When it comes to DIY plumbing, a little basic precaution can save a huge amount of money and worry alike. This is particularly vital when it comes to the risk of burst pipes, overflow or flooding. The following tips will help you familiarise yourself with your home plumbing infrastructure and take the preemptive measures that can stop the damage before it starts.
Find and Label your Main Shutoff Valve
This simple component has the power to stop all incoming water. Closing it quickly should be the very first step when flooding begins. You will then have all the time in the world to take the next step, whether it’s investigating yourself or calling a professional. (Information via Plumber Gold Coast)
Of course, the middle of a plumbing emergency is never an ideal time to start the search. You can generally find it at ground level, either outside or in the basement. Place some colourful tape or any other eye-catching marker around it, preferably with an arrow drawn to indicate which direction to turn (something easy to forget in a moment of panic).
Tell everybody in your home where to find it, and encourage practice so it becomes second nature. And since you won’t be home 24/7, consider using the shutoff valve before you leave on holidays.
Keep a very close eye on your laundry.
The laundry is possibly the most common place flooding can occur. The rubber hose fitted to most washing machines can easily become dislodged, warped or cracked; all risks that can be prevented with a diligent eye in the preceding days and weeks.
Alternatively, you can replace it with metal piping: a much sturdier alternative that brings far better peace of mind.
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