Burst water pipes can cause serious damage to any property, so it's important to understand what causes them and take the necessary steps to prevent them. The most common causes of burst water pipes are extreme temperature changes, ground movement, corrosion, and age. Extreme temperature changes can cause pipes to expand and contract which can create cracks in the pipe walls leading to leaks or complete breaks. Ground movement from earthquakes or improper installation can also lead to pipe breaks. Corrosion happens when metal pipes come into contact with oxygen and moisture over time, weakening the metal and making it more prone to bursting. Finally, age is another factor that should be taken into consideration as older pipes are more likely to burst due to wear and tear over time. Proper care and maintenance of your pipes can help reduce the likelihood of them bursting; however, if you experience a burst pipe it’s essential that you call a professional plumber immediately in order to avoid extensive damage. Taking preventative measures to avoid future burst pipes is crucial to maintain a safe and healthy home. Installing sturdy, quality pipes can help prevent the risk of bursting, while regular inspections can detect any underlying issues before it becomes a costly problem. With regular maintenance, homeowners can also easily spot any potential blockages that could lead to bursts over time. If the damage is already done, replacing old or corroded pipes with new ones should be a top priority. In addition, sealing any gaps around the pipe with an appropriate sealant will help reduce the risk of future bursts. Proper insulation of exposed pipes is also essential in preventing water from freezing and causing them to burst during cold weather conditions. By taking these measures and following best practices for pipe maintenance, homeowners can save themselves time and money by avoiding costly repairs due to burst water pipes. When it comes to repairing a burst water pipe, the first step is locating the source of the damaged pipe. This can be a challenging task, as it may require complex plumbing repairs, depending on the severity of the damage and the location of the burst. To find the source of a burst pipe, you will need to take an in-depth look at your home's plumbing system. Start by examining any visible signs of water damage in order to determine where the leak is coming from, as this will provide clues about where to look for potential sources of damage. You should also check for leaks at connections between pipes, as well as around fixtures such as sinks and toilets. Once you have identified where the leak may be coming from, you can use specialized tools and techniques to locate and repair the broken pipe. When assessing the extent of a burst pipe, it's important to consider certain factors, such as the length and condition of the pipe and the severity of the damage. For example, if the pipe is severely damaged, it may require more time for repair. Additionally, if the pipe is longer than normal or located in an area that is difficult to access, this can also increase repair time. It's also important to consider any other damage that may have been caused by the burst pipe - such as water damage to walls and ceilings - which may need to be addressed during repair. Lastly, depending on where you live, local regulations and codes may come into play when determining how long repairs will take. All of these factors should be considered when assessing how long it will take to repair a burst water pipe.What Are Common Causes Of Burst Pipes?
Preventative Measures To Avoid Future Burst Pipes
Locating The Source Of A Burst Pipe
Assessing The Extent Of A Burst Pipe
Temporary Fixes For Burst Pipes
If you find yourself dealing with a burst water pipe, there are a few temporary fixes you can do until the plumber arrives and repairs the damage. First, you should turn off the main water supply and open all faucets to release any remaining pressure and stop water from flowing out of the pipe.
Then, if possible, drain out any standing water around the affected pipe. Next, use a piece of cloth or rubber to cover up the hole in the pipe.
This will at least temporarily keep further water from leaking out until a professional can properly repair it. If the leak is particularly bad, you may also want to place buckets underneath the affected area to collect any dripping water that escapes through your makeshift patch.
Regardless of what type of fix you choose, it's important to remember that these are only temporary solutions; they won't restore full performance or fix all underlying issues associated with burst pipes and should only be used as an emergency solution until a professional arrives and repairs them correctly.
Strategies For Accessing And Fixing Hard-to-reach Bursts Pipes

It is not always easy to access and fix burst pipes in hard-to-reach places. Yet, it is important to do so as quickly as possible to avoid further damage.
One strategy for being able to access and fix burst pipes is to use a flexible hose that can reach the pipe without having to move any walls or other obstacles. Another strategy is to use a hand snake, which can be inserted into the pipe and pushed through until it reaches the break.
Once the location of the break has been identified, the pipe can then be cut out with a hacksaw and replaced with a new one. Another option is to use an epoxy putty that can be molded around the break in order to seal it off temporarily until a permanent fix can be made.
