As winter approaches, it’s time to prepare your home’s plumbing. This includes shutting off your outdoor hose bib.
The water supply pipes in older homes are often made from copper, which lasts a long time and is still used in many newer houses. However, copper can develop pinholes over time.
Turn off the Water
The city’s water department faces a backlog of broken water mains, with crews working around the clock to clear it. Mild weather and the thawing of the frozen ground are causing the lines to shift, which can lead to breaks.
If you’re thinking ahead, knowing how to shut off your water supply in case of a problem can save time, money, and potential damage. Locate your home’s water valves and show family members where they are, so they can quickly turn off the water in an emergency.
According to plumbing services Baltimore, you need to look for isolation valves in your plumbing system that allow you to shut off only specific fixtures or appliances. This can be especially useful if you’re planning on doing any remodeling or repairs to your plumbing. Turning off the water in a specific area will prevent any accidental breaks that could occur during your project. Also, it will help keep your water warmer, which can help loosen any ice that has formed.
Close the Drains
Drains and sewer lines deteriorate with age. In older homes that have copper plumbing, it is common for pinholes to develop that result in a leaking pipe. These issues can cause severe damage and be very expensive. Often, plumbers will need to replace these lines.
Drain and sewer cleaning is necessary for any Plumbing services Baltimore plan. Some signs that your drains may be clogged are foul odors, no drainage, and gurgling noises. Home remedies like boiling water can sometimes fix these problems, but it is better to call a professional plumber.
We utilize a drain camera inspection to determine the cause of these problems and how to repair them. This is a small, waterproof camera that is sent through your pipes. This allows us to get a good view of the inside of your drains and sewer lines. This can help us find the root of the problem and fix it quickly and efficiently.
Turn off the Water
Having water leaks in your home is never good. It can lead to increased bills, and if the problem is left unchecked, it could result in significant damage. Knowing how to shut off your water supply valve is essential.
The best way to do this is by locating your main water shut-off valve, which is usually located out by the street in a concrete box. Look for two chrome-plated valves connected to the water supply tubes to find them. Once you have found the valve, turn it clockwise to turn it off.
If you are unsure of where your valve is or can’t manage to turn it off, call plumbing services Baltimore right away. They will be able to help you and install an easier-to-access shut-off valve for you in the future. This will make it much easier to handle plumbing emergencies that arise.
