When leaks in your household plumbing are not found and corrected quickly, they can cause several problems including damage to flooring, walls, and furnishings. Leaks can also waste quite a bit of water, resulting in higher bills. It is estimated that a slow leak can easily waste thirty gallons of water each day. Here are a few tips for preventing plumbing leaks.
1. Check for Leaks in the Laundry Room
One of the most overlooked places when inspecting for leaks is the laundry room. A leak where the hoses connect to the washing machine can go unnoticed for quite some time, particularly if it is a small one. The water may drip onto the floor, and when the dryer is used, it evaporates it before running in front of the washer and dryer where you would notice a puddle. You should also check the condition of the hoses and replace them when they look worn out.
2. Preventing Plumbing Leaks Under Sinks
Look under the sink in your kitchen and bathroom for water leaks. It is a good idea to check the trap to make sure all the pipes are connected tightly. If the trap is worn or damaged, replace it. You will also need to check the water supply lines at connection points. In kitchens, the ice maker and dishwasher lines should be inspected periodically.
3. Inspect Water Heaters for Leaks
A water heater can develop a leak underneath. Sometimes, if the water heater is an older model, the lining inside the tank becomes worn and a leak may develop. Detecting the source and preventing plumbing leaks from your water heater is important because not only is water being wasted, but the water has likely been heated so energy costs are involved too.
4. Reducing Water Pressure Within the Home
Reducing the water pressure in your home can help with preventing plumbing leaks. Higher water pressure puts a strain on your plumbing by making the faucets, joints, and valves on appliances work much harder. This can increase the risk of a leak. You can check your water pressure with a gauge. Normally, the range should be between 40 psi and 85 psi. If it is higher, you can have a pressure reducer installed.
5. Leaking Toilets
If you notice water in front of your toilet every time you walk into the bathroom, this could be caused by the wax seal at the base of the toilet. When the seal stops working properly, water leaks onto the floor. Over time, this will cause your floor to deteriorate. It is not a matter of just caulking around the toilet base. This may keep the water from leaking onto the floor, but it will trap it underneath the toilet and cause more problems.
You can also detect a leak in your toilet tank with a test involving food coloring. Just drop some food coloring into the toilet tank and wait 15 minutes. If the water in the bowl of the toilet has changed color, that means you have a leak. Click here to learn how to fix a toilet tank leak.
You have invested a significant amount of time and money in your home. Preventing plumbing leaks helps to protect your investment.
Roesner Real Estate Inspections serves West Houston and the surrounding area with home inspection services. Contact us to schedule an appointment.