Water leaks can cause expensive repairs and months of disruption. Many start small — a slow drip under a sink, a hidden pipe crack behind a wall, or a failed pressure valve that goes unnoticed until damage spreads. With a few preventive steps, you can avoid emergencies, save money, and protect your home.
Here’s a simple, proven five-step plan used by professional plumbers across Seattle, Kirkland, and Bellevue to keep homes leak-free and pressure under control.
Step 1: Find and Test Your Main Shut-Off Valve Before an Emergency
The main water shut-off valve is the single most important control in your home. When a pipe bursts or a leak appears, shutting off water fast can prevent thousands in damage. Many homeowners discover their valve for the first time only after water starts pouring out.
The valve is usually located near where the water line enters your home — often in a basement, garage, or utility area. It can also be outside near the foundation or meter box.
Once you find it, turn it off and check if it stops water flow completely. Open a faucet inside your home to test it. If water keeps running or the valve feels stuck, it may be worn out. Old gate-style valves, common in older Seattle homes, often seize or fail to close fully after years of use.
If your valve doesn’t fully shut off, have a plumber replace it with a modern ball valve. These are easier to operate, last longer, and shut off water with a simple quarter turn. Label the valve with a bright tag or sticker so every family member knows where it is and how to use it.
Step 2: Inspect Angle Stops Under Sinks and Behind Toilets for Signs of Wear
Each sink, toilet, and fixture in your home has a small shut-off valve called an angle stop. These let you turn off water to a single fixture without affecting the rest of the house. They’re your second line of defense when a leak starts.
Angle stops are easy to forget about because they stay hidden and untouched for years. But over time, their rubber seals dry out, metal parts corrode, and handles can seize in place. Old multi-turn valves are especially prone to leaking around the stem once they’re moved after long periods of inactivity.
Inspect each valve once or twice a year. Gently turn them to make sure they still move. If you see any signs of corrosion, mineral buildup, or dripping, have them replaced. Modern quarter-turn valves are more reliable and less likely to leak.
Step 3: Watch Your Water Bill for Sudden Spikes That Signal Hidden Leaks
Many leaks start silently. A small crack in a pipe behind drywall or a slow drip under the slab can waste hundreds of gallons before you ever see it. One of the easiest ways to catch hidden leaks early is by watching your water bill.
Keep a record of your average monthly usage. If your bill suddenly jumps without any change in household habits, something may be wrong. Even a constant trickle from a running toilet can waste thousands of gallons a month.
You can also check your water meter directly. Turn off all faucets and appliances, then look at the meter dial. If it’s still moving, you have a leak somewhere in your system.
If you suspect a hidden leak, call a licensed plumber for a pressure test or leak detection service. Finding the source early prevents structural damage, mold growth, and wasted water.
Step 4: Use a Pressure Gauge to Make Sure Your System Stays Below 80 PSI
Water pressure plays a major role in the health of your plumbing system. Too little pressure makes showers weak and appliances slow to fill. Too much pressure wears out pipes, fittings, and water heaters — and increases the chance of leaks.
In many parts of Seattle and the Eastside, city water pressure can reach 100 PSI or higher. The safe range for a home is between 40 and 80 PSI. Anything above 80 can shorten the lifespan of your plumbing system.
You can buy a simple pressure gauge at any hardware store for about $15. Connect it to an outdoor hose bib and read the dial. If pressure is consistently high, ask a plumber to install or inspect your pressure-reducing valve (PRV). This small device automatically keeps your home’s pressure at a safe, steady level.
A healthy PRV protects your fixtures and extends the life of your pipes. It also prevents loud water noises and sudden pressure surges that stress joints and connections.
Step 5: Call a Trusted Plumber for a Full Inspection Every Few Years
Even with regular checks, some issues can only be spotted by trained eyes and professional tools. A qualified plumber can evaluate your system, identify weak points, and give you clear recommendations for maintenance or replacement.
A full inspection usually includes:
- Checking all visible supply lines for corrosion or wear.
- Testing shut-off valves for function and leaks.
- Measuring water pressure and PRV performance.
- Inspecting fixtures, toilets, and appliances for drips or inefficiency.
- Looking for signs of slow leaks in crawl spaces or walls.
Regular inspections help prevent emergencies and extend the life of your plumbing system. They also reduce long-term costs by catching issues before they cause major damage.
Why Preventive Steps Matter
Preventing leaks isn’t just about avoiding mess and repairs. It’s about protecting your comfort, safety, and home value. Water damage is one of the most expensive home repairs, and it often starts from something small: a weak valve, old seal, or unnoticed pressure issue.
By taking small, routine steps, you keep control of your plumbing system and reduce stress during emergencies. You also save water, lower utility costs, and avoid the frustration of repeat problems.
When to Call a Professional Right Away
Call a plumber immediately if you notice:
- Constant sound of running water when no fixtures are on.
- Warm spots on floors, which may indicate a slab leak.
- Low water pressure in some areas of the home.
- Stains, bubbling paint, or musty smells on walls or ceilings.
- A pressure gauge reading consistently over 80 PSI.
If you live in Seattle, Kirkland, or Bellevue and want a professional plumber to check for potential water leaks, RooterPal can help. Our licensed team performs detailed home inspections, pressure testing, and repairs to keep your plumbing safe and efficient.