pipe problems &
resolutions
what do you need to know?
an average homeowner usually is inexperienced in everything related to pipes, especially to the hidden pipes.
at the same time,
it is important to be familiar with some techniques that will allow to understand if there are any pipe leaks to act quickly and
fix them to minimize dollar losses.
for Canada and specifically for Collingwood climate low and very low temperatures are frequent for the wintertime.
there is always a risk that pipes, especially pipes on exterior walls of a house can freeze, blocking water flow and more dangerously
bursting pipes that can cause a significant damage to a house.
signs for frozen pipes
once you are aware of frozen pipes or there is a high probability that pipes are frozen act immediately.
call a professional to identify and fix the problem.
- low-to-very low temperatures
- frost on the pipes
- no water coming out of faucet/s
- unusual drain smell
pipe leaks
finding a pipe leak is not always an easy task, but it is possible even for anyone who is inexperienced with plumbing.
here are a few techniques how to do it
- the simplest way to find a leak is to inspect your exterior and interior pipes
- check water pressure, low pressure is a sign for a leak
- shout down water in a house and check the meter, if it’s still moving most likely there is a leak
- if it changes quickly the leak is significant, if it changes slowly the leak is small
- check and monitor bills for increases while usage remains with no change
-
use color to check if toilets are leaking – add the color to the toilet tank and see if it appears in the toilet bowl without flushing
pipe maintenance and leak prevention
follow the next simple rules to prevent leaks
- soften the water
- use a water filter especially if in an area with hard water
- don’t use chemical solutions regularly to unclog drains
- insulate and lower the pressure
- call a professional if there are signs of leaking pipes or clogged drains
tips to remember
- inspect your appliances regularly for signs of water around them
- inspect your pipes especially after winter low temperatures and stormy weather
- check the water pressure in faucets
- monitor meter changes
- monitor bill changes what needs to know