Most people get to know their homes very well. They know how long their air conditioner takes to cool each room, when they should open their windows to freshen up the home and what you can cook on the stove without the fire alarm being triggered. Unfortunately, most homeowners are not as familiar with their
plumbing system. They tend to have no idea where the pipes lead and what happens in their drains. So, to help you get more familiar with your plumbing system, here are the answers to some common plumbing FAQs.
How Do I Shut Off My Water Supply?
Many people wait until there is a plumbing emergency before learning how to shut off their water supply. This can be a costly mistake, as more water damage occurs as you run around your home trying to figure things out. Fortunately, you can avoid this scenario by familiarizing yourself with your water main before a situation occurs.
The main water shut off valve is usually inside your home with a brass valve with a lever or round handle. This is usually located where your water enters your home, so it is usually found in the laundry room, garage or front of the home. To block the water flow to your home, turn the valve all the way to the right. If you test a faucet, remember that there will still be some water remaining in the pipe.
You should also know where your outdoor main water valve is located. This is usually near the sidewalk on the street outside your home. The handle on the valve should be turned in one direction as far as it can to completely shut off your entire water supply.
Why Do I Have Low Water Pressure?
Low water pressure can be a real pain, making even a relaxing shower a frustrating experience. Low water pressure can occur as a result of old pipes becoming clogged with rust and other debris. This reduces the diameter of the pipe and reduces the water flow. A leak can also be the underlying cause of low pressure, so it is a good idea to have low water pressure investigated by a plumbing professional.
What’s That Black Ring Around My Toilet?
If you have discovered a black ring at the base of your toilet it could be a result of a leak in the wax seal under the toilet. This black ring could be mold or a buildup of bacteria. Either scenario is not good, so you should have a plumber check it out. An experienced plumber can remove the toilet to replace the seal and clean the bacteria or mold.
Why Do I Have a Dripping Faucet?
A leaky faucet is not only annoying, but it can be expensive. It is usually the result of a worn or damaged mechanism inside the faucet. This is usually an easy fix, as the replacement components can be sourced at a hardware store or your
plumber can quickly correct the problem. To avoid a dripping faucet, be gentle when you are turning your faucets on and off. Force can create excess strain and cause leaks.
By Giovanni Longo President Flood Brothers Plumbing
Giovanni Longo is a 3rd generation master plumber who has been practicing his craft and trade in the greater Los Angeles area for well over a decade and a half. A plumbing and hydraulics-engineering innovator, Giovanni’s particular world-class expertise focuses on dealing with challenging sewer system designs as well as resolving complex commercial and residential draining issues. As a certified Flood Mitigation expert, he is also well versed in a wide variety of water damage and remediation solution.
