Water leaks under the sink are a common problem in many homes. Although they may seem benign at first, they can quickly cause significant damage if they are not taken care of quickly. In this context, it is important to know how to react before the arrival of a plumber in order to limit the risk of property damage and avoid unnecessary expenses. What are the possible causes of leakage under the sink? What are the actions to be taken urgently and the professionals to contact for a sustainable repair?
What are the causes of water leakage under the sink?
Leaks under the sink can be caused by several factors, often related to wear and tear or faulty installations. Here are the main reasons:
- Wear of gaskets or pipes;
- Ill-tight connections;
- Blockages or obstructions;
- Defect of sanitary equipment.
Wear of joints or pipes
Over time, rubber, plastic or metal seals deteriorate, which can cause leaks. Similarly, pipes can crack due to age or temperature variations.
Ill-tight connections
During the initial installation or previous repairs, a poorly tightened connection between the pipes and accessories can be the cause of water leaks.
Blockage or obstructions
Plugs in pipes can cause excessive pressure. This can cause leaks, especially at the connecters or joints.
Defect of sanitary facilities
Leaks can also come from equipment such as the syphon, faucet or drain, which can be poorly installed or damaged.
What are the measures to be taken in the event of a leak according to the experts?
When a water leak is detected under the sink, it is important to act quickly to limit the damage. Here are some steps recommended by plumbing experts:
- Cut off the water : The first thing to do in case of a leak is to cut off the water supply. You have to look for the main stopcock of the house. If the leak comes from a specific pipe under the sink, there is usually a dedicated stopcock to isolate the area concerned.
- Empty the space under the sink : Remove items stored under the sink, such as cleaning products, pots and other items. This not only avoids material damage but also provides better visibility of the leak.
- Attempt to locate the leak : If the leak is visible, it may be possible to determine its source. Sometimes it is enough to slightly tighten the connections or adjust the seal to stop the flow temporarily.
- Protect the floor and furniture : Use towels, cloths or a bucket to limit water splashes. Depending on the extent of the leak, you can also place a basin or container under the leak to contain water.
- Avoid the use of electrical appliances : If water has infiltrated near electrical outlets or an electronic device, immediately unplug the appliances and turn off the power supply if necessary to avoid any risk of short circuit or electrocution.
- Note the details of the leak : Prepare useful information for the plumber, such as the exact location of the leak, the duration of the drain and any emergency measures you have taken. This information will help the professional understand the extent of the problem.
According to plumbing experts, the leak situation can be better managed if these steps are well followed.
You can also read : How to protect your pipes from frost in winter?
Who to contact in case of emergency?
In the event of a leak under the sink, it is essential to call on a professional plumber for a lasting repair. But depending on the urgency, there are several options.
The Plumber in emergency
If the leak is significant and the damage is likely to be considerable, we recommend contacting a plumber urgently. Many plumbers offer rapid intervention services, available 24/7. You can contact them via online platforms or directly by phone.
Home insurance
If the leak causes significant property damage, you can also contact your home insurance. Some insurance companies cover the costs of repairs after an emergency intervention by an authorised plumber. Remember to check the conditions of your contract.
Certified professionals
When looking for a plumber, it is best to call on a certified and recommended professional. Check customer reviews and make sure they have the necessary qualifications to intervene effectively.
This content may interest you : Pipe materials compared : copper, PER or multilayer?
What to remember?
A water leak under the sink, although frequent, can quickly become a major problem if it is not taken care of in time. By cutting off the water, protecting your property and calling on a qualified plumber, you can limit the damage and solve the situation quickly. Finally, it is also necessary to understand the potential causes of a leak to prevent it from happening again in the future, and thus keep the plumbing in your home in good condition.