In all cases, it's important for qualified professionals like plumbers or handymen to undertake such repairs in order to ensure that they are done correctly and safely.
How To Shut Off Water During A Burst Pipe Emergency
In any emergency situation involving a burst water pipe, it is essential to shut off the water supply as quickly as possible. Knowing how to turn off the main water valve can help prevent further damage and costly repairs.
The process of shutting off the water supply will vary depending on the type of plumbing system in your home or business. For older homes with copper pipes, you may have an individual shut-off valve for each fixture; however, many newer homes have just one main shut-off valve located near where the main line enters your home.
If you are unable to locate the main shut-off valve, you may need to contact a plumber or your local utility company for assistance. Once the water has been shut off, you should call a plumber right away to assess the damage and start repairs.
Taking quick action can help reduce repair time and costs.
Preparing For The Repair Of A Burst Pipe

Before a burst pipe can be repaired, it is important to be prepared. This preparation should include shutting off the water supply to the area of the burst pipe, draining the pipes and removing and storing any items that could be damaged or in the way during repair.
Additionally, it is essential to inspect for any underlying damage and make sure all necessary parts are on hand before beginning repairs. After these preparations have been made, a plumber can begin assessing the best course of action for fixing the issue.
Once they have determined an appropriate solution, they can start repairing the broken pipe so that everything is back in working order as soon as possible.
Professional Assistance In Fixing A Burst Pipe
Calling a professional plumber is one of the best ways to repair a burst water pipe quickly and efficiently. Plumbers have the necessary experience, tools, and equipment to properly assess and fix the problem.
Before they begin work on a burst pipe, they will inspect the entire system to determine where and why the pipe burst. This may involve digging up part of the pipe that is buried in your yard or running tests to check for clogs or corrosion.
Once they have identified the source of the issue, they can get to work on fixing it. Depending on how severe the damage is, they may need to replace all or part of the pipe with new materials, put in additional supports, or use specialized connections and seals.
In any case, experienced plumbers are trained to know exactly what needs to be done in order to ensure your pipes are properly repaired and won't burst again anytime soon.
Appropriate Use Of Plumbing Tools During Repairs

Using the right plumbing tools is essential when repairing burst water pipes. Having the right wrench to shut off the main valve and turn on the water after repairs are complete is a must.
Plumbers also use pipe cutters to cut through existing pipes and fittings, faucet sockets to remove nuts that secure faucets, tubing cutters for copper pipe, adjustable spanners for tightening and loosening metal parts, and pliers to hold items in place while tightening or loosening them. Additionally, wrenches that fit different shapes of nuts and bolts may be used during repairs as well as hacksaws to cut metal pipes.
When working on larger pipes, a reciprocating saw or a power drill with an auger bit may be required. It is important that plumbers know how to operate each tool safely in order to avoid any potential harm during repairs.
Potential Structural Damage After A Pipe Has Bursts
When a pipe bursts, the water damage it can cause is immense and far-reaching. Not only is the area around the burst pipe likely to suffer water damage, but there is also a chance that the structural integrity of the building may be compromised.
Water can weaken walls and floors, leading to long-term problems such as cracking and sagging. If a pipe bursts in the ceiling, then there is a risk of collapse or failure due to weakened supports.
To prevent further damage, it’s important to assess any potential structural issues as soon as possible after a pipe has burst. This should be done before any repair work begins so that any issues can be addressed promptly and professionally.
Cost Considerations When Repairing A Burst Pipe

The cost of repairing a burst pipe depends on several factors, such as the severity of the damage, the extent of repairs needed, and the type of materials used. If you have a small crack in your pipe, it may be possible to fix it with a patch or sealant without having to replace any parts.
On the other hand, if you need to replace an entire section of the pipe due to severe damage, then it will cost more. Labor costs can also vary depending on how long it takes for a professional plumber to assess and repair the problem.
In addition, if you are using specialized materials or tools that are not available locally, then this could add to your overall repair bill. Furthermore, if your plumbing system is old and outdated, it might be necessary to upgrade some components in order to properly fix the issue.
Therefore, it is important to weigh all cost considerations before deciding how best to tackle a burst water pipe repair project.
