Precautions For Water Leaks

What are the precautions to take when discovering a leak in my home?

There are some precautions that the homeowner can take when discovering a leak from a water pipe in the home, but beware that any plumbing issue is never a DIY project. The first indication that there may be a water pipe leak somewhere in the home is an increase in the homeowner’s monthly water bill. If the increase in water usage is significant, the homeowner should call their plumber for a consult as to their plumbing, especially if the pipes are within a wall of the home.

Unless the leak is coming from the sewer pipeline and sewer water is backing up into the home there are no valves to shut off. In this case, the homeowner needs to take the precaution of not running additional water into the sewer system such as not flushing any toilets, running any water in the sinks or running the washing machine.

All of these sources only put more water into the sewer line and this water will back up into the house. The homeowner will then have a raw sewage mess that can end up costing more money because of the necessary cleanup and possible damage to the home’s structure.

Every homeowner should trust their plumbing needs and especially water leaks to a trusted, qualified and licensed plumber, in order to assure that the work done is top notch and the leak in that specific spot does not happen again. Once the homeowner shuts off the main water valve assuring that no more water is flowing into the sewer line, call your plumber.

Why is it important to fix a leak issue?

The homeowner who has their water pipes in plain view throughout their home can monitor all pipes for leaks. However, some homeowners have their water pipes behind walls. Sometimes water leaks can go unnoticed for weeks until the damage to the home’s wood structure is done before the homeowner even has a clue about a water leak.

The first indication that there may be a water pipe leak somewhere in the home is an increase in the homeowner’s monthly water bill. If the increase in water usage is significant, the homeowner should call their plumber for a consult as to their plumbing, especially if the pipes are within a wall of the home.

A water leak can eat away and rot the homes, floor supports and other main wood structures of the home, weakening the home’s stability. A water leak can cause mold, mildews, germs and harmful bacteria to build up in the home causing a health hazard for the occupants in the home. When these substances mixed with the air, the occupants breathe cause chronic respiratory infections.

Is there a pesky leak troubling you? Call Eagle Plumbing and Heating today at (360) 318-9999 for quick and effective leak repair services in the Bellingham area.