Having a basic understanding of general plumbing can help you handle emergencies and make small repairs. Here are some essential tips and information:
Know Your Water Source:
– Water usually comes from a well or a public water supply.
– If you have a well, you won’t receive a bill for water usage. However, if you’re connected to a city supply, you’ll receive a monthly bill.
Test Water Quality:
– If you use well water, it’s advisable to test it at least once a year.
– Changes in the environment and activities in the region can affect water quality.
– Many suppliers offer water testing kits, and your local city may provide discounts.
– Tests can reveal nitrates, turbidity, heavy metals, bacteria, minerals, and other contaminants.
Locate and Operate Your Main Water Valve:
– Most houses have a main valve near the street and a secondary valve inside or around the main valve, often in the basement.
– Familiarize yourself with how the valve works (it could be a wheel or lever).
– Turn it clockwise, push it down, or to the right until it stops to shut off the water supply.
– Test the shut-off by running water in a sink. If it doesn’t work, the valve may be faulty.
Find Individual Cut-Off Valves:
– Locate the cut-off valves for devices like washing machines, toilets, and sinks.
– These valves allow you to stop the water flow to a specific area without shutting off the water to the entire house.
Understand Water Meters and Bills:
– Every home has a water meter, usually located near or around the house.
– Learn how to read your water meter to monitor consumption and detect leaks.
– Check the meter regularly (e.g., monthly) to identify any unusual water usage.
Test Water Pressure:
– Contact your water company to test the water pressure or purchase a pressure-testing device.
– Attach the device to an outside water faucet to obtain a reading of the water pressure.
Regulate Water Pressure:
– If you receive municipal water, there should be a water pressure control mechanism.
– Adjust the regulator to increase or decrease the water pressure in your home.
– Have someone monitor the pressure while you adjust the regulator counterclockwise or clockwise.
Identify Hidden Leaks:
– Camouflaged leaks can cause damage to your home’s infrastructure and plumbing components.
– Close all faucets and check your meter for any continuous water usage.
– To check for leaks, turn off all water for at least 15 minutes and monitor the meter. If it’s still running, you may have a leak.
Understand Your Water Heater:
– Locate the shutoff valves for the electric and gas supplies on the water heater.
– For a gas water heater, turn off the gas supply line control clockwise. For an electric water heater, find the igniter and turn it off.
– Adjust the temperature using the wheel or scale near the top and bottom of the water heater. Consider the high, medium, and low settings.
– If you’re unsure about adjusting the temperature, seek assistance from a professional plumbing firm like Clog Kings LLC.
– Place a drip bucket under the water heater to catch any leaks. Water heaters typically last 10-12 years and may start to leak towards the end of their lifespan.
By understanding these general plumbing tips, you’ll be better prepared to handle minor repairs and know when to seek professional assistance.
This post was written by Joey Denick. Joey is the Owner and Operator of Clog Kings. At Clog Kings, LLC, we pride ourselves on our dedication and efficiency. We know you don’t have time to waste. That’s why we work fast to get your home or commercial building back up and running in no time. If you are looking for a Plumber in Sarasota FL then look no further because we got you covered!
