How to Handle Plumbing Leaks with Ease

Nobody wants it to happen to them but plumbing leaks do occur and most often they are not only annoying but also quite expensive when left unchecked. However, before calling in any of the Knoxville plumbers, you can do yourself a great service by avoiding a catastrophe by following these seven simple steps.

Step #1

Wrapping your pipes in heat .The exterior forms the most important piping feature. If the cold-water pipes touch the building’s exterior portion when the water is not in use and at very low external temperatures, then the pipes will most likely freeze. However, moving water will not freeze and thus it is advisable to leave the taps running if you will be away from your premises for an extended period. The other option will be to insulate the entire space.

Step #2

A sink that is stuffed will spring a leak quite easily. Take a peak under the sink in your kitchen every now and then to see if it has leaks or not.

Step #3

Radiators need to be kept at a good level and should have an open valve. The first thing you need to do is to check the radiator pitch: it should be pitched back at all times toward the steam source. That way, whenever the water condenses, it will drain back into the boiler.

Step #4

Rather than blowing a gasket you need to replace it. If there is water dripping from the shower spout, it is likely that it is as a result of a defective seat or defective washer within its body. If you have isolation valves isolating water to that particular area, then it will be quite easy to fix the leak. You need to first isolate the water to that specific shower then disassemble the handles. Remove the stem where the washer is located and replace it. Re-install and make an observation.

Step #5

Washers are a cheaper option to getting a new fixture. If your washer is worn out, even a squeeze may still cause it to drip where it is defective. You will need to remove whatever is defective, place a new washer and retighten it. After re-tightening, put back the handle and test it out.

STEP #6

Trace the leak back to where it connects to the wall. When there is a leak, it most often originates from the back side, at the point where it connects to the wall. This will mean that you disassemble the drain work. Most cases can be resolved by tightening it using your hands and if that does not work, you can use a wrench. 

Step #7

A leaky water heater will do you no good. The main problem occurs when the lining wears off causing the water to drip from the base. If the dripping is heavy, call the manufacturer and give them the model number. If the product is still under the manufacturer’s warranty then the manufacturer will resolve the issue. In case its warranty has expired, you will need to purchase a new one and have a professional Knoxville plumbing service install it.