Keeping Your Water Bill Low This Summer
When summer arrives, homeowners depend on water to keep their lawns green, fill their pools and provide them with ice-cold drinks. Plumbing problems can bring your day to a halt and have consequences that can last for years. Don’t put off professional plumbing service until it’s too late! Here are 3 summer plumbing tips from an expert plumber that will help you keep your water bill low.
Check for Leaks as the Weather Warms Up
Warm temperatures cause the metal in copper pipes to expand and strain o-ring seals. Damage to pipes or connectors can cause leaks and water damage. To detect leaks, go from room to room and look at the plumbing fixtures, plus the walls and floors around them. Warped wooden cabinets and hardwood floors are major signs of water damage. Check for rotting plaster, mold buildup, peeling paint, or damp walls. If severe water damage occurs, the floor can become uneven.
Keep an Eye on Your Water Pressure
Low water pressure can be a sign of a leak. The water pressure in your house should be about 40 pounds per square inch (psi), although some homes have pressures up to 60 psi. If you have low water pressure throughout your home, call your utility company to find out if there is a problem with the water mains. If low water pressure affects only one fixture, it could be a sign of a leak in the pipes that lead to that fixture.
Be Able to Shut Off Your Water Supply If You Have To
If a water leak is costing you money and threatening your summer plans, the first thing to do is shut off the water supply. Your home should have an accessible valve that you can turn to prevent water from getting into your home. Sinks and other fixtures often have valves you can use to cut the water off to a single faucet or showerhead. That way, you can repair it without having to get wet. Keep in mind that pipes and hoses could contain water even after you shut off the main water supply.
Whenever you need a professional plumber in Castro Valley, CA, turn to Castro Valley's H & R Plumbing. For more information, call us at (510) 296-9840 today and book an appointment with one of our services!