A plumbing leak and the water damage repair or mold cleanup that comes after it is costly. If repair is slow, you will have to live without water for days. Luckily, there are many ways you can avoid this inconvenience. Here are some techniques you can use to prevent water damage like leakage from happening.
Secure hose connections.
Appliances can produce condensation and rust through time. When this happens, there’s a higher chance of leaking. The leak can also come from damaged water supply hoses on dishwashers and washing machines. Avoid this by making sure the hose connections are securely attached to the water supply lines. If you see signs of bulging, cracking, or deterioration, replace the hose.
Check sink, shower, and tub regularly.
Even though your sink, shower, and tub have been constructed perfectly, they can still break over time. If they are more than 5 years old, it’s time for you to regularly check them. If you find any suspicious dents, don’t hesitate to re-caulk or re-grout.
Follow maintenance procedures.
Every equipment and appliance come with a recommended maintenance guide, which you can find in the manufacturer’s manual. For instance, there’s a need for periodical draining of water from the water heater. Be sure to follow the manual. You will increase the lifespan of your appliance.
Maintain air conditioner.
To maintain your air conditioner, you might need to contact a qualified HVAC contractor. The AC’s pan drain lines need to be cleared from any deposits which can clog the line and cause leaks.
Trickle water during winter.
In winter, the pipes can burst, freeze, and damage the overall plumbing system. You can avoid frozen pipes if you let water trickle down from both the cold and hot faucets. You can also open cabinet doors so that the heat can get to the pipes under the sink.
Use pipe insulation.
One of the most effective ways to avoid frozen pipes is pipe insulation. You can insulate the water pipes exposed to the freezing temperature, particularly those found in the basement and garage. Pipe insulation tubes do not cost much.
Activate leak detection system.
Leak detection systems generate an alarm whenever there’s a cause for one. They can also stop the water flow automatically. Some features included in them are a shutoff valve and a moisture sensor that will determine whether or not there is a leak. There are systems that use a timer and a flow sensor that functions like the moisture sensor. You can activate a leak detection system on an individual appliance or on the whole property.
Clear sink cabinets.
Don’t put too much stuff in your cabinets. You might end up jostling the water supply drains and pipes, loosen connections, and cause plumbing leaks.
Install shut-off valve.
A shut-off valve on individual appliances allows you to keep the water flowing in unaffected areas of the house while you repair the problem.
Final Thoughts
It’s better to proactive when it comes to dealing with plumbing problems. However, if the problem has already arisen, the best move to take is to contact an expert plumber right away.