Benefits Of Professional Leak Detection Services
Having a professional leak detection service come to your home to detect and repair burst water pipes can save you time, money, and stress. A quick response from reliable professionals can limit the extent of the damage caused by the burst pipe and minimize costs associated with repairs.
Experienced technicians have the knowledge and expertise to locate leaks quickly with specialized equipment such as infrared cameras, moisture meters, acoustic detectors, and pipeline locators. In addition, they are equipped to handle any size project from small residential homes to large commercial buildings.
Furthermore, these services are often more affordable than DIY repairs due to their experience in this field. With their help, you will be able to identify problems before they become too serious and costly as well as develop a plan for long-term maintenance.
Ultimately, using professional leak detection services is an investment that can keep your home or business safe while saving you time and money in the long run.
Dangers Associated With Diy Repairs On Burst Pipes

DIY repairs on burst pipes can be a dangerous undertaking and can result in even more damage if not done properly. Homeowners should always be aware of the risks before attempting to repair a burst pipe.
Without professional knowledge, even minor mistakes can lead to costly repairs down the line or, in extreme cases, flooding of the home. It's important to note that repairing a burst pipe requires specialized tools and materials that are not usually found in the average toolbox.
In some cases, the homeowner may not have access to these tools and materials, making DIY repairs impossible. Furthermore, without proper training and experience, it is difficult to determine how long it will take to successfully repair the burst pipe; this task is best left in the hands of a professional plumber who is experienced in handling such matters quickly and efficiently.
Environmental Impact Of Leaking Or Burst Pipes
Leaking or burst pipes can have a major environmental impact, from damaging our water supply to contaminating the surrounding soil and air. A leaking or burst pipe can cause huge amounts of water to be wasted, which is a precious resource that should be conserved.
Additionally, this waste water can carry pollutants into our waterways, affecting the quality of the water and potentially harming local plant and animal life. In some cases, polluted groundwater can even seep back into our drinking supply if not treated properly.
Repairing burst pipes quickly is essential for protecting the environment from further damage and ensuring that clean drinking water is available for all.
How Long Does It Take To Fix A Burst Pipe In A House?
Burst water pipes in a house can cause extensive damage and need to be fixed as soon as possible. But just how long does it take to repair burst water pipes? Depending on the severity of the pipe breakage, a repair job can take anywhere from an hour or two for minor breaks, to several days for more serious cases.
Professionals must first assess the damage and then determine the best way to fix the broken pipe. This may involve dismantling affected parts of a wall or floor and replacing them with new piping.
If there is significant damage, such as flooding or mold growth, additional time may be needed to clean up the area before repairs can begin. In some cases, the repairs may have to be done by licensed plumbers in order to meet local building codes and ensure that plumbing issues are properly addressed.
Despite all these variables, most burst pipe repairs will be completed within a few days at most. Homeowners should take precautions such as turning off their main water valve and calling in professionals when they notice suspicious signs of any kind of water damage.
How Long Does It Take For Pipes To Be Fixed?

Repairing burst water pipes is a time-sensitive job that needs to be done as quickly and efficiently as possible. Depending on the severity of the pipe damage, it can take anywhere from several hours to a few days for the repair work to be completed.
If the damage is minor, such as a leaky joint or small hole, it can often be fixed in an hour or two. However, if there is extensive corrosion or broken sections of pipe, then the repair could take longer.
In any case, the plumber will have to assess the situation before they can give an accurate timeline for repair completion. To ensure that a burst pipe is taken care of swiftly and correctly, it's best to call a professional plumber who has experience with this type of job.
They'll know how long it should realistically take for them to complete their repairs and will be able to provide you with an estimate of when you can expect your pipes back in working order.
How Expensive Is It To Fix A Burst Pipe?
The cost of repairing a burst pipe can vary greatly depending on the cause and location of the leak. If it is an easy fix, such as a loose fitting or valve that needs to be tightened, then the repair could be relatively inexpensive.
If however, there is more extensive damage, such as corrosion of pipes or a broken connection to a main line, then the cost can quickly rise. Factors such as access to the damaged pipes and ease of repair also influence the cost of repairs.
Depending on these factors, it can be anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars to repair burst water pipes.
How Serious Is A Pipe Burst?
A burst pipe is a serious issue that can cause significant damage to your home and lead to expensive repairs. Water damage from a burst pipe can be devastating, leading to warped floors, damaged furniture, and even structural damage.
