Water damage incurs billions of dollars in repairs every year for households in the U.S. A water leak can increase your utility bills and ruin your valuables. Here are some tips for dealing with a water leak in your Montgomery home.
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
If you detect a leak, the first step is to turn off the main water supply. Turning off the fixture will prevent water damage that can trigger microbial growth. Even a dripping water fixture is enough to cause rotting and corrosion.
You will first need to locate the meter, which is usually at the front of your property. The main may also be inside the house in a laundry room or basement.
Depending on its age, the valve will either be a gate valve or a ball valve. Turning the lever clockwise will stop the water supply.
2. Open All the Faucets
After turning off the water supply, open all the faucets to let the water run out. Opening the faucets will relieve the pressure that is in the pipes.
Despite its mild winters, Montgomery occasionally experiences frost temperatures that can burst pipes. As water freezes, it expands and can crack or rupture the piping.
It is wise to shut off the water main to prevent ice from accumulating in the pipes. According to Alabama Home Pros, taking immediate action can prevent damage that may require re-piping your Montgomery home.
3. Examine Parts of Your Plumbing for Leaks and Corrosion
After opening the faucets, take time to examine your plumbing for leaks. Leaks can also trigger corrosion in your plumbing. Be sure to look out for signs of rusting on faucets and water fixtures.
If it’s only one fixture leaking, you can turn the main water supply back on. Make sure you examine the rest of your plumbing for dripping faucets and leaky pipes. One dripping faucet can waste thousands of gallons of water annually.
4. Fix the Leak Immediately
You need to address leaks as soon as you spot them. You can fix some issues by tightening the nut on fixtures or replacing the faucet’s components.
However, if you spot multiple leaks, it is often an indication of a chronic plumbing problem. It could be an issue with high water pressure or aging pipes that need replacing.
The best way to determine the source of the problem is to schedule an assessment of your plumbing system. A certified plumber can diagnose your plumbing and detect issues at their earliest stages. An inspection could prevent water wastage and save you hundreds of dollars in utility bills.
Whether it’s a dripping faucet or a burst pipe, prompt action is crucial in preventing water damage. Keep an eye on your plumbing system, and talk to a professional when in doubt. You can rely on Alabama Home Pros for timely plumbing services in Montgomery.