1Turn off water main
2Drain system
3Relieve pressure
4 Find source of leak
PLUMBING PROBLEMS
187
LEAKING CEILING
1Turn off water main
• Go to the main shutoff valve and turn off the water.
2Drain system
• Turn off the boiler to keep the pipes from overheating.
• Run the faucets upstairs and flush toilets fed by the water tank to reduce the water level in the tank.
3Relieve pressure
• Use a bucket to catch water leaking from the ceiling.
• If there is a hairline crack, enlarge it with a screwdriver to increase the flow and reduce the weight of water on the ceiling.
• If the ceiling is bulging, put more buckets in place, then punch a hole.
Enlarge the crack in the ceiling with a screwdriver
• Pipe repair tape
• Pipe-thread seal tape
• Pipe wrench
• Sink plunger
ESSENTIALS
PLUMBING TOOL KIT
• Vise grips
• Closet auger
• Bolts with rubber and metal washers
• Epoxy resin sealant
4 Find source of leak
• If the water is coming through the ceiling, check the room or the
apartment above.
• If the water is coming from the attic area, check for a burst pipe
or damage to the water tank and fix any leak( p. 188 and below). If the pipes and tank are sound, look for holes in the roof itself and repair if necessary( p. 206).
! Dangers of water and electricity
• If water is dripping from a light fixture or onto an electrical appliance, do not touch
the switch, the light fixture, or the appliance. Turn off the power at the circuit breaker or fuse box and call an electrician immediately.
FIXING A LEAKING COLD WATER TANK
Some homes have a tank with a pump for constant house pressure. Others may have a repairable reservoir in the attic or basement.
• Shut the main valve. Arrange for disposal of cold water.
• Close the hot water valve at the hot water tank. Then open the drain valve of the cold water tank.
• Flush toilets, then open all cold water faucets.
• Plug a small hole by drilling and inserting a bolt with
rubber stops on either side. For corner hole, wipe dry; use an epoxy resin sealant.
Put rubber and metal washers on both sides of the hole
Insert a bolt into the hole