24 Apr Stop Leaks Before They Start: Protecting Your Home from Water Supply Line Damage
Water damage is one of the most common and costly issues homeowners face. While floods or burst pipes are dramatic, much of this damage starts subtly, often originating from failing water supply lines hidden within your walls or floors. These lines are constantly under pressure, meaning even a small weakness can lead to significant problems over time.
The good news? Most Water Damage Restoration Long Beach experts will always tell you to take proactive steps to minimize the risk of water supply line issues and prevent the devastating consequences of water damage. Here’s how to safeguard your property:
Know Your Plumbing’s Age and Material
Older homes often have plumbing systems nearing the end of their expected lifespan. Galvanized steel pipes, common decades ago, are particularly prone to internal corrosion that restricts flow and eventually causes leaks. Knowing the age and type of your pipes helps you anticipate potential problems. If you have significantly aged plumbing, consider a professional inspection or replacement plan.
Conduct Regular Visual Inspections
While many supply lines are hidden, check the visible ones regularly. Look at pipes under sinks, behind the toilet, and connecting to appliances like your washing machine, dishwasher, and refrigerator (ice maker line).
Our Water Damage Restoration Long Beach experts suggest you watch for: * Bulging or cracked hoses (especially rubber appliance hoses) * Corrosion or discoloration on pipes and fittings * Any signs of moisture, drips, or water stains nearby
Check and Manage Water Pressure
Excessively high water pressure puts constant stress on your entire plumbing system – pipes, fittings, and appliance valves. You can buy an inexpensive pressure gauge that attaches to a hose bibb to test it. Ideally, residential pressure should be between 40-60 PSI, and generally not exceed 80 PSI. If it’s too high, a plumber can install a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) at the main supply line.
Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
In colder climates, exposed water supply lines in unheated areas like crawl spaces, basements, attics, or near exterior walls are vulnerable to freezing. Water expands when it freezes, easily bursting pipes. Use pipe insulation sleeves to protect these lines during cold snaps.
Know Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
This is crucial! Every homeowner should know the location of their main water shut-off valve and how to operate it. In an emergency, like a burst pipe, quickly shutting off the main water supply can prevent catastrophic flooding and drastically reduce damage. Test the valve periodically to ensure it isn’t seized.
Replace Appliance Hoses Periodically
The flexible hoses connecting washing machines, dishwashers, and ice makers are common failure points. Standard rubber hoses degrade over time. Consider upgrading to more durable braided stainless steel hoses and replace them every 5-7 years as a preventative measure.
Be Proactive, Not Reactive
Addressing potential water supply line issues before they cause leaks is far less stressful and expensive than dealing with water damage cleanup and repairs. By incorporating these simple checks and maintenance steps into your routine, you significantly reduce your risk and protect your valuable property. If you have concerns about your plumbing’s condition, don’t hesitate to contact a licensed Water Damage Restoration Long Beach expert.