Simple Tips to Stop a Leak While Waiting for an Emergency Plumber

Plumbing leaks happen at any time of year. If they are left unattended, they can create serious damage. You will need more than an emergency plumber. You will need to call in someone to fix your electrical system, your drywall, flooring and anything else that got water damage from a persistent leak.

Whenever you find a leak in your plumbing, get in touch with your local emergency plumber right away. Do not worry about the time of day when you call. Most emergency plumbers are on call 24 hours a day. While waiting for their arrival, there are some simple things you can do to keep the leak from worsening.

Know the Location of the Water Shutoff

Knowing the location of the water shut-off valve is imperative. Some control valves shut off the main valve, and others control individual fixtures, so be sure you know your home’s water shutoff configurations. Shutting off the water will help a great deal to stop a leak and keep any damage to a minimum.

Use A Leak Detector

Sometimes leaks are not so easy to pinpoint. Invest in a leak detector and keep in a handy spot. It can take measurements through wood and drywall. You will find that leak detectors work best when you sense there is an actual leak. Some leak detectors come with an alarm that will sound when there is a leak, which will allow you to get in touch with your emergency plumber faster.

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Use Leak Epoxy

Using leak epoxy is an effective way to stop leaks, but this method is more involved than the ones previously mentioned. When you know there is a leak, you must sand down the area where it is and press the epoxy around the leak with your hands. After about an hour, the epoxy cures, hardens and plugs up the leak stopping water loss. Don’t worry. Your local plumber will be able to do repairs around the epoxy. Your plumber may, in fact, need to replace any piping where the leak originated so the epoxy will not cause any issues.

Attach Leak Tape to The Leaky Area

Leak tape closes up any holes in pipes. Just apply the tape to the leaky area and the leak will stop. Be sure you have turned off the water, too, when you use this method.

Now that you know a few methods for stopping leaks temporarily, you know you can manage while waiting for an emergency plumber to arrive. You will save your home from extra damage by following the above tips. If you do not have an emergency plumber, now is the time to start looking for a reputable one in your area, so you have someone to call on in the event of a plumbing emergency.