How to Fix a Leaky Pipe

Leaky pipes are some of the most common plumbing problems that homeowners experience. They can also be some of the most frustrating. Whether it’s a simple fix that you can do on your own or a problem that will impact the overall quality of your home, leaky pipes should be taken care of as soon as you notice that something is wrong.

A high water bill can signal a leak, as well as the sound of dripping water when everything is shut off. The good news is that based on the seriousness of your plumbing issue, you may be able to fix the pipe all on your own!

What Should I Do if I Have a Leaky Pipe?

• Find the leak: Before you can do anything, you must first determine the source of the leak. The best way to do this is by walking through your home until you know definitively where the running water is coming from. Water stains are usually indicative of a leak, so check the floors, ceilings, and walls. Water stains on the walls can be misleading because the leak may have traveled from another room.
• Shut off the water: Once you’ve found the leak, it is time to take action. Begin by shutting off your water at the main shutoff valve. This will prevent any further damage from taking place while you’re fixing the pipe. Using a sheet of rubber, cover the source of the leak. These sheets can be found at almost any home improvement store.
• Seal the rubber: Seal the rubber by using a sleeve clamp, a C-clamp, or an adjustable hose clamp. The tighter you seal the rubber, the less chance you have of the pipe leaking in the future. To prevent the problem altogether, replace the pipe as soon as possible.

Pipe replacements can be tricky and often require the assistance of an experienced plumber. An Austin plumber from Excalibur Plumbing would be happy to provide a free estimate. Call 512-259-7222 or contact us online today to learn more about our top-quality plumbing services!