What do I do when I notice a leak?
As another cold winter with freezing temperatures came to an end here in the area, many homeowners discovered they had busted water pipes that were leaking. Of course, immediate leak repairs were made, and all was well again. But winter isn’t the only time a homeowner may discover a water leak. So what should you do when you find yourself in need of leak repair? In Allen, TX, you can always come to us, but there are a few other steps you can take while you’re waiting for help to arrive.
Where do water leaks commonly happen in a house?
There are multiple places in your home that may need leak repairs, but the five most common places are:
- The Faucets: The faucets are THE most common place for water leaks and are usually one of the easiest leak repairs. When you hear that annoying drip, drip, drip sound, you can hear dollars going down the drain too. Not only is this increasing the water bill and wasting a natural resource, but that excess water is damaging the bathtub, shower, and sinks by causing rust and premature decay, along with mildew and mold.
- The Shower: The bathroom is a high-traffic area in every home with the toilet, sink, and shower being used every day, often multiple times a day. For a shower with a flexible shower head and hose, the hose is susceptible to corrosion which will cause it to start leaking. This leak repair is as easy as replacing the flexible shower head and hose.
- The Toilet Flapper: It is estimated that more than 30% of all homes in this country have a leaking toilet. Toilet leaks are easily identified, no need to call for the professional leak repair service of a plumber! Simply listen for hissing water sounds or add some food color inside the tank. If the water in the toilet bowl changes colors, then you need to replace the flapper inside the tank.
- The Water Heater: A leaking water heater can become bad news fast if a leak repair isn’t done ASAP. Check the water connection on top of the tank, making sure they are tight, then do the same with the water connection at the wall. If the water heater tank itself is leaking from the sides or underneath, call for emergency plumbing service for a leak repair, and be prepared to hear “You need a new water heater”.
- Water Supply Line: Not all leaks will occur inside the house. If you’re noticing puddles of water in the lawn or sections that are greener than the rest of the lawn, you either have a water line leak or a sewer line leak. Either way, you need a professional leak repair service, and be prepared to find out it isn’t just a leaking water line you’re having to deal with.
- The Hose Bib: Hose bibs may leak near the handle spout or other connection point. Worn-out washers or seals often cause the leak, which may require a hose bib replacement.
What is the best thing to use to stop a leak?
Turning the water off at the main should be the first thing you do to stop a water leak. Then either look for where the leak may be located or call a plumber. If you’re a handy person with basic tools, you can do your own small leak repairs using a plumber’s putty.
This is an ideal material for leak repairs of pinholes or around a fitting joint. You can get this at any hardware store or home improvement store. Keep checking this spot so that if it starts leaking again, you may need a professional plumber.
How can you tell where a water leak is coming from?
The water bill indicates you may have a water leak, but finding where that leak can be a challenge. Well, common sense tells us to look in the most obvious places first. Open all the cabinets where water lines are running, usually under the sinks, and look for dripping or standing water, mildew, mold or if you notice any foul odors, this is where your leak repair is needed.
If you don’t find anything inside the cabinets, behind the washing machine, or near the water heater, then walk around and check the outdoor spigots. If there isn’t any leak there, you’ll need to call a plumber. They have equipment and tools and they can get to the source of the problem with leak detection services. Remember that leak repairs may be simple, or if they are located out of the way they may require more work such as digging up a section of the lawn.
In Closing
In many cases, what a plumber does for leak repairs is use the plumber’s putty, but they also can replace the pipe if necessary. If you have PVC pipes, you can do your own leak repair by cutting out the damaged pipe and replacing it with a new piece of PVC and PVC glue, which is what the plumber will do too. But if the leak is hidden inside the walls or under the floor, it is best to leave these leak repairs to the professionals!
Whether you attempt to do your own leak repairs or have it done professionally, timing is essential! Getting it done as quickly as possible will save you money on the water bill and hopefully escape needing any expensive structural repairs because of water damage. And always remember – when you need leak repair in Allen, TX or the surrounding area, we can be there for you. Give us a call at 469-253-5530 if you need a consultation.
