Whether you're heading out for the holidays or hosting guests at home, it's important to prepare your plumbing. Read David Gray Plumbing's in-depth instructions on how to check your pipes this season.
If You're Going Away…
Find & Turn Off Main Water Valve
Turning off the water supply to your home is your best defense against a holiday plumbing catastrophe. Besides protecting your home from a damaging leak, cutting the water supply also prevents water theft and saves you money. To shut off the water, you will have to locate your home's main water valve, which will likely be located outside attached to an exterior wall or in an accessible underground box. However, if you have sprinklers or a pool that require constant water supply, instead of shutting off the main water valve, you should individually cut the supply to each appliance in your home that uses water - including sinks, toilets, washing machines, and dishwashers. Your plumber can help identify and note each of these sources and verify that they are properly restricted.
Check for Leaks
A small leak or cracked pipe may not seem like a serious problem while you're at home, but it can lead to costly waste or serious water damage when left alone. Check the spigots on each of your plumbing fixtures to make sure they are drip-free. Consider investing in a smart leak sensor, which can conveniently alert you to unseen leaks. These can even alert you while you're away, allowing you to send help and mitigate damage. Additionally, be sure to examine the bases of your sinks and toilets and feel around the pipes underneath them. If you notice any drips, leaks or stains, call your plumber to inspect the issue.
If You're Hosting Guests…
Inspect Fixtures
When plumbing fixtures go unused for long periods of time, they can get sticky and malfunction. This can often happen in guest bathrooms that aren't regularly used until people are visiting. Guests may be hesitant to mention problems to you in the midst of holiday festivities, so it is important to do a thorough check of the plumbing fixtures in your bathrooms before they arrive. Turn on sinks to make sure water flows steadily and heats up appropriately and take time to test your shower fixtures as well. It is also imperative to double check for leaks, which may be harder to detect due to lower water usage. Completing a thorough inspection of the plumbing in guest bathrooms will help you avoid potential problems and keep your company content.
Test Toilets
In addition to inspecting sinks and showerheads, homeowners should take a look at their toilets before guests arrive. Make sure all toilets flush properly and stop running after use. A continuously-running toilet can cause water usage to skyrocket, which can not only annoy guests, but also seriously inflate your water bill. If your toilet is older or has a history of plumbing issues, consider installing a smart toilet. The futuristic fixtures feature touchless flushing, overflow protection, and water-saving sensors that will save you money in the long run - especially over the holidays.
Whether you need assistance locating your main water valve or installing smart fixtures, our experts can help you prepare your plumbing for the upcoming holiday. Call David Gray Plumbing at (904) 605-8190 or visit davidgrayonline.com.