Without prompt attention, the water damage will only get worse. Depending on where the pipe burst occurred, you may need to call in professionals for assistance.
A plumber will assess the situation and determine how long it will take to repair the burst pipe. In some cases, it could take several days or more to make necessary repairs.
That’s why it’s important to act quickly if you detect a burst pipe in order to minimize property damage and ensure safe living conditions.
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FAQs
How long does it take for burst water pipes to be fixed? ›
The length of time taken to repair the water main can vary, and there are so many factors that play apart, but most are fixed within three hours.
How long does it take to replace the water pipes in the house? ›How Long Does the Process Take? Repiping can take anywhere from two or three days to a week, depending on the size of your home and the number of bathrooms. Your water service will be off during some of this time, so be sure to speak with your plumber about minimizing water disruptions.
How long does it take for pipes to be fixed? ›Depending upon the size and amount of damage to the pipes, repair can take several hours. For a short fix, it could take approximately anywhere from 2-4 hours.
What happens in a house when pipes burst? ›A burst pipe will send water flooding into your home. Locate the main water supply and shut it off to stop the flow of water, preventing additional damage. Leave the faucets on to fully drain the pipe and relieve any remaining pressure, and flush all toilets.
Is it cold enough for pipes to burst? ›So, the question is: just how cold does it have to be for pipes to burst? Your pipes are at risk of freezing any time temperatures drop below 32°F. However, it's much more common for pipes to freeze when temperatures dip below 20°F.
Can you replace all the pipes in a house? ›The difference is that some plumbing companies might only replace the visible piping to reduce costs. However, it is often best to replace the entire plumbing system all at once, as old pipes might be more prone to leaks and other issues that could raise your costs in the long term.
How long does the average home water line last? ›Depending upon what the pipe is made of, water lines will usually last anywhere from 20 to 100 years. Many people will live in the same home for decades without even knowing where the line is located!
Is it worth it to Repipe a house? ›Repiping can increase the value of your home.
Replacing those pipes also mitigates the chances of a plumbing leak disaster, which could definitely decrease the value of your house. Older pipes may break which causes a leak, and in turn, water damage that may not be noticed right away.
- Copper Pipes: 70-80 years.
- Brass Pipes: 80-100 years.
- Galvanized Steel Pipes: 80-100 years.
A burst pipe is usually the result of changes in temperature. When water freezes in a pipe, it can expand inside the pipe and cause it to burst. The pipe then begins to leak when the water thaws out.
What do bursting pipes sound like? ›
Metallic sounds like clangs and rattles are common when a pipe bursts. Water shakes the pipe when a burst occurs, so you hear more noises from the pipes when it bursts. Most of the time, new pipes are silent, so listen for changes if you notice any of the other signs.
Is a burst water pipe an emergency? ›If you suspect a water leak, you should contact a professional plumber as soon as possible. Don't delay – ignoring a leak can lead to more damage to your property. If you have a leaking or burst pipe in your home, you should turn off your water immediately.
How much water can leak from a broken pipe? ›If a standard half-inch pipe breaks and no one is home, in just a few hours there can be up to 10,000 gallons of water spilled. A refrigerator water line typically flows at ½ to 1 gallon per minute (depending on water pressure). A leak can lose up to 700 – 1,400 gallons of water in 24 hours.
How do you force water out of pipes? ›- Shut Off the Water Valve. Shut off the main water valve at the water meter.
- Open the Sink Faucets. Starting at the top floor, open all the sink faucets. ...
- Open the Faucet in the Laundry Tub. ...
- Open the Tub or Shower Faucets. ...
- Flush All Toilets. ...
- Leave the Faucets in the Open Position.
Allow appliances and sockets to air dry, and remove any wet furniture or carpets from the area. Open windows to let the humidity out. Check your walls too – any drywall or other material that has been affected will need to be removed and replaced.
What temperature should you leave the house so pipes dont burst? ›Regardless of how long you will be traveling and away from home, keep your thermostat set at 68 degrees Fahrenheit or above. This will help to keep the pipes on the inside of the home from freezing and the ones under the home at a slightly higher temperature as well.
How do I claim a burst pipe? ›- Make emergency repairs. Temporary repairs can protect your home from further damage. ...
