Plumbing Maintenance Checklist for Homeowners
Homeowners can have a working plumbing system throughout the year with regular upkeep and maintenance.
Homeowners can have a working plumbing system throughout the year with regular upkeep and maintenance. Plumbing maintenance should be done regularly as it does not take much time and will help prevent any plumbing problems that may cost a homeowner more than the maintenance cost.
Bathroom maintenance checklist
Check for leaking showers and faucets. Remember, everything starts with just a “little.” That little faucet or showerhead leak can become a huge plumbing problem. Not attending to these small leaks will produce gallons of wasted water and increase the monthly utility bill.
Clean up the drains. Include the drains when checking off items on the bathroom maintenance checklist. A slow drain may result from debris build-up of hair, soap scum, and other beauty products. This drain will become slower over time if it’s not cleaned. Drains should be cleaned three or four times a year using a DIY method—baking soda and boiling water, for example—or hire a professional plumber to clear them.
Check faucet aerators. Over time, calcium will build up in the aerators connected to the faucet. This build-up can obstruct water flow and limit the water pressure, which can also cause pipes to burst in extreme cases. Removing the aerators and cleaning them should help solve the problem. Running them under water will remove any loose debris. For stubborn build-up, soak the aerator in white vinegar.
Address running toilets. If a toilet’s handle is sticking when depressed, then it would be time to have it checked and cleaned. If not fixed, the toilet will continue to run, wasting water, which translates into an increase in the monthly water bill. This repair requires little time and money.
Kitchen maintenance checklist
Check the sink. The kitchen sink is used daily and can be one of the sources of a leak. Leaks can come from faucets, strainers, garbage disposal, or any kitchen sink accessory installed. Regularly inspect the sink above and within the cabinet to ensure a problem isn’t overlooked.
Check the garbage disposal. Leaks can also be caused by damage in garbage disposals, which can go unnoticed. For this reason, homeowners should not forget to check this part of the kitchen. If maintenance is needed, refer to the manufacturer’s maintenance tips.
Sink drain cleanup. There are chemicals that homeowners can use to clear their drains, but they are hard on the plumbing and can cause damage. Instead, use regular household items such as baking soda and vinegar. Allowing baking soda and white vinegar to sit for a while, then flushed with boiling water, makes an excellent drain cleaner. They are natural ingredients that can be found in most kitchens that will not corrode the surfaces of the sink or drain.
Septic system and sewer maintenance checklist
Septic system. Homeowners should maintain this part of the home routinely. While pumping the septic system may seem insignificant, homeowners must inspect the tank to ensure the level is manageable. If the tank is overfull, handling the household’s needs will be difficult.
Sewer system. Homeowners can avoid sewer line clogs and blocks if regular inspections and maintenance are performed. If it seems that drains throughout the home are slow, it’s worth having a plumber run a camera through the system to determine the cause. It could be debris collected over time to create a clog or a tree root inclusion that requires repair to the line.
General plumbing maintenance advice
Checking the water pressure regularly can also help prevent plumbing problems. Use a pressure gauge to determine the water pressure’s strength or weakness. If the water pressure is above the recommended level, it’s best to have a plumber look at the pressure regulator, as it may have failed.
When in doubt about the plumbing system in a home, contact a reliable licensed plumber for advice and repairs.
Evenflow Home Services has earned a strong reputation for providing comprehensive residential and commercial plumbing services. Emergency services available. Call today at (210) 941-3503.
