The last thing you want to do if you discover a leak is ignore it, especially in the middle of a Florida drought. Even what might appear to be a small leak can lead to serious water damage if ignored or allowed to soak into your walls and floors. Here are 5 steps you can take to prevent a small plumbing problem from turning into a plumbing emergency!
1. Shut Off the Source
The first step is to cut off any supply to the damaged pipe or plumbing fixture. If you can’t isolate the source of water to the broken fixture, then you will need to turn off the main water line. Below is a great video that walks you through this process. Also, take the time to remove any standing water so it doesn’t have a chance to soak into your floors.
2. Assess the Situation
This is where you will need to put on your detective camp and find out exactly where the water is coming from, the condition of the pipe, toilet or fixture, and the size of the leak. This will help you decide whether you have a big problem on your hands or a smaller issue. Just keep in mind, the leak could be the result of a bigger issue somewhere else in the line. Never try to access pipes behind walls without hiring a professional. You could end up flooding your whole house that way!
3. Check Your Water Meter
One of the best ways to tell if you have a leak (or how serious a leak is) is to check your water meter. First, turn off all the water in you r home. Shut off all your faucets, the dishwasher and washing machine. Then, watch the meter and see if it starts to change. If it does, you likely have a serious leak. If the meter does not change immediately, wait two hours to check again. If it changes after the water is turned off, you probably have a slower leak.
4. Notify the Water Company
Depending on what you find, the plumbing issue could be the result of a damage main waterline, blocked sewer or just a faulty pipe, toilet or fixture. If you suspect the damage is at the main waterline level, make sure to contact your water company right away.
5. Contact a Plumber
The experts at Adams & Son Plumbing have been helping Florida homeowners for over 50 years. We are fully licensed in Florida and have over three generations of Master plumbing experience. If you feel this job is too big for you to handle, give us a call. We will get the job done right the first time!
As a homeowner, everything except the water meter is your responsibility to check and maintain. This includes general plumbing and bathroom plumbing and is especially important now with the Florida drought. Taking care of your pipes and repairing small leaks (and even clogged toilets) when they arise will keep your water bills down and leave you feeling more secure with your home.
If you do have any concerns, do not hesitate to give us a call!
