7 Ways to Avoid Leaks In Your Denver Home
Research shows that a household can lose up to 20,000 gallons of water a year because of leaks. Some of these leaks are visible while others go for a long time undetected. Both can cause huge damage to a home, which the owners should try to avoid. Also, a homeowner should know what to do in case of a leak and how to detect the problem. Here are seven ways you can avoid leaks in your Denver home.
1. Check the Roof and Foundation
Check the attic for any signs of water leaks from the roof. You can spot stains, awful smells, or mold. Check for stains in the plaster or damp spots on joints. You can also place a water sensor near roof lines to detect water when humidity levels go extremely high or install a heater to melt snow and prevent a possible roof leak. Outside, check the roof for any signs of damage, such as missing shingles or warped roofs.
2. Test Toilets
Running toilets can waste up to almost 200 gallons daily. So, check if every toilet is flushing properly and all the components are in good shape. If you have a tank-based model, make sure the water shuts off after filling. To test if your toilets are leaking, put food coloring in the upper tank and check if the color moves in the toilet. Check the flapper in your Denver home and if it’s faulty, replace it as soon as possible. A report by the Environmental Protection Agency shows that one out of 10 U.S. homes experiences a leak in the plumbing system.
3. Examine the Water Pressure
The major causes of low pressure are a blocked sewer, a water leak, or pipe corrosion. To determine the cause of low pressure, check the mineral deposits in the showerhead, pipes, and fixtures. Also, inspect the kitchen and bathroom for leaks and condensation. If it’s winter, pipes can freeze or cause leaks. In addition, if your water bills are higher than usual, it can indicate a problem. Install a leak detection system to identify and alert you when there is a leak.
4. Inspect Gutters and Downspouts
Debris and other dirt can clog the gutter and make rainwater travel under shingles or over the roof. The overflowing water can get into your home’s foundation or basement, causing problems. Therefore, clean gutters and downspouts at least twice per year to prevent blockage and ice dams. In addition, make sure the downspouts direct water away from your Denver home.
5. Inspect the Sump Pump
These pumps are common in homes with a basement. They ensure the basement doesn’t flood after heavy rains. A sump pipe can fail due to poor installation, stuck switches, clogging, or old age. To prevent leaks, ensure it’s properly serviced and maintained by a professional. It’s common to find some water damage in 98% of basements.
6. Perform HVAC and Appliance Maintenance
The condensed line in an HVAC can clog, leading to water overflowing over the drip pan. The water leaks can damage the floor or ceiling below. Hire an expert to check the condensate line and check the drip pan regularly. Also, maintain appliances such as washing machines and refrigerators regularly. The hoses can become old and brittle, leading to leaks. If the hose is over five years old, replace it to prevent expensive damage.
7. Check the Kitchen Disposal
Functioning kitchen disposal helps keep your pipes and sink clean. If you like vegetables, the peeling can clog the disposal. If you hear abnormal noises, check if a spoon or any silverware has slipped into the disposal. Check for leaks where the kitchen disposal connects to the plumbing system. If you experience these three signs: odd smells from the drain, sounds from the pipes, and low water pressure, you need a plumber.
The damage can be overwhelming if you experience small or catastrophic water leaks. Therefore, always check your roofing, HVAC, faucets, sump pump, and kitchen disposal. If you experience low water pressure and signs of mold, investigate where there’s a leak.
