Don’t Let Emergency Plumbing Repairs Catch You Off Guard

• Know Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve

In a plumbing emergency, like a burst pipe, there’s no time to waste. Locate your main water shut-off valve and turn off the water. This valve controls the entire water supply to your home. Knowing its location and how to operate it can prevent extensive water damage. Familiarize your family with its location too.

• Insulate Pipes

Wintertime can be tough on the pipes running through unheated spaces such as the basement, the garage, and outdoor spaces. You should never leave anything to chance when it comes to preventing frozen pipes. It only takes a few hours of freezing temperatures for unprotected pipes to burst. Our plumbers in City of Industry recommend you insulate exposed pipes with foam or fiberglass sleeves. This is a simple preventive measure that can go a long way toward preventing burst pipes during winter.

• Test Your Sump Pump

A sump pump is your first line of defense against basement flooding. Unfortunately, many of us rarely think about the condition of this essential device until water damage occurs. Do not be among those who learn the hard way. Make sure you test your sump pump after every major storm or at least every few months. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to ensure the pump activates and effectively removes the water. Listen for any unusual noises and check that the discharge pipe is clear. If the device doesn’t work properly, reach out to a professional plumber for help.

• Keep a Plunger or Drain Snake Handy

You don’t want a drain clog to catch you off guard when you want to take a shower, prepare a meal, or soak in an invigorating bath. A plunger or drain snake can help you clear minor clogs in kitchen sinks, shower drains, toilets, and floor drains. You can find these tools in a local home improvement store. As a preventive measure, be mindful of what you put down your drains. Items like wet wipes, grease, diapers, and cotton wipes should never be flushed or rinsed down the drain. They can accumulate and create severe blockages. If you find yourself dealing with a stubborn clog, reach out to a local plumbing repair service for professional drain cleaning.

• Inspect and Maintain Pipes Regularly

Schedule regular inspections to reveal potential plumbing issues before they escalate. Check for leaks, corrosion, or weakened pipe connections. Pay attention to changes in water pressure or unusual sounds coming from your pipes and plumbing fixtures.