plumbing service means you can put the towels away and get back to what matters most.
FAQs
What should I do first if a pipe bursts in my Sewanee home?
Immediately turn off your home’s main water shut-off valve to stop the flow of water and prevent further damage. Then, switch off electricity in affected areas if it’s safe to do so, and call our 24/7 emergency plumbing line. While you wait for our technician, open faucets to drain residual water and place buckets or towels to catch leaks.
How quickly can your emergency plumbers reach me in Sewanee?
We have an on-call crew stationed in the area, allowing us to reach most addresses in Sewanee within 60 minutes—often faster during regular traffic conditions. Our dispatch keeps you updated with real-time arrival estimates so you know exactly when help is coming.
Will my homeowner’s insurance cover a burst pipe repair?
In many cases, homeowner’s insurance covers sudden and accidental water damage from a burst pipe, including the cost of tearing out and replacing damaged plumbing and affected materials. Coverage varies by policy, so we recommend taking photos, documenting the incident, and contacting your insurer promptly. We can provide detailed invoices and speak directly with your adjuster if needed.
Can you perform a permanent repair on the first visit?
Yes. Our fully stocked service vans carry copper, PEX, and CPVC piping, fittings, pipe thawing equipment, and commercial-grade drying tools. In most burst-pipe scenarios, we can isolate the damaged section and complete a permanent repair in a single trip, then test the system for leaks before restoring water service.
How can I prevent pipes from bursting during Sewanee’s winter freezes?
• Insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces, basements, and exterior walls. • Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, using frost-proof hose bibs where possible. • Keep indoor temperatures at or above 55 °F, even when away. • On nights below 25 °F, let a trickle of warm water run from faucets furthest from the main. • Seal gaps around cable or plumbing penetrations to block cold drafts. We also offer whole-home winterization services if you need professional assistance.
What are the signs I have a hidden burst or leaking pipe?
Watch for unexplained spikes in your water bill, the sound of running water when fixtures are off, damp spots on ceilings or walls, reduced water pressure, or a musty odor. If you notice any of these, call us for leak detection. We use infrared cameras and acoustic sensors to locate hidden breaks before they cause major structural damage.