Don’t Forget Your Plumbing Preventative Maintenance Checklist!
As you are starting your spring cleaning, don’t forget to make a plumbing preventative maintenance checklist, too. Many of the items on the list are things you can check yourself, and a few are ones for which you will want to contact a local plumber and arrange a plumbing inspection.
Water Pressure
Most homes have a water pressure regulator on the main water pipeline that comes into the home. If the regulator is wearing out, the pressure can fluctuate. You can have your plumber check the pressure regulator to make sure it is set correctly and does not need to be replaced.
Water Leaks
Check for water leaks in different areas of the home. Open up cabinets and look for water stains or moisture under sinks. Check under toilet tanks and around the base of toilet bowls for moisture, dripping water, or water stains. Remember to check exposed plumbing pipes in your basement or crawl space. If you have dripping faucets, have those repaired or replaced.
Hot Water Heater
Inspect your hot water heater for signs of corrosion. Listen to the tank as it heats up the water. Are there any strange popping, cracking, or other sounds that do not seem normal? These sounds indicate the heater is nearing the end of its useful life and will need to be replaced.
Additionally, check for leaks around the base of the tank or water stains in the overflow drain pan. If the water heater is leaking, it can be a safety hazard and should be replaced. You can also have your plumber perform a safety release test on the heater to make sure the regulator is working correctly.
Drains
Does water drain slowly? Try using a plunger to see if this helps increase the drain flow rate. If not, you will want to get help from your plumber and have drain lines cleaned. You should never use chemical-based drain cleaners, as these are not environmentally friendly and can damage certain types of plumbing lines.
Septic System
If your home has a septic system, the spring is a great time to have your septic tank inspected and drained if it is getting full. You do not want to wait until it is overflowing raw sewage into your yard and backing up the sewer and drain lines into the home.
Sewer Lines
You should get your sewer lines professionally inspected. Many plumbers have a camera they can put into the lines through the overflow cap. The camera lets them see if there are cracked sewer lines, tree roots, or other problems that need to be repaired.
Safety Valves
It is a good idea to check the safety shut off valves and verify they are working correctly. You should turn the valves to the off position, then turn on the water. If water still continues to flow at a steady rate, the valve needs to be replaced.For professional assistance in completing your spring cleaning plumbing preventative maintenance checklist and a detailed plumbing inspection for your home, please feel free to contact MET Plumbing & Air Conditioning at 281-599-3336 today! We can also take care of your spring air conditioning maintenance to keep you cool all summer long!
