The Only Preventive Plumbing Maintenance Checklist You Need

Home plumbing maintenance can be an arduous task, but investing a few afternoons of your time every few months in its care will prevent small issues from turning into major catastrophes.

In this article, we’ve compiled a checklist for you to streamline plumbing maintenance.

Looking to avoid big plumbing problems? Regular check-ups can go a long way—reach out to reliable plumbers in Missoula to keep things in top shape.

Check water pressure

Various issues may cause low water pressure. These could include clogs or the build-up of minerals in your drain, which may reduce its flow rate, usually corrected with vinegar or baking soda drain cleaners. If these fail, calling a professional plumber may be necessary to clear away obstructions from your pipes.

Low water pressure may also be due to leaks in your plumbing lines, resulting in costly repair bills and structural damage to your home.

Elevated water pressure may also be problematic since it can cause harm to pipes by causing them to flex and bend, which can lead to gradual loosening. Furthermore, this excessively high level can create “water hammers,” banging sounds inside pipes known as bangers that rattle against each other when turned on or off.

A pressure gauge is an easy and accurate way to check water pressure, available from most hardware or home improvement stores. To ensure a precise test, ensure all faucets, showerheads, dishwashers, washing machines, refrigerator ice makers and sprinklers are switched off before conducting this test.

Check water heater

An integral component of a preventative plumbing maintenance inspection is checking the water heater. 

As part of this examination, its pressure should be tested, any leaks or signs of corrosion noted, and it should also be flushed to rid of sediment which causes corrosion and shortens its life span.

Check faucets and fixtures

Leaky faucets are costly to repair and can also prove detrimental for individuals and businesses due to water wastage and energy costs. 

Leaks may cause corrosion damage to furniture and flooring and increase energy costs significantly; this leaves owners and businesses with no choice but to use more resources than necessary to rectify them.

That’s why regularly checking faucets and fixtures for problems is an important preventative measure.

Check drains

Maintenance plans that address plumbing require keeping drains free from obstruction to prevent slow or stopped-up water flow and extend their lifespan. Check tub, shower, and sink drains regularly for signs of slow drainage or gurgling to detect blockages; prevent hair, soap scum, or food debris from going down drains to keep them clear.

Test all drains regularly to ensure proper functioning, and schedule any that require hydrojetting or power rodding services as necessary. Maintaining sewer lines will prevent sewer drain stoppages by catching any blockages before they turn into full-fledged clogs. 

If your building uses backflow prevention devices, arrange annual testing sessions to ensure they function efficiently.  To find out more about Melbourne plumbing services check out Inner City Plumbing.

Regular plumbing inspections and repairs will save money, give peace of mind, and help protect property value – not forgetting to preserve our precious water resources!