Water Not Running? Here Are a Few Explanations
Access to reliable running water is a luxury many of us take for granted each and every day. So, when your water stops running from the faucets, it can be cause for concern.
If your water suddenly stops running, the first thing you should do is not panic. Common reasons for the water to shut off include a closed valve, a water heater malfunction, leaky pipe, or an issue with your water supply. Try troubleshooting the problem with these helpful tips.
What to do if your water won’t run
- Is it the water source or the faucet? Finding the source of the problem is step one. Check a different faucet in your home. If the water flows fine, you’ll be able to focus your attention on the faulty faucet only. Check for a bent or broken component, and make sure the valve under the sink is open to allow for water to pass through. If the faucet itself is broken, you will need to replace it with a new fixture.
- Check the water main. If the problem occurs in all the faucets in your home, your water supply might be to blame. Locate the water main (typically along the perimeter of your home, ground-level) and be sure it is open. If the valve is somehow turned to closed, it will prevent any water from flowing into your home’s plumbing system. Open the line all the way and recheck your faucets.
- Compare hot vs. cold. Does your water run cold but won’t flow when turned to hot? If so, your water heater could be malfunctioning. Water heaters can sometimes fail to function properly. Check the appliance to make sure it is powered on and inspect the water heater for leaks, cracks, or sediment buildup. If the water heater is on and adequately powered and still not providing water flow, you might want to perform a thorough flush of the system. Be careful while doing this task and follow the instructions on the water heater panel or the user manual.
- Is a leak to blame? Check your plumbing for signs of leaks or dents. Follow your plumbing water supply from the main water line up, inspecting the pipes for condensation, dripping, or dents. A large leak or significant dent in a pipe can block water from going through to where it needs to go.
- Check with the water company. If none of the above seem to be the issue, give your local water company a call. There might be maintenance occurring in the area requiring the water company to turn water off to your home temporarily. Check with the water company to see if the problem is out of your hands entirely.
When to call a plumber
Still not sure what the issue is? Then it’s time to bring a professional to figure out why your water isn’t running. In the Schererville area, the team to trust is Reichelt Plumbing. To schedule an appointment, call us today at (219) 322-4906.