Preventive Measures

When it comes to preventing water escape in your home, there are a few things you can do to help.

• Regularly inspect the service lines to your toilet, sink and tub, plus all your appliances, including washing machines, dishwashers, fridges with ice makers, and water softeners.

This toilet tank water service line is pretty easy to check

• It's recommended that washing machine hoses be replaced every 5 years or less. Perhaps doing it every Leap Year is a good way to remember, or write the date for the hose to be changed on a piece of masking tape and stick it on the hose to remind yourself.

Do you this washing machine water service hose is a ticking time bomb?

• If possible, install a shut off valve to the washing machine supply line so that when the machine is not in use, the valve can be closed. It may be an inconvenience but remember that washing machine hoses are the biggest culprit when it comes to water escape in the home, and a 5/8' line can spew 48 litres per minute if completely compromised. You can also get an electronic monitor which shuts off the supply line and gives an audible alarm to indicate an issue.

This little gadget detects abnormal water flow and shuts off the service line automatically.

• Use braided lines for water service lines, as the braiding will act as a backup to the rubber line inside. You may still get a leak and know that something in the water line has been compromised, but at least the braiding will help prevent catastrophic failures from occurring.

Braided lines are better than rubber only lines.

• If you plan to be away on holidays, even for a few days, shut off your water service line where it enters the house. Should something happen, the water leak will be limited to just the water remaining in the lines.

Everyone in your home should be familiar with the location and understand the operation of this valve