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March Dates to Remember

Prevent leaks from wreaking havoc at your properties

Plumbing leaks in homes you list could dampen the interest of potential buyers. Be prepared for such situations by knowing the signs and symptoms of a leak ahead of time, says Harry Ragsdale, owner of American Leak Detection.

“Whatever the source, water leaks are a serious matter because of the structural damage they can do to your home,” Ragsdale says.

• You know you have a plumbing leak if:
• You can hear the continuous sound of water (like a toilet running) when nothing is turned on.
• Your water bill escalates over a period of weeks or months. (Compare bills month to month.)
• Your walls or floors have wet, spongy, moist or discolored areas when nothing has been spilled.
• You can smell foul odors coming from floors or walls near drains or sewers.
• Your building foundation cracks, vegetation grows unevenly or earth shifts for no apparent reason.
• You find warm spots on your floor, particularly on concrete slab floors.

Ragsdale also encourages homeowners and listing agents to periodically check for hidden leaks by turning off faucets, all water-using appliances and not flushing toilets for one hour.

"Record the water meter reading. If the flow indicator (triangular or diamond-shaped rotating button) is spinning or the meter reading has changed while no water is being used, a leaking pipe may exist,” Ragsdale says. “Also, it's important to know where the main water shut-off valve is located in your home and check it frequently to make sure it’s operational.”

Visit American Leak Detection’s Web site (www.americanleakdetection.com) to use its online water meter test as a preventative measure. Follow the easy steps to find out if you have a leak in a pressurized water system or if you have a running toilet that should be serviced.

For more information, contact Ragsdale at (919) 877-9797 or hragsdal@bellsouth.net.

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Put Balance in Your Life

The Key to Higher Performance

Welcome New Members

Seven Secrets to Resilience During Difficult Times

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