Major leaks that require the attention of an emergency plumber are relatively rare, but when they do happen, they require quick intervention. Because they typically occur in pipes hidden in walls, you may not know there is a leak until the damage is significant. If you find a problem with your plumbing, these actions can help you avoid a major repair down the line.

Do:

Shut off the water before you do anything.

First, you should turn off the water supply at its source. If a toilet is leaking, there is a shut-off valve on the side of the toilet that can be turned off. If a pipe is leaking, turn off the main water supply. Water meters are typically located outside of a home. 

Examine exposed pipes frequently.

Plumbing pipes are generally exposed underneath sinks, near water heaters, and in unfinished basements. Pay attention to any exposed pipes, so you can spot potential problems before they escalate. Every winter, you should insulate exposed pipes by wrapping them with towels or foam purchased at a hardware store. During the process, look for damp spots and call a plumber if you find any.

Don’t:

Keep obstacles near drain pipes.

Drain pipes allow water to flow away from a fixture in your home. They are often near laundry rooms, sinks, and showers. Make sure items are not too close to your pipes. Washing machines vibrate during operation and can bang against exposed drain pipes, causing them to leak.

Use exposed pipes as hanger rods.

Many exposed pipes are located in basements near washing machines, and some homeowners hang laundry from them for natural drying. Doing so can loosen joints and fasteners and cause a leak to develop.

If you experience a plumbing leak in Montana’s Flathead Valley region, you can depend on a fast response from the plumbers at Wild West Plumbing Heating & Drain Service in Kalispell, MT. They specialize in repairing leaking pipes, broken faucets, and clogged drains. Call (406) 752-1244 to schedule an appointment, and visit them online to learn more about drain cleaning.