As summer approaches, it’s time to start thinking about your outdoor plumbing, too. Getting them ready for the busy season ahead is something we often forget. Whether it’s keeping your garden green or setting up for some summertime water fun, spigots and water hoses are key. Ensuring they’re in good shape is crucial. That’s where your friends at Five Star Columbus Plumbing come in. We’re here to give you the tips and tools you need to spot and fix leaks, ensuring you have a blast this summer without any hiccups!
What About Identifying Spigot Leaks?
Usually, you won’t spot a leak unless it is just outright obvious or you know what to look for. And remember, if you do find a leak on your spigot, it’s crucial to fix it ASAP. Leaks often fly under the radar for a bit. So, if you’ve got a leak, depending on when you last checked the area for one, it may or may not have been leaking for a while.
- Dripping Water: Go ahead and turn the faucet on for a bit. If you notice water leaking from the spigot either while it’s running or after you’ve turned it off, that might need a closer look. Water is supposed to come out from the fixture’s spout (or the water hose) and not from under the spigot.
- Reduced Water Pressure: Another tip: check the water pressure while the tap is on. If the water’s barely trickling out, it might mean you’ve got a leak. In that case, you’ll need a professional to figure out what’s going on. Extremely low water pressure is often a tell-tale sign of an inner leak.
- Rusted Fixtures: A rusted spigot is not a good look. It could mean there’s a leak somewhere that needs fixing.
- Water Stains or Mold: Water stains or mold can sneak up on you when you least expect it. Keep an eye out and regularly check around spigots for any signs of water stains or mold. If you spot any, it’s a pretty good sign that it’s time to call in the pros!
What About Fixing Spigot Leaks?
Fixing a spigot leak is pretty straightforward with a few simple steps. If it’s just dripping water, follow the steps below. But remember, if you’re dealing with something trickier, like low water pressure, it would be best to call in a licensed professional.
- Tighten Loose Connections: If you find any loose connections on the fixture, it’s a good idea to start by tightening them up. Grab a wrench and carefully but firmly tighten the spigot.
- Replace Worn-out Washers: It’s common for washers to get worn out after a while. So, if tightening the spigot didn’t do the trick, it might be time to slap on some new washers. Sounds simple, but this may just resolve the issue for you!
- Seal Any Openings: Cracks and openings around fixtures can pop up from regular use and exposure to the elements. Got a leak, and the sealant’s looking a bit tired? Just grab a waterproof sealant and patch up any visible cracks or gaps around the spigot. This simple fix will protect against leaks and cut down on future headaches.
- Implement Backflow Prevention: Installing a backflow preventer isn’t a bad move at all – it’s a smart way to protect your plumbing from water flowing the wrong way. It keeps your water quality up and helps stop contamination.
- Upgrade to Frost-Free Spigots: If you’ve had a run-in with a frozen spigot before or even had a leak because of it, think about switching to frost-free spigots. This can really help dodge the whole frozen pipes and leak drama, making sure everything keeps running smoothly even when the weather decides not to play nice.
What About Contacting a Professional Plumber?
Knowing when to call in professionals can really set your plumbing up for success! Deciding whether you can fix that leak on your own or if you need a plumber may require discernment. So, keep in mind that if you’re dealing with water stains and mold, rusty fixtures, or super low water pressure, it’s probably time to call in an expert. These are all signs that you might have an internal leak.
By following these tips to spot and fix spigot leaks, you can keep your outdoor plumbing in top shape and avoid any unwanted hassles. This way, you get to relax and enjoy a smooth summer without worries!
Call Five Star Columbus Plumbing anytime at (614) 401-8086 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
