Water Leak Prevention
8 Smart Tips that Could Save You Future Trouble
Step 1: Locate Your Home's Main Water Shut-Off Valve
Many customers, especially at rental properties, never consider locating the main shut-off valve. This valve is typically located where the water line first enters the structure. In case of a plumbing leak, you can quickly turn off the water to the entire house by locating this valve.
Step 2: Install Shut-Off Valves at Individual Appliances and Fixtures
Installing shut-off valves for individual appliances or fixtures allows you to stop the water flow to a specific area while keeping water running in the rest of the house. Quarter-turn, ball-type shut-off valves are often available for under $10. Keep in mind, plumbers typically charge $50 to $150 per hour, often with a minimum two-hour charge.
Step 3: Install a Flow Sensor
A flow sensor can detect plumbing leaks and automatically shut off the water to the entire house or a specific appliance. Specialized sensors for individual appliances can start around $75, while whole-house sensors may cost thousands, including installation fees from a plumber.
Step 4: Remove Hoses from Outdoor Spigots
Though it may be inconvenient, removing hoses from outdoor spigots during winter helps prevent water from freezing, cracking pipes, and causing plumbing leaks or even flooding. Consider installing frost-free hose bibs to further protect your plumbing.
Step 5: Add Pipe Insulation
Pipe insulation helps prevent pipes from freezing in colder areas of your house, like garages, basements, or crawl spaces. Insulating your pipes can also reduce the wait time for hot water. Pipe insulation tubes are affordable—costing as little as 35 cents per foot—and can save you from costly repairs.
Step 6: Don’t Use Exposed Pipes as Hanger Rods for Laundry or to Store Clothes
While closet space can be limited, avoid using exposed pipes as makeshift hanger rods for clothes. Hanging items on pipes can loosen joints and fasteners, eventually leading to plumbing leaks.
Step 7: Don’t Overload Vanities and Sink Cabinets
Crowding your cabinets with cleaning supplies and toiletries can jostle water supply pipes and drains, loosening their connections and leading to leaks. It’s hard to spot small drips amid a cluttered cabinet, but they can cause significant damage over time.
Step 8: Fix Problems Quickly
Even small leaks can corrode pipes over time and lead to extensive water damage or mold. Take time to periodically check for signs of leaks and drips, and address issues as soon as you find them.
Water Leak Adjustment Request Form
If you’ve experienced a water leak on your property that impacted your utility bill, please complete this form to see if you are eligible for a bill adjustment.
EyeOnWater
EyeOnWater is a mobile app and website that helps customers monitor and manage their water usage. For customers with newer water meters (about 1/5 of BVU Authority's water customers), this app provides a comprehensive tool for managing water consumption.
Key Features Include:
- Real-Time Monitoring: Track your water usage in real-time, down to daily or hourly data.
- Usage History: View historical consumption patterns to analyze your water use over time.
- Leak Detection: The app monitors for abnormal usage patterns that may indicate a leak.
- Custom Alerts: Set up alerts to notify you if water usage exceeds a set threshold, helping you identify leaks or unusual consumption.
Download the EyeOnWater mobile app or visit www.eyeonwater.com to learn more.
