When people think of water leaks they often envision a flooded basement or a waterfall pouring from a toilet. But leaks are more common than you think and can be costly if not addressed.
Whether it’s a constant drip, a sudden water bill increase, or a musty smell, many leaks are easy to fix and can save you money.
Dripping Faucets
Faucet leaks tend to be one of the most common household issues that homeowners encounter. They can lead to water damage, sagging walls and ceilings, mold growth, increased water bills, and more. But, fortunately, this is also one of the easiest plumbing problems to fix!
Over time, the O-rings and washers inside of faucets can wear down, causing them to leak. However, this is easily fixed by replacing them. You can do this by removing the handles and carefully loosening the stem nut using a wrench. Once you have the stem nut off, you can then remove the seat washer and O-ring.
It is also important to check your water pressure frequently as it can be the cause of leaking faucets. This is especially true if your water pressure changes at certain times throughout the day. Changing the water pressure can help to prevent the problem from occurring in the future. However, if you notice that your leaking faucet isn’t being solved by these steps, it’s time to call in a plumber!
Leaking Water Heater
Leaking water heaters can be quite dangerous because they can lead to serious water damage, and often require expensive replacements. The location of the leak tells plumbers a lot about what’s causing it, and knowing where to look can help homeowners make repairs faster.
If the leak is coming from the cold or hot water inlets, then you might be able to fix it yourself by tightening loose connections. On the other hand, a leak from the top of the tank could be caused by rust or cracks in the internal tank, which is encased in insulation.
Finally, the pressure relief valve may leak as a safety measure to relieve excessive pressure. This type of leak is usually fixed by replacing the valve. If you find a leak, it’s important to respond quickly because even large leaks can cause significant water damage over time. Water damage can be minimized by turning off the water supply to the tank, and cleaning up any standing water.
Leaking Pipes
Pipes can leak for many reasons such as corrosion, rust, clogs, and age. For help with blocked drain(s) in Melbourne, call a professional plumber. Whether it’s the water supply pipes or drain pipes in your home, leaking pipes can cause several
problems. The leaking water can damage the interior and exterior of your home, which isn’t good for its value or your health. It can also be a source of water loss and a reason for high utility bills. Additionally, leaking pipes can lead to mold growth which isn’t only unsightly but a serious health risk.
Remember, the famous historical writer John Bunyan was right when he said “one leak will sink a ship.” It’s important to address small issues before they get bigger. That way, you can save money and prevent expensive repairs later. If you suspect a leaking pipe, turn off the water to the area until you can call a plumber. It’s also a good idea to know where your water meter is located so that you can shut off the water to the entire house.
Leaking Water Filters
Whole-house water filter systems contain numerous components that can develop loose fittings over time, particularly after changing the filter. These loose connections can leak water and, in some cases, cause damage to the pipes or fixtures. If you notice a leaky water filter, shut off the water to your home and tighten any connections that seem loose. If you are unable to stop the leaking, consider replacing the entire system.
Leaks from a whole house water filter can be caused by many things including cracks in the housing, O-rings that have become damaged or worn out, or debris stuck on the filter. Fortunately, this is one of the easiest leaks to fix without a professional. First, make sure that the water supply valve is closed and that the filter is in bypass mode before unscrewing the housing. You should also open a faucet downstream to drain the water pressure and prevent a mess when removing the filter.
