A leaky pipe can be more than just a minor nuisance. If not dealt with quickly any longer, it can cause water damage, mold, higher software bills, and expensive upkeep. Fortunately, solving leaky pipes does not always need the know-how of a plumber. With the right tools, a touch of time, and best plumbing service in phoenix pointers, you can restore most leaks yourself and prevent further harm to your home.
Within this post, we are going to take you through a number of easy steps that one can follow in ensuring that leaky pipes are dealt with accordingly. Grab your toolbox and get ready.
Turn Off the Water Supply
Before doing anything, ensure that you expose the water supply to the affected area. If the leak happens to be in the kitchen or bathroom, the shutoff valve is usually found under the sink or behind the toilet. If the leak is huge enough, you may have to turn the main water supply off to your house. This will prevent more water from leaking out and causing further damage as you go about fixing the problem.
Identify the Source of the Leak
Once the water supply is off, the next thing you should do is find where the leak exactly is. Sometimes, leaks are obvious; in other cases, it may be a bit difficult to trace. Here are some tips that will help you identify the source:
- Look for Drips or Wet Spots: If you see a drop of water falling from a pipe or start to build up at the floor, you‘ve probably found the leak.
- Check the Pipe’s Condition: Check pipes for any signs of deterioration such as rusting, cracks, or holes. If the pipe has corroded then it is more likely well-overdue for replacement.
- Check the Joints and Fittings: Most often, leaks will develop at joints where two pipes come together. These should be closely examined for dampness.
Once you have located the leak, you can determine whether or not the leak is something that you can repair yourself or whether or not you will need to get the help of a professional.
Use a Pipe Repair Clamp
If the leak is small and the pipe is steel-e.g., copper or galvanized metal–one of the easiest ways to prevent it in the short term is by using a pipe repair clamp. This tool is available with most hardware stores. It’s designed to give you a short-term seal around the pipe until you can do a more permanent repair.
Here’s how to use it:
- Clean the area around the leak to get rid of dirt or rust.
- Place the clamp over the leakage stage of the pipe.
- Tighten the clamp with the use of a wrench or screwdriver, making sure it is stable and seals the cavity.
That’s a great temporary repair, but keep in mind that pipe repair clamps are not designed for indefinite service. You‘ll still have to address the root issue with a more permanent repair later.
Use Epoxy Putty for Small Leaks
In the case of smaller leaks or even fissures in pipes, epoxy putty may represent a speedy and clean solution. This represents a moldable substance hardening as it sets into a water-resistant seal. It works well on both metallic and plastic pipes.
Here’s a way to use epoxy putty:
- Clean the Pipe: Use a twine brush or sandpaper to clean the region across the leak.
- Mix the Epoxy: Knead the putty together as directed by the product manufacturer.
- Apply the Putty: Form this over the leak, pressing it firmly into place. Make sure to cover the entire area where the leak resides.
- Let it Set: Allow the putty of epoxy to set before turning the water back on for about 30 minutes to one hour.
That is great for temporary repairs but may not hold up to substantial leaks or chronic problems.
Seal with Pipe Repair Tape
Another quick repair for the leaky pipe involves the use of pipe repair tape. Particular tape has been made in a way that it forms a watertight seal over the leak and can be able to apply it in a few minutes. Especially for plastics with flexible pipes, such as PVC.
Here’s a way to use pipe restore tape:
- Clean the Area: Clean the pipe completely off from water, dust, or corrosion; this would make it tacit for the tape to cling to it.
- Wrap the Tape: Wrap the tape tightly over the leak. In wrapping, make sure to overlap so that the entire area is completely covered.
- Press Firmly: Gently press down on the tape to make sure it clings to the pipe and seals the leak completely.
This method is quick and neat, but remember that pipe repair tape should only be used as a temporary fix until you can properly fix the pipe.
Replace Damaged Sections of Pipe
If you‘ve found a larger crack, void or more serious damage the best solution may be to replace the harmed portion of pipe. It will provide you with a much longer-lasting repair and also save you from future leaks.
Here is how to replace a section of damaged pipe:
- Cut the Pipe: Using a pipe cutter, carefully cut the affected segment from the pipe. Make sure you degree and cut as straight as possible.
- Install the New Pipe: The new pipe is measured and cut to size, to fit into the space. If one is dealing with a steel pipe, fittings are used in joining the new pipe to the antique one. In dealing with plastic pipes, one might need PVC cement or other adhesives for the stability of the new pipe.
- Test the Connection: Turn the water supply on again before sealing the whole thing up, testing for leaks. If it still leaks, tighten the connections, make adjustments as needed.
If you‘re unsure about how to do this or you lack the tools to do so, then it would be a great idea to consult with a plumber.
Consider Professional Help for Complex Issues
While the above strategies can be constant in most minor leaks, in more complicated situations like pipe bursts, intensive corrosion, or leakage inside the walls, the requirement of professional assistance can also be required. If the damage is huge or you do not feel comfortable with repairs, do not show any hesitation in calling a licensed plumber. They would possess experience and equipment to completely solve the larger problems.
Final Thoughts
Not every leaking pipe is going to break your day or cost you a fortune in maintenance. Using these simple plumbing tips, you can easily and speedily repair small leaks. Always remember: turn off the water supply first, then assess the situation and try temporary repairs using options such as repair clamps, epoxy putty, or pipe tape. If it is a more major leak, consider replacing the damaged section or calling in a professional plumber.
