If your home is aging, the odds are that eventually you will need to either repair or replace a water main. The water main is an important lifeline, so be sure to keep it in good condition to avoid debilitating problems.
Whether you are building a new home, replacing an old water main, or making repairs to an existing water main, you will need a plumbing contractor’s help. Since individual water supply lines are connected to city water mains, there are some important things to consider before you get started.
Notify Public Works Department
Be sure to notify the public works department so that they can mark any existing lines that might be nearby. Digging is usually part of the work process, so it is important that no power, gas, or other lines are damaged as repairs or installation are taking place.
Be sure to follow ordinances and if you need a permit for the work that needs to be done, be sure to get it before beginning work, in order to avoid fines.
The plumbing contractor you select should be able to assist you with this process, since he or she is familiar with the ordinances in .
What You Should Know
Many homeowners take their water supply for granted, and are often unprepared for problems when they do arise. One of the biggest problems that can occur is water damage that happens between the time a problem is detected, and the plumber actually arrives.
- Main Water Shutoff Valve — Do you know where your shutoff valve is located? If not, find out, right away. If your home is within city limits and has a water meter, the shutoff valve is very likely to be located near or with the meter.
- How Do You Turn Off The Valve? — There are different kinds of main water shutoff valves. Some have a handle that can be turned off, while others have a flange that requires a wrench. Identify which type you have, and if you need a wrench, be sure to keep one in a location you can access if you have a problem and need to shut off the valve.
- Site Plans and Water Supply Diagram — If you do not have site plans and a water supply diagram for your house, be sure to get them. In the event of an emergency, it is best to know exactly where everything is located. Your plumber will be able to work much more quickly and stop damage from occurring — so be sure to have these available.