- Document the damage. ...
- Contact your home insurance company. ...
- Wait for the insurance adjuster.
The rule of the thumb is that it takes roughly 6-hours for water in your pipe to freeze after left in an unheated area. Meaning if you lose power at your home and the weather is reaching below freezing point, you have approximately 6-hours until the pipes will begin to freeze.
Where do pipes usually burst? ›Pipes that are the most at risk of bursting are those that are exposed: located outside of building insulation, or in unheated interior areas like basements, attics and crawl spaces.
What temp can house pipes burst? ›This finding was supported by a survey of 71 plumbers practic- ing in southern states, in which the consensus was that burst- pipe problems began to appear when temperatures fell into the teens. However, freezing incidents can occur when the tem- perature remains above 20 degrees F.
Can you replumb a house without removing walls? ›
If however you are able to cut off the pipes at the top and the bottom, and find that they will move freely, you can succeed in replacing them without opening the wall. The trick is to get the new pipe to follow the path of the old pipe.
Why is repiping a house so expensive? ›House size and number of stories: To completely repipe a larger house, additional labor and piping materials are necessary to install the new plumbing system, increasing the cost. When replumbing a multi-story home, cost increases further when demolishing walls to replace vertical pipes.
What is the best material to repipe a house? ›For whole-house repiping, the choice usually comes down to copper or PEX (cross-linked polyethylene). This plastic piping is durable and less expensive than copper. PEX is easy to install, which means the cost of installation may be low as well.
How deep is the main water line to my house? ›Water supply lines connect the household plumbing to the local mains water supply or sometimes to a well in rural areas. The lines run at least 3 feet below ground, which can make them difficult to find.
What is the best water line inside a house? ›Copper pipes remain popular among plumbers and homeowners alike because they are corrosion-resistant and best suited to protect the quality of the water. Copper pipes are able to handle high water pressure and are tolerant of both hot and cold water temperatures.
What is the longest lasting water line? ›Brass, cast iron, and galvanized steel have a lifespan of up to 100 years, copper can last over 50 years, and PEX and PVC usually last around 50 years.
What is the best pipe to replumb a house? ›Copper. Copper is the standard and the most prevalent piping material for home plumbing applications. Its strength, durability, flexibility, resistance to corrosion, and ability to tolerate heat makes it a perfect choice to replace iron and steel pipes.
How do I prepare my house for repiping? ›Getting The House Ready For The Repipe Specialist
You will need to cover your furniture and other items around the area to keep them from getting coated. You will also need to remove any items from the areas under your sinks, such as cleaners from under the kitchen sink and personal care items from the bathroom sink.
Cost to Install or Replace Plumbing Pipes
Rough-in plumbing for new construction costs $8,000 to $12,000 or $4.50 per square foot for an average 2,000-square-foot home with 2 or 3 bathrooms. Repiping an existing home the same size runs $3,100 to $5,500 on average, or $0.40 to $2.00 per linear foot.
Repipe will usually consist of all water lines in the home all lines two each plumbing fixture. New hose connections. All new valves under sinks and toilets. New supply lines.
Should I Repipe or remodel first? ›
Re-piping your home before remodeling will prevent the chance of a pipe leaking behind a new wall or appliance and causing damage that requires drywall repair.
How long does it take to replace a pipe in the wall? ›To replace a pipe, the length of time taken will depend on a number of factors, such as how accessible the pipe is, how much excavation or demolition will be required, and how many areas need to be fixed. It could be as little as a few hours, up to more than a day.
At what pressure do pipes burst? ›Cold Temperatures Cause Pipes to Burst
Below 32, water begins to freeze, and when water freezes, it expands. Freezing water can exert pressure between 25,000 to 114,000 psi and easily rupture a pipe.
A leak is a small hole, crack or rupture in a pipe that allows some water to continue to leak.. In such a case, you will notice that small amounts of water are left flowing out through the hole in the pipe. A burst pipe is a situation where the pipe has a wide opening that allows the water to flow out of it freely.
Can a burst pipe cause fire? ›Your pipes can secretly start fire in case of a hidden leak somewhere in your plumbing system. There is a possibility that the water could seep into an area with electric wiring. The water could create sparks that could start a fire in case if the wiring's insulation is damaged.
