There are quite a few plumbing issues that homeowners can address on their own without scheduling professional plumbing services. A water leak, in some cases, can be stopped with just a few basic steps. Here’s how.
Toilet Leaks
To address a toilet leak, start by looking for the following issues:
- If water is going down the overflow tube when the tank is full, then the fill valve may need to be replaced.
- If the chain isn’t laying straight, it may be hooked onto something.
- If the flapper seal is warped or worn out it may need to be replaced.
Shutting Off Water Supply
If you’ve got a serious water leak, it’s important to turn off the water supply to the home to prevent water damage and avoid an expensive water bill. There are three areas in the home that may have the main water valve:
- Inside the home. Check the garage, laundry room, and basement, and along the exterior walls facing the street. Also look near the water heater.
- Outdoors on an exterior wall. Homes located in warmer climates may have the shutoff valve located outside the home on an exterior wall. Look for it near the outdoor faucet.
- Outdoors buried near the street. You’ll need to check with the water utility company to see if you’re allowed to access the single valve located below an access panel.
Once you’ve located the valve, turn it clockwise to shut off the water. Then, turn on all the faucets in the home to drain water from the system. Start by turning on a sink located in the lowest level of the home so that water in the pipes from the floors above will drain down. Open both hot and cold taps.
Then, go on to make the necessary repairs. Once you’re done with the repairs, rotate the valve counter-clockwise to turn the water back on. The faucet may let out some air as the water fills the pipes throughout the home. Wait a few minutes, then turn the faucet off again.
If you have any questions or plumbing issues, don’t hesitate to call Blue Apple for professional plumbing service.