Water Leak Detection and Prevention

Dangers of Water Leaks: Winterization and Prevention

Water Leaks in the US

• The average home wastes 10,000 gallons of water a year through leaks, which is enough to fill a backyard swimming pool.
• 10% of homes waster 90 gallons or more per day through leaks - that's more than three swimming pools per year!

Water Damage in the Home

• Large scale leaks, like those caused by ruptured pipes, can cause flooding in the home. The result is property damage.
• Mold growth is a risk if the water isn't properly removed and the impacted area completely dried.
• Repairing pipes and replacing damaged property can cost thousands of dollars.

Leak Detection

• Check your usage -- a home likely has a leak if water usage is over 12,000 gallons per month in the winter.
• Listen: new noises or dripping sounds can indicate leaks before you spot the damage.

Quick Fixes

• Small leaks, such as leaking toilet flappers or dripping faucets and shower heads, are easily fixed at home.
• You may be able to fix drips using simple pipe tape and a wrench.

Leak Prevention

• Before freezing nights, insulate all exposed pipes using foam or fiberglass insulation.
• Consider installing plastic piping, which is more tolerant to temperature changes than metal.
• Shut off the water supply to exterior drains and pipes.
• Purge your sprinkler system of remaining water with compressed air.

This infographic and information provided by Her Home Repair. Additional sources include: http://epa.gov/watersense/pubs/fixleak.html

http://www.nachi.org/winterization.htm

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