Leaks can happen anytime, anywhere in your house where water is a common factor. Not only is this a hassle to deal with, extra worries add to the situation when electricity is around. This is a dangerous situation, which could be potentially harmful or fatal. What do you do in the event of a leak, and how do you deal with a leak when an electric source is present?
Leaks and Electricity
If water and electricity were to go on a date, they would be perfect for each other – the sparks would be flying. Water, and the contaminants it contains, is a conductor of electricity, meaning water can carry electricity to anything it touches, including you. In the event of a leak in your house or building, the first thing to be done is to examine the area for any source of electricity that could possibly lead to an interaction between the two. Check the area for outlets, protected wires, exposed wiring, any electrical appliances or items, or switches. With the result being possible electrocution, water and electricity are not two elements to play around with.
Precautions
In the case of a leak, there are many things you should keep an eye out for. There is no such thing as being too prepared for an event, especially one that may involve possible electrocution. Be aware of your surroundings, no matter where you are. Remember that water can be anywhere; so can electricity. Follow these precautions when interacting with electricity or water:
- Be aware of possible interaction between water and electricity in every room
- Never use an electrical tool, appliance, or gadget near water
- Never let your electrical outlet get wet
- Do not touch anything electrical while wet
- Do not leave an electrical item in a place where getting wet is possible, like near a bath tub or sink
- Never leave your child unattended near electrical appliances.
- Do not use electrical items in bathroom areas that weren’t made to be used in a bathroom, like a hair straightener, dryer, or curler
- Use electric hair tools with caution
- Dispose of your electrical item immediately if it becomes immersed in water
- Do not use extension cords or power strips in wet areas
How to Find a Leak On Your Own
If you have a leak, you may be wasting money and paying extra money for your water bill. To locate a leak, check your water meter and wait two hours without using any water. If the meter has changed in the two hours, then you have a leak. The most common leaks are from toilets and faucets.
If your leak is from your toilet, determine if it is from an old flapper in your toilet tank. This fix is just a simple replacement from your local hardware store.
If your faucet is leaking, it may be due to the common frequency of leakage from washers and gaskets. Determine where the leak is coming from and turn off the water before you start. Remove the parts around the leak’s area and inspect for damage, rough spots, or anything that could disturb a watertight seal. If you find anything that could disturb the watertight seal and is not able to be fixed at home, you can find a replacement at your local hardware store.
Recap
Remember, never let electricity come in contact with a leak, or the results can be shocking. If you need assistance in the event of attempting to fix a leak, call a professional for your plumbing needs. Call a professional right away if the leak or any body of water is close to electricity. For questions regarding water, electricity, leaks, or any of your plumbing needs, contact Accutech today.