Leaking pipes are not just a symptom of winter. The extreme heat of summer can cause an increase in water demand that results in frequent clogs and built-up water pressure, or simple wear and tear can be the culprit. To avoid the costly repairs that accompany plumbing problems, it’s best to take a proactive approach to plumbing care. Following these simple maintenance tips can protect your home from water damage resulting from your plumbing.
Become Familiar with Your Plumbing
Every homeowner should know the location of the home’s main water shut-off valve. New homeowners may not recognize the importance of such information, but when encountering a major plumbing emergency, having quick and easy access to your shut-off valve can prevent any serious water damage. Also, if you have city water, familiarize yourself with your water meter and regularly monitor it. If there is a sudden spike in water usage, this may indicate the presence of an unknown leak.
Tips for Proactive Plumbing Care
Proactive plumbing care is the best defense against leaks. With most of your plumbing system being out of plain sight, these tips will help you prevent any water damage resulting from damaged pipes:
- Use Chemical Drain-Clearing Product Sparingly: Despite clogged drains being the number one home plumbing issue, the chemicals within most drain-clearing products can erode cast-iron drainpipes. Snaking the drain is a far safer alternative.
- Check Your Water Pressure: The ideal water pressure is 40 and 85 psi; any higher than that and the water can be putting undue stress on your pipes. Not to mention, it can raise your utility bill. You can buy a pressure gauge from most hardware stores.
- Treat Hard Water: If you have white buildup around your faucets or showerhead, you likely have hard water that’s building up corrosion-inducing minerals in your pipes. Hire a professional to install a sodium-based softener or purchase an easy-to-install electric softener.
- Insulate Your Pipes: Insulating your pipes will not only prevent them from freezing but will also maintain the temperature of your water, lowering your heating costs.
Despite taking measures to prevent water damage from plumbing leaks, sometimes accidents can still occur, which is why it’s important to have the right insurance.
What Policies Will Cover Water Damage from Leaking Pipes?
Water damage can often be an expensive fix, necessitating significant repairs and replacement of destroyed property. Fortunately, there are a few clauses within your homeowners policy that may assist you:
- Property Coverage: Some insurance policies will reimburse you for personal property that has been destroyed by malfunctioning plumbing. Things like furniture and electronics may be covered up to the policy limit.
- Dwelling Coverage: This clause insures the structure of your home, such as the roof, floors, and walls. If water damage compromises these areas of your home due to a covered plumbing leak, your insurance will reimburse the cost of repairs.
- Loss of Use Coverage: This insurance component will reimburse you for the cost of temporary housing and food expenses if you’re displaced from your home.
Bear in mind that your homeowners insurance will only protect you from covered leaks. If your plumbing malfunctions due to poor maintenance or general wear and tear, you may not receive reimbursement for the repairs.
If you follow these tips and regularly perform proactive plumbing care, you won’t need to worry about your insurance not covering any water damage. Ensuring your pipes are free of corrosive minerals and rust will ensure a healthy plumbing system with far less risk for leaks. At TJ Woods Insurance, we’ll make sure to pair you with homeowners insurance that will protect you from unfortunate accidents, such as a nonpreventable plumbing emergency. If you’re seeking comprehensive coverage to protect your lifestyle, contact us today.