How do you know if a pipe bursts in the wall? ›- Skyrocketing Water Bill. Has your water bill suddenly gone up for no apparent reason? ...
- A Drop in Water Pressure. ...
- Water Damage. ...
- Whistling Pipes. ...
- Dirty Water. ...
- Stinky Smells. ...
- Soft Spots in Your Yard.
Gurgling, hissing, banging and clanging are all noises your water pipes shouldn't be making. If you're pipes have suddenly become noisy there is a reason, and that reason could be a warning that they are about to burst.
What do burst pipes look like? ›Discolored, Smelly Water
Over time, an undiscovered burst pipe will rust. The rust particles give the water a brownish tint. Additionally, the rust sets up a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause significant health issues.
Water companies are responsible for the maintenance of communication pipes and mains which includes leak detection, repairs and replacement where necessary.
Do you lose water pressure when a pipe bursts? ›A leak in your pipe will cause some of your water flow to be diverted away from your shower, faucet, or appliance. This could lead to a decrease in water pressure. In severe cases, you may even find yourself without any flowing water at all.
Does home insurance cover water damage from leaking pipe? ›
Homeowners insurance may help cover damage caused by leaking plumbing if the leak is sudden and accidental, such as if a washing machine supply hose suddenly breaks or a pipe bursts. However, homeowners insurance does not cover damage resulting from poor maintenance.
What happens when water pipes burst in house? ›A burst pipe will send water flooding into your home. Locate the main water supply and shut it off to stop the flow of water, preventing additional damage. Leave the faucets on to fully drain the pipe and relieve any remaining pressure, and flush all toilets.
How many gallons of water is lost to leaks? ›The average household's leaks can account for nearly 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year and ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day.
How many gallons of water are in a house pipe? ›An average home has 125 feet of 3/4 inch pipe. This holds 3.14 gallons of water. If hot water is used 10 times per day, 31 gallons of water is wasted running the faucets/shower to get the hot water.
How are burst pipes repaired? ›A pipe repair clamp is the quickest way to stop water leaking from a burst pipe, and it doesn't need the pipe to be drained before it can be fitted. Some clamps are screwed on, whilst others are simply clamped on over the burst area. However, repair clamps should only be regarded as a temporary repair.
How many hours does it take for pipes to burst? ›Pipes are most likely to burst when exposed to below-freezing conditions for six hours or more, which can happen throughout winter and early spring. Burst pipes could lead to a disaster, bringing severe water damage to your home. To protect your plumbing this spring, follow our three tips to help prevent frozen pipes.
What is the difference between pipe leak and pipe burst? ›A leak is a small hole, crack or rupture in a pipe that allows some water to continue to leak.. In such a case, you will notice that small amounts of water are left flowing out through the hole in the pipe. A burst pipe is a situation where the pipe has a wide opening that allows the water to flow out of it freely.
Why do pipes suddenly burst? ›Blockages in pipes are the most common cause of pipes bursting. Stop the flow of water, which causes pressure buildup in pipelines. The pressure buildup expands the pipes and eventually causes them to burst. If you have a main pipe burst, it is best to call a plumber immediately.
What causes a water main to burst? ›As the ground around a pipe freezes and heats, the pipes expand and contract – sometimes causing a rupture. Pressure changes can also occur when fire hydrants are either opened or closed too quickly. This is called water hammer. When the pressure inside a water main changes, it can cause the pipe to burst.
When pipes burst is it loud? ›Weakened sections of pipe may burst with a loud “popping” sound similar to a car backfiring. Although property owners usually don't hear pipes bursting, if you do happen to notice this sound consider requesting the assistance of a water leak detection plumber.
What do pipes look like when they burst? ›
Puddles are a clear sign of a burst pipe. Small puddles in one area usually mean a leak, but large pools of water in multiple areas indicates a burst. These puddles often move across rooms or through walls. Burst pipes continuously leak water until the supply is off, so the puddle grows quickly.
How much water can fixing leaks save? ›Checking for Leaks
Fixing easily corrected household water leaks can save homeowners about 10 percent on their water bills. To check for leaks in your home, you first need to determine whether you're wasting water and then identify the source of the leak.
The overall volume of water being leaked has fallen by 216 million litres per day – enough to fill 86 Olympic size swimming pools – to 2,954 million litres.