Keep an eye out for water leaks

Small water leaks can and often do lead to big problems. Be alert to signs that more trouble may be on the way. Leaking taps, damp cabinets, rocking toilets or dripping refrigerators are all symptoms that require fast and decisive action.

Repair problems early

A leaking tap isn’t just annoying. The moisture puts wear on sink fixtures and encourages mold and mildew growth. Another way to spot a plumbing leak is to pull your refrigerator away from the wall at least once a month. If you see water, you may have a leaking icemaker. Also, small puddles could be worse than larger ones, as that can indicate that water is soaking into your floor.

Know how to respond to overflows

If water is gushing from your sink, toilet or anywhere else, locate your home’s main shut-off valve for the water supply. If it’s in a dark, hidden or hard-to-reach place, gather any tools you’ll need for a quick shut off and store them nearby. There’s nothing like the frustration of a missing flashlight or a misplaced shut-off key when water’s pouring down the stairs from a broken pipe.

Shutting off appliances

You should also know how to shut off the water to individual sinks, toilets, washing machines and other water-using appliances. Knowing how to shut off the water supply when there’s a problem can reduce the potential damage and take some of the sting out of your cleanup efforts.

Learn how to tackle small problems

With a few tools and a little knowledge, most homeowners can learn how to handle small plumbing emergencies on their own. With a plunger, a pipe wrench in your tool kit, you’ll be able to take care of small problemslike clogged drains or blocked pipes.