We all know how annoying it is to suddenly discover a leaky pipe in the home. The sound of a leak in your home is not only a nuisance, it can lead to water damage, mold growth and an increase in water bills if left unattended.
Not to worry. Whether you’re dealing with a blocked drain, a minor leak or trying to stop the flow until a plumber arrives, we’ve provided a simple guide to help you fix leaking pipes like a pro (or at least stop the damage before it escalates). If you live in Melbourne but don’t know when to call a blocked drain plumber Melbourne, this article is also for you. Read on:
Steps to fixing leaking pipes in your home
- Identify the leak
First, you need to figure out where the leak is coming from. Sometimes it’s obvious (like water spraying out of a pipe), but other times it’s more subtle. Look for signs like:
- Damp spots on walls or ceilings
- Puddles or wet flooring
- Musty smells
- Dripping sounds
Use a flashlight to inspect the area, and use a few paper towels to test for moisture. The goal here is to pinpoint the leak so you know exactly what you’re dealing with.
- Turn off the water supply
Once you’ve found the leak, your next move should be shutting off the water supply. This will save you from a whole lot of mess. If the leak is in a specific location like under the sink or behind the toilet, there should be a nearby shutoff valve.
If not, turn off the main water valve for your home. It’s usually located near where the water line enters the house, often in the basement, crawlspace or outside wall. After that, open the faucet connected to the pipe to let any remaining water drain out completely.
- Try a temporary fix
If you have the time, you can do a quick repair, there are a few temporary fixes that can hold things together until a professional plumber arrives and take a look.
- Use a pipe repair tape (also called plumber’s tape); wrap this tightly around the leak. The tape is waterproof and will buy you some time till the plumber comes.
- Use epoxy putty and mold it around the leak. Then leave it to harden. This solution works well on small cracks.
- Place a price of rubber over the leak and then secure it with a rubber or hose clamp.
Note these fixes are temporary and will not last forever, but they can prevent further damage in the short term.
- Know when call to pro
Sometimes, a DIY fix won’t be enough especially if the pipe is badly corroded, the leak is coming from a joint , there’s a visible mold or water damage.
Your temporary fix won’t hold in these situations so it’s best to call a licensed plumber. They’ll ensure that the job is done safely and properly, saving you money in the long run.
Conclusion
Leaking pipes can be a hassle, but they don’t have to be a disaster. When you take quick action and the right approach, you can minimize damage and keep your plumbing in check.
It’s okay to patch things up yourself temporarily but whenever you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to call in a professional plumber.