Leaks in your plumbing system can be very costly and cause extensive damage in your home if you don't know how to handle them.

The following are six things it's important for you to know to minimize damage caused by plumbing leaks in your home:

How to turn off your main shut-off valve

Every home has a main shut-off valve that makes it possible to cut off water flowing to every plumbing fixture in the house.

If a plumbing fixture starts overflowing or leaking in your home, turning off the main shut-off valve will instantly stop any leaking and prevent your home from being flooded by water. It's therefore essential to know where this valve is to prevent large-scale flooding and water damage.

What you shouldn't be putting down your toilet and drains

Unfortunately, a lot of homeowners and household residents cause damage to plumbing fixtures that leads to leaks because they put things they shouldn't down their toilets. 

While you can put toilet paper down your toilets, you need to avoid putting excessively large amounts of toilet paper down your toilet at once. Otherwise, you should never put items like maxi pads, paper towels, q-tips, diapers, or grease/food waste down your toilets. 

How to read your water meter to detect unexplained water consumption

Sometimes, leaks develop within a home's walls that are difficult to detect before extensive damage has already happened. The only way to detect such leaks is to check your water meter to see if your home's water consumption has gone up unexpectedly.

Homeowners should learn how to read their water meter and know what normal water consumption is for their home. This way, they become immediately aware of unusual increases and can immediately search for the source of any leaks they discover. 

How to deal with clogs without using chemical drain cleaners

Constantly using chemical drain cleaners to deal with clogs in your drains and toilets can lead to damage in pipes which could develop into leaks over time.

Therefore, it's important to use chemical drain cleaners sparingly and address the root of any clog problems rather than resorting to superficial, temporary cures with chemical cleaners. 

How to prevent burst pipes

Burst pipes can become a huge risk. This is especially true during the winter months when the water inside pipes can freeze and then expand so that pipes develop fissures.

You can prevent burst pipes in a variety of ways, including by installing insulation over pipes and by ensuring that pipes are maintained at temperatures above freezing throughout the winter. 

When it's time to call your plumber for assistance

You should have the number of a good plumber in your area available so that you can call for plumbing repairs right away if you notice any symptoms that indicate a plumbing leak. 

Reach out to a company such as Arnold & Sons Plumbing, Sewer & Drain Services.