If you have a leak in your home, it can be incredibly frustrating when you can’t find the cause. While many plumbers obviously have sophisticated tools and equipment there are still a few things that homeowners can do on their own. If you know what the problem is, you may even be able to take care of it yourself – at the very least, you can tell your plumber so that he’ll know exactly what needs to be done when he arrives. The experts with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Dallas would like to allot few ways you can act as your own type of “detective” when it comes to sniffing out leaks.
Toilets, Water Heaters, Etc.
This is usually one of the main culprits when it comes to leaks. Check around the bottom of your model to see if there’s any standing water. There could be a leak at your water heater as well. Check the relief valve, which you’ll find at either the top or the side of the tank. If you have a leak in your shower, listen for running water and call a professional if you hear it.
Fixing a Leaky Faucet
You can obviously see if water is dripping from your faucet – you may also hear that maddening “drip, drip, drip” when you’re trying to sleep. Here’s some information you’ll need in order to start attacking the problem.
- Shut off the water underneath the sink.
- Cover the drain so you don’t lose any parts.
- Make sure you use tape on your wrench so you don’t scratch any delicate portions of your fixtures.
- Determine the type of sink you have, – cartridge, ceramic disk, ball or compression.
- If you have a compression model, the problem will probably be a worn out rubber washer.
- If you have a ball-type model, you can find a replacement kit at your local hardware store.
- Cartridge faucet leaks are usually caused by worn O-rings.
- For a ceramic disk faucet, you’ll more than likely need to replace the neoprene seals.
We’ve put together a SlideShare presentation that provides other information on leak detection. It also has very important information on what to do if you have an emergency such as a broken pipe. If you have any questions or you need help, get in touch with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Dallas. Contact us online or call us at (214) 989-4212.