Summertime means vacation time, and while you and your family may be excited about all the fun you are going to have, you certainly don’t want to return home to a not-so-fun plumbing mess. So, before you pack your bags, here are some ways to prevent plumbing leaks so you can spend your trip worry-free!
Examine Areas Around Plumbing Fixtures
Your plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, and faucets, are all items that may be overlooked if they appear to be working normally. However, even the smallest of plumbing leaks can lead to a nightmare as well as an increase in utility bills. Here are some signs that your plumbing fixtures may be leaking:
- Water pooling under cabinets beneath fixtures
- Warped flooring
- Cracked or “spongy” spots in the flooring
- Ceiling and wall stains
- Bubbling/peeling of paint or wallpaper
Inspect Outdoor Plumbing
During the summer months, homeowners often use their outdoor plumbing system for gardening and lawn maintenance. To avoid any flooding issues on your property, ensure that valves with hoses attached are turned off. It’s also a good idea to clean out gutters, downspouts, and drains should there be heavy rainfall while you are gone.
Give Your Basement and Crawlspace a Once-Over
If you have exposed pipes in your basement and crawlspace and notice any corrosion, this could be a sign of a plumbing leak. If you smell or see mold, mildew, or rotting wood near pipes, this is also an indication that you may have a problem. Look for water stains, and check that any objects you may be storing are dry. If your items have mold growing on them, it may be time for a full basement inspection and water leak repair by a professional.
Water Leak from Ceiling
Yes, a water leak from the ceiling can be a sign of a plumbing leak! Being prepared for any plumbing emergency involves knowing it is possible that a pipe or fitting in your plumbing system could become damaged or worn and leak water into the ceiling cavity. It’s important to take action immediately, as ignoring the problem, and leaving it as is while you’re away on vacation, could lead to further damage, such as mold growth or structural damage. You should call a licensed plumber to assess and repair any plumbing leaks to ensure the issue is resolved.
Shut Off the Main Water Supply
If you are extremely worried about all these scenarios before going away, the easiest way to prevent a plumbing leak is to shut off the main water supply to your home. This will prevent any water from flowing through your pipes and causing a leak while you’re enjoying your day on the beach. If you’re still worried about your humble abode even after this, having someone check on your home periodically is a good idea. This person can check for any plumbing leaks or other issues that may arise while you’re away.
Contact Us Today For Denver Plumbing Leak Detection!
If you discover leaks or any other plumbing problems, AAA Service can help! Call or schedule an appointment online with AAA Service today. Our experienced plumbers will troubleshoot and fix the problem so you can have peace of mind while on vacation!
