Leaks happen in every home, regardless of age or location, at any time of the year – and usually when you least expect it. If you hear a hissing sound from your toilet or water heater, notice visible mold, or notice a higher than normal water bill, you may have a leak. Once you notice a problem, you should fix it as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs later. Not all leaks are homemade, but here are some tips and tricks from Colorado Springs-based WireNut Drain Cleaning that will fix your leak:
Temporary Fix - Stopping a Leak
Stopping a leak should be the priority once the leak is discovered. Stopping a leak can help prevent costly damage and will make it easier to replace the damaged pipe in the future.
Steps to Stop a Leak:
Step 1:
Close or Shut off the main valve to prevent water from flowing to the leak.
Step 2:
Open any faucets attached to the joint or use an air compressor to remove any remaining water from the leaking pipe.
Step 3:
Dry the tube with a towel or cloth and allow to air dry before treating the area.
Step 4:
- Follow an old plumber’s trick of sticking the tip of a sharp pencil into the hole and snapping off the tip of the lead so it plugs the hole. Then cover the leak with epoxy using a spatula.
- Simply apply epoxy to the leaking area.
Step 5:
Cover the leaking area with rubber or a garden hose cut about 2-3 inches longer than the leak. Place the rubber or hose around the leak and hold it in place with metal hose clamps for at least an hour.
Step 6:
Make sure the leak area and rubber/hose are completely dry, then apply multiple layers of waterproof tape around the leak area.
Step 7:
Turn the water back on and check for leaks.
Permanent Fix - Fixing the Leak
While the above is an excellent temporary fix for small leaks, it does not guarantee a permanent fix. Call WireNut Drain Cleaning in Colorado Springs for help fixing your leaks. If you feel confident enough to go the DIY route, here are the right steps to do it.
You must first visit a local plumbing or hardware store to purchase the materials needed to complete this project. This includes spare hoses (length to be determined first), emery cloth, silver solder, soldering flux, assembly brush and flashlight.
Steps to Fix a Leak:
Step 1:
Open all faucets associated with the leak or use an air compressor to remove any remaining water from the line.
Step 2:
Use a hacksaw or pipe cutter to remove the damaged section of pipe.
Step 3:
Polish the old and replacement tubes inside and out with the emery cloth and the appropriate brush.
Step 4:
Lightly apply soldering flux to each side of the tube to be soldered.
Step 5:
Solder the new tube and let it cool.
Step 6:
Turn the water back on and make sure there are no more leaks.
Give Us A Call If You Notice Any Problems
If you’re unsure whether or not you have a leak — or know you have one but don’t know how to fix it — call 719-689-8111 or schedule a service online with the experts by Wirenut Drain Cleaning Pros Colorado Springs. We are there for you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for all your plumbing needs.