Pipe leaks and broken pipes are a nightmare for all homeowners in Bergen County and Passaic County in New Jersey. The water in our supply pipes is always under pressure, typically 50 pounds per square inch. This is why when a pipe bursts or leaks, it does so with a spray. Even when a pipe bursts inside a wall, it goes out with the same pressure.

The most common sense thing to do is to first shut off the valve which supplies water to this particular pipe. Most homes today receive their water supply via copper pipes which are soldered with tees, elbows and fittings. In older homes, threaded and galvanized iron pipes are quite common. However, these have been slowly phased out because mineral deposits clog them over time.

Most homeowners ignore pipe leaks as they think it is a minor issue that will go away on its own. However when left unchecked, pipe leaks can cause serious damage to your walls, not to mention the increase in your water bills!

What are you going to do if your pipe leaks? The good news is that a pipe leak repair is not rocket science. If you are unable to remedy the leak on your own or are hesitant to, it is recommended you contact a plumbing service in Bergen County and Passaic County in New Jersey.

The following are handy tips that nobody told you about fixing pipes:

Tip #1

Wrap the pipes in heat

The exterior of the piping is its most important feature. If cold water pipes outside the building come into contact with the very low temperatures and the water is not used, the pipes will definitely freeze. Water does not freeze when it is moving upwards. Therefore, it is recommended that you leave your faucets open if you’re going away for some time. If this doesn’t sit well with you, insulate the entire space. Your local plumbing services can help you with this.

Tip #2

It is easy to spot what’s wrong even if you don’t know what’s right.

Do a quick inspection of the pipes that are visible in your home. Make this a part of your routine check. Homeowners who do not do this are usually the ones who are later surprised by a water puddle that “suddenly” appears in the basement, damaging everything around. When looking at the pipes in the basement, check for rust, drops of water or buckling. These are indications that something is amiss. This is when you need to contact a professional plumbing service company.

Tip #3

Setting back the spigot valve

If your pipe is running through a cement foundation, you may need to install a frost-free hose bib. This will allow you to shut the water off closer to the interior of your home to prevent freezing. Again, this is something technical that a complete plumbing services provider can handle for you.

Tip #4

Radiators require an open valve and a good level.

Expert plumbing services recommend to first check the radiator’s pitch. It should point towards the back or source of the steam. This is so that when the water condenses, it will drain back into the boiler.

Tip #5

A leaking water heater is probably a dead water heater.

When the water heater leaks, the inner lining wears away and water starts to drip from the base. You will need to contact a plumbing service company to remedy this situation. If there is a lot of water dripping out, then the plumber will contact the manufacturer with your water heater’s model number to check whether the item is still within warranty. If a new water heater is installed, be sure to install a pan underneath.

Tip #6

Replace the gasket.

If water is dripping from your shower spout, the cause is usually a defective seat or defective washer within the body. If you are a DIY expert, you will know that this is a fairly easy problem to fix, provided you know that isolation valves are needed to isolate water to this particular area. If not, you will need to find affordable plumbing services in your area. The plumber will isolate water coming to that shower and release the stem of the washer. He will then replace and reinstall and observe it.

Tip #7

Locate the trap leak to the wall.

If you spot a leak, it may be coming from the back where it connects to the wall. This is something an expert plumbing serviceshould be looking at. When the plumber arrives, he will most likely disassemble the drain works. But before doing so, he may tighten it with his hands to stop the leak. Sometimes a wrench might be required to tighten it with a grip.

Some things to keep in mind

Washers and o-rings are cheaper and easier to install than a new fixture.

The source of your leak might be a worn washer. It is quite easy to remove the old one and replace it.

Always inspect under the sink

Make it a routine to inspect under the sink on a regular basis.

Mechanical faucets are not meant forever.

Mechanical faucets will leak with the passage of time. Whether you buy a very expensive faucet or refuse to part with your old one, the fact is all faucets are prone to wear and tear including corrosion. Eventually it will be in a condition beyond repair and need to be replaced.

In all the cases mentioned above, your residential plumbing services provider can assist you.

Plumbing problems are a headache for most homeowners in Bergen County and Passaic County in New Jersey. Most plumbing emergencies occur during odd hours such as in the middle of the night or on a chilly winter afternoon. In such cases, it helps to contact a 24 hour plumbing service. If you suspect a leak or need assistance with any plumbing issue, it is best to contact a professional plumbing service.