Mobile Home Maintenance and Repair

We assembled a collection of tutorials on mobile home maintenance and repair to keep your home in top shape.

How to Prevent Leaks in Your Mobile Home

Checking for Leaks

One of the first steps in maintaining your mobile home’s plumbing system is to check for leaks. After turning the water on to the rest of the house, go around to all sinks and toilets to ensure the water lines are secure and not leaking. If any water lines have come loose, you’ll notice pooling water, which can quickly escalate into a more serious issue.

Water Line Valves: Turning On and Off

In a mobile home, the water lines usually have built-in valves for easy control. Knowing how to manipulate these valves is crucial if you need to isolate a leak or perform maintenance. For instance, to shut off the water line near your toilet, simply turn the valve clockwise. Underneath your kitchen sink, you might find similar valves. To turn the water off, pull the valve out, and push it in to turn it back on.

Spotting Trouble Under the Sink

Another potential trouble spot in your mobile home is underneath the kitchen sink. It’s essential to regularly check this area for any pooling water or drips. If you spot a leak, locate the valve and turn it off as quickly as possible to prevent water damage.

Where to Find the Water Shut-Off in Your Mobile Home

The Importance of the Main Water Cut-Off Valve

Located generally in the laundry room, the main water cut-off valve is an important feature in mobile homes. If you find that there’s no water flow in the house, this valve could be your first port of call. Being knowledgeable about its location and operation can save you time and unnecessary hassle. Usually, you can find it near the plumbing for your washer and dryer. It is typically situated right above the drain and plumbing lines for these appliances.

Turning Water On and Off

To restore or cut off water supply throughout your mobile home, all you need to do is manipulate this main valve. The operation is quite simple:

• To Turn On: Make sure the valve is aligned parallel to the plumbing line. This opens the valve, allowing water to be distributed throughout the house.

• To Turn Off: If you need to stop water flow for any reason — perhaps for maintenance, repairs, or in case of a leak — simply turn the valve so that it is perpendicular to the line. This shuts off the water supply to the entire home.

Additional Tips

It’s a good idea to periodically check the main valve for signs of wear and tear or corrosion, as this could affect its function. You may want to exercise the valve a couple of times a year to ensure it turns easily. If it’s hard to turn, a little spray lubricant can go a long way.