Before we head into the summer months, now is a great time to make sure your outdoor plumbing is ready for all the heavy usage of the oncoming summer season. Whether you will be watering a garden, setting your sprinklers up, or just having some fun water activities planned, it’s always a good idea to make sure your outdoor plumbing fixtures are set up to handle the job. One common outdoor plumbing problem for homeowners is spigot leaks. When these are left unchecked, they can really mess with your summer plans. Check out this handy guide from Kettering Plumbing & Drain to help you spot and fix those leaks, getting your outdoor plumbing set for the sunny days ahead.
How to Spot a Spigot Leak:
Here are some simple steps to identify a leak on your spigots:
- Check for Drips: The first thing you should check for is drippage. Look out for any dripping water from the spigot when it’s turned both on and off. Drippage means you’ve got a leak that needs to be fixed.
- Watch for Stains and Mold: Mold and water stains are another tell-tale sign that a leak is at hand. Try checking around the fixture for water stains or mold. Finding these could mean there’s a hidden leak.
- Notice Lower Pressure: Don’t forget to check the water pressure, too. If the water pressure drops while using the hose, this is yet another sign of a possible leak.
- Keep an Eye Out for Rust: Check for any signs of rust or corrosion near the spigot. If left unchecked, this is an issue you will need to have assessed.
How to Stop a Spigot Leak:
If you’ve found a leak in your spigot, try these simple steps to fix it! Remember, letting a leak persist for a long time without getting fixed can turn into larger problems. So, it’s best to get this done as soon as possible.
- Tighten Loose Connections: If there are loose connections around the fixture, grab a wrench and tighten up the connection between the spigot and pipe. If this doesn’t fix the issue, proceed to the next step.
- Replace Washers: Worn-out washers are common culprits of water leaks. So, try replacing the old washers with new ones and see if that resolves the leak.
- Seal Cracks: Cracks or holes around the fixture need to be properly sealed up. Over time, the sealant may become worn-out or fall off. It’s not uncommon to have to reseal the area every now and then. Simply use sealant or plumber’s tape on any cracks around the bib. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the label.
- Prevent Backflow: If you are dealing with a backflow problem, installing a backflow preventer to avoid water re-entering the plumbing system is a good idea.
- Frost-Free Option: Have you dealt with a spigot freezing in the past? Consider upgrading to frost-free spigots to avoid potential leaks resulting from frozen fixtures.
Call a Professional:
Knowing when to reach out to a plumber is key for dealing with tricky or potentially unsafe plumbing issues. While you can handle minor leaks and small tasks yourself, certain signs indicate the need for professional help. If you keep dealing with leaks despite your best efforts, see water damage or mold near the spigot, or experience sudden drops in water pressure in your water hose, it’s best to call a licensed plumber.
By following these plumbing tips to spot and repair spigot leaks, you’ll guarantee a smooth summer of outdoor fun while boosting your peace of mind. Here’s to a leak-free summer full of good vibes! Remember, you can always contact Kettering Plumbing & Drain. So, go ahead and plan that backyard BBQ, water your garden with ease, and enjoy all the summer activities without worry.
Call Kettering Plumbing & Drain anytime at (937) 764-3788, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!