Are you in the Greater Atlanta area and suspect a plumbing leak in your home? Dealing with leaks is one of the most dreaded homeowner experiences. But when should you call a professional plumber? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore simple diagnostic steps to help you pinpoint the leak’s location. You might even be able to fix it yourself, avoiding the need for a plumbing service call.
What should I do first, water leak?
Firstly, it’s important to note that this guide focuses on leaks within the water supply system, not drain pipes. Drain pipe leaks, often revealed by water spots on the ceiling, can be trickier to diagnose as they occur when the connected fixture is in use. In contrast, supply system leaks are usually constant.
So, how can you tell if you have a leak? For many Atlanta residents, the first sign is an unusually high water bill. Other indicators include wet spots in your yard or water seeping through your concrete slab. A quick initial check involves inspecting your water meter. Look for a triangle or star-shaped dial; it’s the most sensitive part of the meter. If it’s moving while no water is being used inside, it’s a clear sign of a leak. Occasionally, a non-moving meter can also indicate a leak, which might be due to a faulty meter. However, this scenario is rare and should not be your first assumption.
Once you’ve confirmed a leak, locate your home’s main shut-off valve. Turn it off and recheck the meter. If the meter stops, the leak is inside your house. If it continues, your leak is likely outside. In such cases, contacting a professional plumber becomes essential. Atlanta plumbing experts, like us at [Your Plumbing Service], have specialized equipment to locate outdoor leaks or discuss other possible solutions.
If the water shut-off indicates an internal leak, the next step is to determine whether it’s in the hot or cold water system. Reactivate your home’s water supply and shut off the valve leading to your water heater. If the meter stops, the leak is in your hot water system. If it continues, focus on the cold water system, where the culprit is often a running toilet. To pinpoint the problematic toilet, turn off each toilet’s valve one at a time, checking the meter after each.
When do I get a plumber to assist with a water leak?
Not confident in tackling the leak yourself, or need assistance in isolating it? Don’t hesitate to call us at 678-598-6528. As your dedicated Hometown Plumber in the Greater Atlanta area, we’re here to assist you through the process and repair any leaks, big or small. Let us show you why we’re the go-to plumbing service for Atlanta residents!
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