5 things you need to know about plumbing leaks

1. Water Pressure - You want to have the proper water pressure, not too high and not too low.  A water pressure reducing valve can save water and can save you money in three ways.  First, by reducing energy needed to run the water through your systems, possibly as much as 30%.  Secondly, water gushing out of the faucets is most definitely wasting water.  Lastly, when wastewater treatment loads are reduced, cost benefits can accrue for both the environment and your bottom line.

2. Leaking Pipes - You may not always know what's right, but you can usually spot what's wrong. Take the time every once and awhile to inspect your pipes. If rust or lime is depositing on them, this may indicate a leak is starting. If this is occuring, contact Gary’s Plumbing and Heating to address the problem. By performing an occasional inspection you could stop a small problem before it turns into a large and expensive one. Leaking pipes can damage floors and belongings and become much more costly than if the problem was detected early.  You can look at the pipes in your basement and have no idea what you're looking at, but if you see rust, buckling or drops of water, you'll definitely know something's wrong.

3.  L eaking Faucets - A faucet is a mechanical thing, so eventually it's going to leak. Some people like the faucet that's already there, even if it's older.  Many prefer to install a new one. There is a point at which the faucet is so old and corroded that it will be difficult to get parts for it. A lot of the time, it's simply cheaper to install a new one. We’ll happily assess the problem for you, and make recommendations for you accordingly.

4.  Leaking Sinks - Do you have a pack rat situation under your sink?  If so, time to organize that sucker!  Sinks can easily spring a leak. So, make sure you attend to that area by keeping it organized and sneaking a peek for drips every once in a while.  Save yourself a headache and a potential mess.

5. Frozen Pipes - You know how temperamental our weather can be. Our winters can see the thermostat stay below freezing. When the outside temperature reaches below zero, any standing water in your plumbing system will freeze and expand, which strains joints and can lead to leaks when the water defrosts.

A Way to Help Prevent Leaks - There is a range of different techniques you can use to prevent your pipes from freezing and leaking, but one of the simplest and most effective is insulating them. You can do this yourself, although it might be a bit of a long process for a layperson. A specialist contractor may be better-equipped for the task.  Our team can do this for you!