What to do when there is a water leak in the light fixture

 The last thing we want to see in our homes is water where it shouldn't be. Leaks can mean costly repairs and headaches galore, but they're much more of a concern when they're coming from a light fixture. If you notice water dripping from a light in your home, it's something you can't ignore and should address immediately because of the dangers this problem can pose.

To help you deal with this situation, we will explain what can cause these types of leaks, why they are so dangerous and what you should do when you see water dripping from a light.

Causes of leaks

Although every situation is different, there are some common causes of leaks in a home. Diagnosing the exact problem can be difficult for the average homeowner, so we recommend consulting a professional to make sure the problem is identified and treated correctly.

Broken pipes

One of the most common causes of water leaking through a light fitting is a burst pipe. Water pipes run throughout the house, which means that if one bursts, the leak could occur anywhere, even behind the lights.

Damaged roof

After a nasty storm or simply because of the passage of time, leaks can start to appear in the roof. If you notice that the leak behind your light fitting appears while it is raining or shortly after, it could be a good sign that the problem has something to do with your roof. If this is the case, it is best to call in a professional roofing company to fix the problem once you have ruled out plumbing problems.

 Leaking fixtures

When you notice that the leak is coming from the light fixture, think about what may be above it. Is it under a bathroom, laundry room or kitchen? Fixtures and appliances such as showers, toilets, dishwashers, sinks, etc. can have problems and leak. If the appliance is right above the light, water will run down through the floor and become visible there.

What to do

 So what should you do when you notice a water leak at or near a luminaire? The first thing to do is to check for any smell or sign of smoke. If so, evacuate and call the emergency services immediately, as a fire may be starting.

 If there is no smoke, it is best to call a plumber, preferably one that offers 24/7 emergency services if the leak is occurring outside working hours. While waiting for them, turn off the electricity through the circuit breaker box, as well as the water supply through the outside meter. 

Call the Emergency Plumber in Birmingham. We are available around the clock.