Plumbing leaks in your home not only cause water damage to walls, ceilings, and assorted household items, but they also create welcome environments for mold and mildew. Fungi need damp, dark environments to thrive, and the spaces behind your walls are among their preferred locations in the home. Rather than risking mold infestations among other costly water damage issues, take steps to mitigate the problem as quickly as possible before calling your local plumber.

5 Tasks to Do If You Spot a Water Leak

1. Shut Off the Source

Turn off the shut off valve as well as all faucets and appliances to limit the amount of water leaking into your home. These valves are usually found on the ground floor, such as in the kitchen or bathroom, though they may also be in an attached garage. Valves are found on internal water meters as well. If the leak is isolated, such as a washing machine leak, turning off appliance’s isolation valve will suffice. These valves are typically found behind the appliances.

2. Check the Meter

Check your water meter to determine the severity of the leak. If the meter changes immediately after shutting off the water, you have a serious problem, like a clogged sewer or a broken water main. Should you suspect a sizable leak, notify your water company immediately.

3. Turn Off the Electricity

Turn off the electricity in your home to prevent water contact with electrical wiring, especially if the leak is in a ceiling or behind a wall. Flooded areas of your home also present electrocution risks if they come in contact with wires.

4. Use Buckets & Towels

Wrap leaking pipes in towels and place buckets under any drips to further minimize the damage. The more you can do to soak up and catch the water, the less damage you will deal with once the leak is resolved.

5. Schedule Emergency Plumbing Repairs

Contact your local plumbers to schedule emergency services. Experienced, knowledgeable plumbers easily identify the leak source to provide the right services such as toilet repair or drain cleaning. They also provide written accounts of the damage and the services rendered, which is helpful if you need to make an insurance claim.

Joe Klosterman Plumbing is a family-owned and operated plumbing company proudly serving Cincinnati, OH, and the Tri-State area since 1983. Count on licensed master plumbers to provide the detail-oriented services you need for a functional home, including sewer cleaning and sump pump maintenance. Call (513) 941-6766 today to schedule repairs or visit the plumbers online for more information. Like the Facebook page for tips on maintaining your home’s plumbing.