How to prevent water leaks at home (and avoid major damage)
A water leak may seem trivial... until it floods your basement or damages your floors. Here's how to spot them early, prevent them, and take action before it's too late.
1. Signs of a water leak
Pay attention to:
- A water bill that goes up for no reason
- Humidity stains on walls or ceilings
- Mould smells
- A water meter that runs even when everything is closed
2. Risk areas in the home
- Kitchen: pipes under the sink, dishwasher connections
- Bathroom: toilet gaskets, shower, bath
- Basement: water heater, washer connections, main drain
- Outside: frost-free faucets, sprinkler pipes
3. Preventive maintenance
- Visually check the connections every 3 months
- Replace worn gaskets at the first sign of leaks
- Have the water heater inspected annually
- Drain outdoor pipes before winter
4. Install safety devices
- Leak detectors : alert by alarm or mobile notification
- Automatic shut-off valves : turn off the water as soon as a leak is detected
- Regulated water pressure : prevents overloads that tire the pipes
5. What to do in case of a leak?
- Shut off the water at the source
- Mop up and limit damage
- Call a plumber to assess and repair
- Documenting for insurance
Conclusion
Water leaks are expensive... but prevention costs almost nothing. With a few regular checks and good reflexes, you can avoid most of the damage.
Do you suspect a leak or do you want a complete diagnosis?
Contact Plumberial for a quick inspection and a flawless repair, but without any glitches.
