Translating…
Nobody likes a plumbing problem. When something goes wrong we want it fixed as soon as possible.
The first thing you’re probably asking is, can I fix this problem myself or do I need to call a plumber? Your next questions are probably, how big a job is it going to be, and is it going to be expensive?
Here are the most common problems and what to about them:
Dripping Taps
Dripping taps are a simple, but annoying problem. The main question to ask when you have a dripping tap is whether should you fix it, or whether should replace the whole tap. The answer depends on two things.
First, the leak could be caused by a washer. Washers get old and eventually perish. When this happens water starts to leak through. Washers are relatively easy to replace. If you have some handyman skills you should be able to replace the washer yourself. If you get a plumber to change the washer it won’t take long, but they’ll probably charge you a minimum call out fee which will seem like a lot for the size of the job.
Second, the leak could be caused by a broken part. In this case it’s usually best just to replace the whole tap. Parts are usually expensive relative to the cost of a new tap, so it makes more sense to get a whole new tap for your money. The main exception to this is when the tap you already have is very expensive.
Burst Pipe
Unlike a leaking tap, a burst pipe is very dramatic! You’ll know you have a burst pipe because water is pouring out of your wall or ceiling.
The first thing to do is turn of the water mains. In most cases this is a tap on the boundary of your property. Once the mains are shut off, you’ll want to call a plumber. This job is too serious for a handyman.
Leaking Hot Water Cylinder
If you’re finding water around your how water cylinder it could be for two reasons.
First, the connections might be leaking. This should be a relatively simple repair once you’ve located the leak.
Secondly, it could be leaking from the cylinder itself. This is caused by the cylinder rusting or corroding. In this case the cylinder will have to be replaced which is quite a major job.
Tap Won’t Turn Off
If your tap won’t turn off, then you’ll have turn off your water further upstream. If it’s a cold water tap then turn it off at the water mains. If it’s a hot water tap, turn it off at the tap on the base of your hot water cylinder. This will prevent all your hot water from draining out.
Once you’ve got the water off your options are similar to those of a leaking tap. You can either get the tap repaired or replaced, but it will probably make the most sense to get it replaced.
Leaking Water Main
The water main is the pipe that brings water into your property. If this is leaking you’ll find a puddle of water in your yard.
Today many plumbers have technology that enables them to pinpoint the leak before they start digging. This makes for a much more efficient solution.