10 Tips to Prevent Plumbing Leaks and Avoid Water Damage
A plumbing system consists of components such as sinks, faucets, water heaters, as well as an extensive network of supply and drain pipes within walls or floors or buried underground. DK Environmental shares the various measures business owners and homeowners can take to prevent water damage caused by plumbing leaks.
Manage the water pressure
High water pressure is known to reduce the lifespan of plumbing as it strains the pipe joints, faucets, and appliance valves. Measure the water pressure with a hose bib gauge and ensure that the pressure lies within 40-85 psi. Anything above this range is bound to put massive pressure on the plumbing and give way to disastrous leaks.
Use a water softener
Hard water has a high mineral content and leads to a slow but inevitable build-up of minerals such as magnesium and calcium in the pipes. This restricts water flow, corrodes joints and fittings, and increases pressure on the pipes. Property owners can
install a water softener to combat hard water. They can choose from softeners that use sodium to counteract the minerals in the water or electronic softeners that utilize electromagnetic pulses to dissolve minerals.
Insulate the pipes
Freezing temperatures or drafts can cause pipes to freeze and leak. Therefore, property owners must insulate all accessible and exposed plumbing as well as seal any external openings that bring cold air in contact with water supply lines. Insulating water pipes also help save money on energy costs by preventing hot water pipes from losing their heat to the surrounding air.
Change washing machine hoses
Rubber hoses that supply water to washing machines have a lifespan of five years only. The rupturing of these hoses is a common cause of leaks in homes. Replacing old rubber hoses, preferably with braided stainless steel lines, ensures that there are no leaks due to wear and tear.
Investigate minor leaks
Leakage of any size must be addressed at the earliest. A visual inspection of all faucets, toilets, and exposed pipes as well as any signs of leaks where the pipes penetrate the walls or foundation helps ensure no leaks are going unaddressed. Look out for tiny pools of water on the floor, water stains near the pipes, or warping of wallboard or paneling. Moreover, all plumbing fixtures must be solidly attached to the floor or walls with intact seals.
Know the shutoff valves
Property owners must be aware of the location of the main water shutoff valve in case of a water leak. They should know how to operate it as well. These valves must be tested yearly to ensure they switch on and off easily. The accumulation of mineral deposits can freeze the valve in an open position if left unchecked. Additionally, all individual shutoff valves such as those installed on the wall behind toilets and under sinks must also be inspected for optimum function. Knowing where the shutoff is can be the difference between minor and major water damage.
Check the drains
The appearance of bubbles or a gurgling sound during drainage can entail a big problem. Ideally, the water should easily spiral down the drain pipes as it enters the pipes. If not, further investigation and correction are warranted.
Install floor pans
Leaking appliances can lead to major water damage to floors and other contents. A floor pan under an appliance is the first line of defense against water leakage. It cannot prevent leaks but can protect the property from minor and slow leaks.
Buy a water alarm
Water alarms sensors can be placed in basements, laundry rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, or next to the sump pump. These are very helpful in alerting the inhabitants of a water threat and instigating immediate action to prevent the damage.
Invest in a water flow monitoring system
A water flow monitoring system can be attached to the water mains to measure the water flow into the premises. Unusual and continuous water flow will automatically be stopped by the system and protect the complete property.
Plumbing leaks can cause severe damage to a property and property owners must immediately contact water damage restoration companies such as DK Environmental for professional and efficient flood cleanup services.
"10 TIPS TO PREVENT WATER DAMAGE FROM PLUMBING LEAKS"
Why DK Environmental?
Serving Washington's King, Snohomish, and Skagit counties, DK Environmental is a premier contractor that assists clients with water damage, mold, asbestos, or bio-recovery projects in both residential and commercial properties.
Offers 24x7 emergency services to ensure instant response and support.
Works directly with the client’s insurance company to streamline the claim experience.
Curates affordable solutions to meet client needs.
We hope you enjoyed and learned valuable information reading "10 TIPS TO PREVENT WATER DAMAGE FROM PLUMBING LEAKS."
For more information on water damage restoration services, call 425-903-4356 or email at info@dkeabatement.com
Contact
David Talamantes
7802 28th PL NE Marysville, WA, 98270
425-903-4356