The thin copper pipes that carry hot and cold water in most homes are normally durable and long-lasting, but sometimes develop leaks that can cause severe damage. Pipe leaks are especially common during cold weather, when frozen water in the pipes can cause pipe walls to crack or poorly soldered joints to loosen.

Do-it-yourselfers can sometimes make temporary repairs to keep water pipes in service until permanent repairs are made by replacing damaged pipe and fittings. Temporary pipe leak repairs allow toilets, sinks and other plumbing fixtures to remain in use.

Before temporary pipe repairs are discussed, however, another point for dealing with a water emergency should be stressed: Every occupant of a home, including older children, should know the location of the main water valve and know how to turn it off. Simply turning off the water at the main valve can prevent a burst pipe or other plumbing emergency, such as an overflowing toilet or tub, from becoming a home flood.
There is no standard location for a main water valve, but in homes with basements it is usually near the water meter or water pump. In other homes, the main valve is sometimes under the kitchen sink. If in doubt about the location of the valve, have it pointed out the next time a plumber visits the home.

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Plumbing is a well-compensated career. Plumbers are needed to install or fix gas, waste and water system in residences and business establishments which make it a very sought-after job in the market. While being a plumber requires mental and physical abilities, what most people don’t know is that plumbing is a very rewarding work. Plumbers typically earn an hourly rate between $10 and $30. So if you are considering entering a plumbing career, here are some few ways to help you how to become a successful plumber.

The first step is to make an assessment of yourself. Do you really want to be a plumber all your life? Do you see your future with a plumbing business? Do you think that this job can live up to your job satisfaction? If you really want this career, pause and reflect. Not all people are suitable for the same job. Make a deeper examination if plumbing will surely suit you, mentally and physically. You must also finish your high school if you want to pursue a career in this field. Since this job needs mental disposition, problem solving and mathematical aptitudes are important along with the ability to work well with people and manual handiness.

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