Start off by looking at the indoor plumbing that is part of the infrastructure of your home.
1. Check to see if the main shut-off valve in your home is in good working order by shutting it on and off. This is important in case one of your appliances malfunctions or if one of your pipes cracks in freezing weather and starts leaking.
2. Examine your water pipes, especially the ones in the attic and basement as these are the ones that are most likely to freeze and burst in cold temperatures. Call a plumber immediately for repairs if a pipe seems to be moist around the joints or leaking.
3. Inspect all of the drains in your home, including those in all sinks, all food and hair traps and any catch-all basins in the floor. One clogged drain can cause a disastrous flooding of your entire home as well as encourage the growth of smelly bacteria.
You should then examine your bathroom and kitchen fixtures for signs of wear and tear.
1. Check to see if you have any leaking faucets in the kitchen, bathroom or laundry room. Leaky can suddenly pop and cause flooding in your home. Tighten connectors with a wrench if necessary or call a professional to do this for you. While you are at it, inspect your outdoor garden faucets and sprinkler heads to prevent the freezing of pipes and hoses.
2. Inspect your showerheads. Leaking showerheads can give out entirely, causing flooding and damage.
3. Make sure your toilet is not sweating on the outside of the tank. This is an indication it is not working properly. If your toilet runs constantly, it may also be clogged and prone to flooding. You must also make sure that your toilet is not loose and that it sits perpendicular to the wall. Any shakiness of the seat or tank or warping of tiles can mean a potential flood.
Your last step will be to examine your appliances to make sure they are in good working order.
1. Examine your dishwasher, making sure the hoses are not worn or torn and that it is drain is clear. This is important because flooded dishwashers can also catch on fire.
2. If you have a garbage disposal make sure that, it is not clogged with debris. One way to clean a garbage disposal is to drop ice cubes with a bit of baking soda and vinegar and turn it on.
This is also crucial if you have no idea where the shut-off valve is in your home. A professional can easily help you locate it, (usually it’s hidden in a dark enclave or corner) and teach you how to shut off.
