Plumbing Leaks And Ways To Minimize Risk

Water damage due to plumbing leaks, whether catastrophic leaks or even small hidden leaks, can cost thousands of dollars in damage.  How can you reduce the risk of water damage in your home?

Toilets, water heaters and clothes washer hoses are the worst offenders when it comes to leaks and damage, and it is recommended to turn off the water valves at these areas when leaving your home for an extended time. 

Clothes washer hoses should be replaced every 5 years.  Stainless steel reinforced ones are typically more durable.  The fittings are just like a garden hose, so it’s an easy job once you have the washer moved back for access.

Sticking flush valves combined with a clogged toilet can quickly cause lots of damage.  Toilets should be checked periodically to make sure the flapper valves are sealing properly, and be sure to check toilets that run longer than normal.

An average water heater holds 40 gallons, but in the case of a leak, water will keep attempting to refill the tank.  The typical life span of a water heater is 8-10 years, however the amount of minerals in your water can reduce that number.  Installing a water filter and / or flushing the tank annually are ways to minimize sediment build up and prolong the life of your water heater.

It is also a good idea to check under sinks periodically for moisture.  Loose fittings at the supply lines or on the drain pipes are common, and when the cabinets are full of towels and cleaning supplies, difficult to detect.  These fittings generally only need to be gently tightened in order to seal properly.

Monitors are available that will let you know when they detect water.  They require sensors placed in the areas near potential leaks.  The simplest of these alarms just emit an audible alert, so you need to be in the home to know if there is a leak occurring.  More advanced versions of these alarms can alert you via the telephone, but that requires a phone line connected to the device.  Another step up technologically, is an alarm that is connected to a home network which can send a message to your cell phone.  There are also electronically controlled valves that can remotely shut off the water before the leak gets too far out of hand.

Being prepared can help protect your investment.  Good luck!