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Preventing Water Damage and Plumbing Problems

Water damage is a costly problem, and one of the most common causes of water damage is faulty plumbing. Preventive measures are essential in avoiding water damage from a plumbing problem.

Water Pressure

Water pressure in your home should be measured with a pressure gauge. The ideal reading should be somewhere between 60-80 psi (pounds per square inch). If the pressure is higher than 80, you run the risk of having a pipe burst.

Leaks

Check your utility bill and look for an unusually high amount of water consumption, as this indicates you have a leak somewhere. All of your pipes and fittings should be checked for leaks at least once a year. Appliances such as ice makers, dishwashers, water heaters, and washing machines have rubber fittings or washers that weaken over time. Replace dry, cracked fittings and tighten any loose ones.

Prevent Damage

Check under sinks for any small leaks that have gone undetected. Everyone in your household needs to know where the cutoff valve to the water supply is located. If a pipe bursts, prompt action can limit the damage that occurs, and save you money on your repair bill.

Pipes

If you plan on being away from home for an extended period of time, turn off the water supply to prevent unexpected leaks from flooding your home. When temperatures drop near freezing, allow your pipes to drip. This keeps water from freezing inside the pipes. Frozen pipes block the flow of water to your home and may burst. If you have any pipes exposed to the elements, make sure they are properly covered.

Insurance Claims

Each year, millions of dollars are spent on water damage through a href="http://www.waterdamagelocal.com/insurance.asp">insurance claims and out of pocket repairs. Taking precautions will help ensure that your home, and wallet are protected from water damage.