5 Plumbing Secrets Every Homeowner Should Know

Nobody is saying you should become an expert at fixing pipes but there are a few things every homeowner should know. Leave the major repairs to the pros but don’t be ignorant to the subject. Knowing a few basic plumbing secrets can only be good for you and your home.

How to turn the water on and off.

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The first thing you need to know in case of a leak is how to shut off the water. Don’t wait for the plumber to come. Go straight to the source and turn off the water. This is also what you should do before making any plumbing repairs.

How to fix a leaky pipe.

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If one of your pipes is leaking, depending on the type of plumbing and the extent of the damage, you can repair the leak with a pipe clamp or with epoxy putty. Find the location of the leak, turn off the main water supply and either place the clamp around the pipe and then tighten the screws or apply the putty around the pipe and let it set.

How to fix a dripping faucet.

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A dripping faucet is an easy fix and there’s no need to call a plumber for this when you can do it yourself. Some faucets use a rubber washer to stop the flow of water which can wear out over time and all you need to do is replace it. Newer faucets require you to replace the entire valve cartridge and have more parts, making things a bit more difficult but still manageable.

When to check to hidden water leaks.

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It’s possible to have a leaky pipe in your bathroom without knowing about it. Check for mildew, mold, damaged paint, damaged flooring or stains on the ceiling as well as unpleasant smells. These are all signs that there may be a hidden water leak you should try o discover and fix.

When to replace your plumbing.

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Old plumbing is very likely to get leaks so if you’re concerned about this, check the pipes and decide whether or not it’s time to replace everything. It all depends on the type of pipes so determine the type and check the expected lifespan. Also, watch for signs of trouble. Look at the exposed pipes, check for stains and discoloration and keep an eye out for leaks. If you get sporadic leaks in some places, then it’s very possible for the entire plumbing system to give out so you should replace everything as soon as possible.