Plumbing knowledge: 5 things you should know about your plumbing

06 May 2015

Knowing these five top-tips could prevent a home plumbing disaster

1-    Know how to turn off your water

Normally water can be shut off at the meter so knowing where the shut off valves are, and how to control them, will prevent a lot of unnecessary water damage in the event of leaks or pipe bursts at home. Care should be taken when turning these valves on or off because the water pressure could be high, and valves could be old – turn them slowly. Knowing where the shut off valves to sinks and toilets are can also save time and unwanted water damage.

2-    Learn how to read your water meter.

Ensuring you’re being billed properly is of course handy for your pocket. Always check your usage each time you are billed and try to catch leaks. Your water company can help you read your bill and meter and any questions and explanations you need, call the number on your bill.

3-    Find out the water pressure

The main cause for plumbing leaks is high water pressure. The water pressure coming into your home should be under 80 psi. An easy way to check is to buy a pressure gauge which might cost about 10 pounds. If you’d rather not check it yourself then your water company will usually come and check it for you free of charge.

4-    Know where the clean-out plugs are on your sewage system

Whether you have a sewer or septic tank, knowing where the clean-out plugs are is the key to solving a clog or backup problem in your plumbing system.

5-    Know how to shut off the gas supply

As important as the water valves, if not more so, is knowing how shut off the gas supply to your home. Educate yourself on the gas supply to the building as well as each gas appliance you have then if you know an issue is just with a specific appliance you can isolate the incident and save time by shutting off the gas at this specific location.

In the event of a plumbing emergency Homecure Plumbers offer 24 hour emergency plumbers in London, seven days a week. All our London plumbers are gas safe registered and can be with you in an hour.