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What Should You Do if You Have a Leaky Pipe?

VWB Blog 1 year ago 6

One study found that the average family wastes 180 gallons of water per week.

Leaks happen all the time. This year has seen many water systems worldwide hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. With the pandemic over, leaks can be a problem.

Leaky pipes can account for a big portion of that wasted water. It can also lead to increased water bills and higher bills from the sewer treatment plant. If you’ve got a leaky pipe, you want to get on it immediately.

This article will give tips on what to do if you have a leaking pipe.

Turn Off Your Main Water Supply

If you have a leaky pipe, you should take the necessary steps to turn off the main water supply to your home. This will stop the water supply temporarily to your plumbing fixtures and appliances so that you can take adequate time to fix the pipe.

Shutting off the main water supply will also help protect your property from additional water damage caused by the leak. Before turning off the supply, you may consider shutting off the water sink valves within the house if it’s a single-valve shutoff.

After successfully shutting off the water supply, the next step would be to patch or replace the leaky pipe completely. Taking the right steps to turn off your main water supply and fix the water pipe as soon as possible can save your property from further damage.

Check the Pipe and Surrounding Area

It is crucial to check the pipe and surrounding area. Start by locating the pipe and noting how it is connected. Check the pipe’s joints, seals, and any other areas that could be leaking. Look closely for signs of malfunctions in the connection, such as rust or cracks.

Test the pipe for any signs of leaking, such as dampness and discoloration. Check the surrounding area for increased water levels, water-damaged items nearby, and other signs of a leaking pipe.

Ensure the area is stable, secure, and free of any obstructions that may disrupt repairs. Once the source and extent of the leak are addressed, suitable repair procedures will follow. To ensure proper maintenance, inspect the entire plumbing system of your home regularly.

Decide How to Fix the Leak

Determine if you need to replace the entire pipe or just a section. If it’s a small leaky pipe, many do-it-yourself solutions are available. You can use a plumbing repair epoxy putty to patch up small holes, or you may need to use clamps or a pipe clamp to keep the leaking area from busting open.

If the pipe is big and you don’t feel confident repairing it, it’s best to consult a professional plumber to help.

If a washer on the end of the pipe is leaking, you can replace it using a wrench or plumber’s putty. To finish the repair, the pipe may need to be re-soldered or sealed with caulk to ensure the leak is gone.

Call in a Professional Plumber

Calling a professional plumber is the best action when the pipe is leaking. Do not attempt to fix the pipe yourself if you are not experienced in plumbing. Calling for help from an experienced plumber is the safest and most reliable route.

In addition to repairing the pipe, they can help you identify the source and source of the leak and recommend ways to prevent future leaks. It’s recommended to seek the help of professional plumbing services near me if the problem is too complicated to fix.

A professional plumber can also advise you on maintaining your plumbing properly to avoid future leaks. If the plumber cannot come quickly, cleaning up any existing water and drying the area to prevent mold growth is important.

In addition to saving you time, a professional plumber can save you money in the long run by ensuring the leak is fixed quickly and correctly.

Apply a Waterproof Sealant to the Pipe

If you find a crack or break, you can use a pipe repair kit and sealant to patch the hole. Before applying the sealant, ensure the area is thoroughly prepared and clean so the sealant can adhere properly.

Apply a generous sealant to the affected area, ensuring it is evenly spread and goes at least two inches beyond the boundaries of the holes and cracks. Once the sealant has dried, turn the water back on and check for leaks. If the sealant was properly applied, the leak should stop, and the pipe should be watertight.

Take Steps to Minimize Any Future Damage

When a pipe starts to leak, it is important to take the steps necessary to minimize any future damage. First, turn off the main water supply to the house. This will stop the water from continuing to leak and help prevent further damage.

Also, if possible, determine the cause of the leak and what steps can be taken to ensure it does not happen again. This can include replacing the pipe or repairing any fixtures or connections. Taking the time to take these steps can help minimize any future damage due to a leaking pipe.

Choose the Best Solution for Long-Term Repairs

When a pipe begins to leak, the best solution for long-term repairs is to replace it. It is important to ensure that the pipe is the right size and material for the job.

Also, don’t neglect the drain traps, as these are an important part of the plumbing and should be checked for signs of clogging. Finally, choose the best solution for long-term repairs; often, the most cost-effective and long-term solution is not the least expensive.

Get the Right Fix for a Leaky Pipe

To stop leaks and prevent further damage, it’s important to act quickly when you notice a leaky pipe. Contact a plumber who can assess the damage and repair your pipes, or take the necessary steps yourself to fix the pipes and stop further damage.

Remember to take precautionary steps to ensure safety. Take the initiative today and get those plumbing issues fixed!

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