Protect Your Plumbing

I have had to deal with a few different leaks in my life time. If you are a home owner then you most likely know what to do when you find one. The cost of allowing a leak to continue is not something you want to see. So what do you do when you find a Leak??

Firs you will want to know where your home's main water shut off valve is located. This is where you will want to go if you find a leak. Quickly turn off the water to the entire house. 

If not present you may want to install shut off valves at individual appliances and fixtures. This will allow you to cut off water in that area but allow water to continue to keep flowing in other areas. With a little knowledge this is something you may be able to do yourself rather than hiring a plumber. 

A flow sensor is something else you may want. The detect plumbing leaks and automatically shuts off water to the entire house or a specific appliance. This is a rather expensive sensor though. 

Spring is coming and I am sure that many of us will be using outdoor spigots When the weather turns cold again do not forget to remove the hose. This will help prevent frozen water from cracking the pipes and causing plumbing leaks that may lead to a flood. Frost free hose bibs or pumps are available as well. 

In cold parts of your house install pipe insulation to prevent plumbing in garages, basements, and crawl spaces from freezing and hurting pipes. This also allows a shorter wait time for hot water. This is fairly inexpensive to do and can be done without a plumber. 

Keep exposed pipes free from hanging items. Hanging rods or storing clothes on these can loosen joints and fasteners and lead to plumbing leaks. In the same manner do not overload vanities and sink cabinets as doing so can jostle water pipes and drains, loosen connections and cause plumbing leaks. Leaks in these areas if overcrowded may be unable to spot before too late. 

If problems do occur in plumbing in your home it should be fixed quickly and correctly Small leaks can make pipes corrode more quickly and cause significant water damage and/or mold. Keep your eyes on spouts and pipes routinely.