The short answer
Stop the Water First
The very first step is to stop the flow. Locate the shutoff valve for your sprinkler system, usually near the water meter or where the main line enters your home. Turn it off completely. If you cannot find the valve or the break is in a hard-to-reach spot, shut off the main water supply to the house to prevent further flooding.
After the water is off, open nearby doors and windows for ventilation. Move furniture and valuables out of the wet area if you can do so safely. Keep electrical devices away from standing water.
Remove Standing Water
Use a wet/dry vacuum or a mop and bucket to remove as much water as possible. Work from the center of the spill outward to avoid pushing water into other rooms. Pay extra attention to carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture, as these soak up water quickly and can harbor mold if left damp.
For large amounts of water, you might need more powerful equipment. Local water damage pros have industrial extractors that pull water from deep in carpets and padding. If the water has spread into multiple rooms or soaked into drywall, professional extraction is usually the safest route.
- Turn off the sprinkler system valve
- Use a wet/dry vacuum for small spills
- Lift wet carpets and rugs if possible
- Place towels at doorways to block spread
- Move electronics away from water
- Open windows to speed drying
Dry Out the Area
Drying is critical to prevent mold and structural damage. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and air conditioning to pull moisture from the air. Aim for good airflow across all wet surfaces, including behind baseboards and under cabinets. Keep the drying process going for several days, not just a few hours.
If the water soaked into drywall, insulation, or wood framing, surface drying is not enough. Structural drying and dehumidification may be needed to draw moisture out from deep inside walls and floors. Pros use specialized equipment to monitor moisture levels and ensure the structure is truly dry.
Clean and Disinfect
Once the area is dry, clean all surfaces that came into contact with the water. Use a mild detergent and warm water to wash walls, floors, and hard surfaces. Then apply a disinfectant to kill bacteria and prevent mold growth. Pay attention to areas where water may have splashed, like light switches and outlets, but turn off power to those circuits first.
For upholstery, carpets, and drapes, professional cleaning is often the right option. Steam cleaning can sanitize fabrics and remove water stains. If the water sat for more than a day, mold may have started to grow, so consider replacing porous materials like drywall and insulation that cannot be fully dried.
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Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (479) 370-1500Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to dry out after a sprinkler break?
Drying time depends on the extent of the water and the materials affected. Surface drying with fans may take a day or two, but deep drying of walls and floors can take several days to a week. Professional dehumidification speeds the process and helps prevent mold.
Can I clean up the water myself?
For small, contained spills, yes. Use a wet/dry vacuum and fans. But if water has soaked into drywall, insulation, or large carpeted areas, professional extraction and drying are safer. Pros have equipment to remove hidden moisture and reduce mold risk.
What should I do with wet carpet and padding?
If the carpet is wet, try to lift it and remove the padding to dry separately. If the padding is soaked, it often needs to be replaced. Carpet can sometimes be saved with professional steam cleaning, but if mold develops, replacement is necessary.