Preventing Water Main Breaks: Maintenance Tips for Hagerstown Residents

Nobody wants to deal with the mess, expense, and inconvenience of a water main break—it can turn your day upside down in no time. But here’s the good news: with proactive maintenance and water main repair, you can significantly lower the risk of a break and keep your water system running smoothly. 

What Causes Water Main Breaks in Hagerstown?

Water main breaks can be attributed to several factors:

• Aging Infrastructure: Many cities, including Hagerstown, have decades-old water pipes, which are more susceptible to breaks and ruptures.

• Temperature Fluctuations: Extreme temperature changes, especially during winter, can cause water to freeze and expand within pipes, leading to increased pressure and potential breaks.

• Soil Conditions: The acidity and moisture content of the surrounding soil can affect metal pipes, potentially causing corrosion and weakening.

• Construction Activities: Accidental damage during excavation or construction work can result in water main breaks if proper precautions are not taken.
  

How Do Seasonal Changes Affect Water Pipes?

In winter, freezing temperatures can cause water inside pipes to freeze and expand, leading to bursts. Pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces and attics are especially at risk.

Rising temperatures often reveal cracks or leaks in previously frozen pipes during spring. Increased rainfall can also strain drainage systems and lead to basement flooding.

In summer, higher water usage for activities like gardening or filling pools puts added pressure on plumbing systems, potentially causing fluctuations in water pressure.

Fall brings challenges, too, as falling leaves can clog gutters and drains, increasing the risk of water damage. Temperature swings between day and night can also cause pipes to expand and contract, adding stress to the system.

8 Maintenance Tips for Hagerstown Residents

• Drain Outdoor Water Lines: Disconnect and drain garden hoses and shut off water supply valves to outdoor faucets. Leave outdoor faucets open to let any remaining water expand without damaging the pipes.
  
• Maintain Indoor Heat: Keep your home’s thermostat above 55°F, even when you’re not home, to prevent freezing. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
  
• Let Faucets Drip: During icy spells, let cold water drip from faucets connected to exposed pipes. The flowing water helps prevent freezing.
  
• Know Your Shut-Off Valve: Locate your main water shut-off valve and ensure it’s easy to access in an emergency, like a burst pipe.
  
• Monitor Pressure Levels: Use a pressure gauge to check your home’s water pressure regularly. High pressure can strain pipes and fixtures, increasing the risk of leaks or bursts.
  
• Install a Pressure Regulator: If your water pressure consistently exceeds 60 psi, consider installing a pressure regulator to keep levels safe and protect your pipes.
  
• Inspect for Leaks: Check for leaks in your plumbing system after extreme weather. Addressing small issues quickly can prevent larger problems caused by fluctuating pressures.
  
• Avoid Overuse During Storms: Limit water use during heavy rain or storms to reduce stress on your plumbing and prevent backups.

3 Proactive Steps to Protect Your Water Pipes

1. Inspecting Your Home’s Plumbing System Regularly

Regularly inspecting your home’s plumbing system is essential for catching potential problems early and keeping your pipes in good condition. Start by visually inspecting exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and under sinks. 

Look for any signs of corrosion, leaks, or physical damage. Next, test your water pressure with a gauge to ensure it stays within the safe range of 40-80 psi. Pay attention to unusual sounds from your pipes, such as banging or whistling, as these can indicate underlying issues. 

For a comprehensive evaluation, it’s a good idea to schedule an annual inspection with our expert PlumbingWurx team, who can identify and address problems you might overlook.

2. How to Identify Early Signs of Pipe Wear and Tear

Spotting warning signs of pipe wear can save you from costly repairs down the line. Keep an eye out for discolored water, such as a rusty or brown tint, which could mean your pipes are corroding.

Slow drains might indicate a buildup or damage within the pipes, while water stains or damp spots on walls and ceilings are often signs of hidden leaks. Fluctuating water pressure may point to pipe damage or blockages, and unusual odors from drains can signal sewer line problems. 

If you notice a sudden spike in your water bill without any increase in usage, you may have a hidden leak.

3. Why Insulation is Essential for Exposed Pipes

Insulating exposed pipes is a simple yet crucial step in protecting your plumbing system. 

During cold weather, insulation prevents pipes from freezing and bursting, saving you from costly repairs and water damage. It also improves energy efficiency by helping hot water pipes retain heat, potentially lowering your energy bills. Insulation reduces condensation on cold water pipes, which can otherwise lead to water damage and mold growth. 

By safeguarding pipes against temperature extremes, insulation extends their lifespan and ensures consistent performance.

What to Do in Case of a Water Main Break

If you encounter a water main break, take the following steps:

• Assess the situation: Determine the severity of the break and potential dangers to your property or surrounding areas.

• Report the break: Call your local water utility and our qualified PlumbingWurx team to report the leak immediately.

• Contain the overflow: If possible, use sandbags or absorbent materials to contain the water overflow.

• Protect your property: Move valuable items to higher ground if flooding is a concern.

• Stay clear of the area: Water main breaks can create unsafe conditions, so keep a safe distance.

How to Shut Off Your Water Supply in an Emergency

In case of a plumbing emergency, follow these steps to shut off your water supply:

• Locate the main shut-off valve: It’s typically near the water meter, often in a covered box on the side of your house.

• Turn the valve clockwise: Use a wrench if necessary to turn the valve until it’s fully closed.

• Verify the water is off: Check faucets to ensure water flow has stopped.

• If you can’t find the valve: As a last resort, locate the curb stop access meter box and turn the valve clockwise using a wrench or screwdriver.

Consider installing an automatic shut-off valve for added protection. This device detects leaks and automatically shuts off the water supply, preventing extensive damage. Our experienced professionals can help you choose the right device and install it quickly and efficiently, giving you peace of mind and added protection for your home.

Who to Call for Immediate Assistance in Hagerstown

Acting quickly is essential in a water main break or plumbing emergency to minimize damage and ensure a fast resolution: 

• City Water Department: For main breaks or issues with city water lines, contact the City of Hagerstown Water Division to report the problem.
  
• Emergency Plumber: If the issue affects your home’s plumbing system, call a local 24/7 emergency plumbing service. Our PlumbingWurx team is here to help resolve your plumbing emergency efficiently with fast, professional assistance.
  
• Fire Department: In severe cases where flooding threatens your safety or property, contact the Hagerstown Fire Department.

Protect Your Pipes Today – Call PlumbingWurx!

At PlumbingWurx, we’re prepared to assist with plumbing emergencies, including water main breaks, leaks, and flooding. Our team is equipped to act quickly and provide expert solutions to protect your home and restore your plumbing system. 

Keep our number handy so you can rely on us when you need it most.

Call us now or visit our website to get started! With our experience in both residential and commercial plumbing, we’re equipped to handle all types of plumbing concerns.

Don’t let a minor issue become a big problem. Contact us today at (301) 264-7577 or visit us at 1044 Virginia Ave, Hagerstown, MD 21740. We’re a family-owned business and pride ourselves on our quality craft and top-notch customer service!