Staying on top of your plumbing maintenance is one of the easiest ways to save money as a homeowner. Just a few minutes of checking things out each month can stop a tiny drip from becoming a flooded kitchen. Use our handy checklist to keep your home’s plumbing in top shape year-round!
Monthly: Quick Visual Inspections
Take five minutes every month to look under your sinks and around your toilets for any signs of moisture, drips, or rust. Check your washing machine hoses for cracks or swelling. Catching a small drip early can save you thousands of dollars in water damage repairs.
Every 3 Months: Test Your Shutoff Valves
You don't want to wait for an emergency to find out your shutoff valves are stuck! Every few months, gently turn the valves under your sinks and behind your toilets off and back on to keep them loose. Do the same for your home's main water shutoff.
Every 6 Months: Check Water Heater Operation
Carefully test your water heater's pressure relief valve by lifting the lever—it should let out a little water and then seal shut. Check the base of the tank for any leaks or rust. Make sure your temperature is set to a safe and efficient 120°F.
Annually: Flush the Water Heater Tank
Over time, hard water minerals settle at the bottom of your water heater, forcing it to work harder and drastically shortening its life. Flushing the tank once a year removes this heavy sediment. We highly recommend this for Escondido homes! We can handle this for you during a routine tune-up.
Annually: Professional Drain Cleaning
Soap, grease, and hair build up in your drains over time, no matter how careful you are. An annual professional drain cleaning keeps your pipes wide open and prevents surprise backups. It's also a great chance for us to spot any early warning signs of bigger pipe issues.
Every Few Years: Plumbing System Inspection
Especially if you live in an older home, having a pro inspect your plumbing every few years gives you total peace of mind. We'll check your pipes, valves, heater, and sewer line so you know exactly what condition everything is in. Reach out to our local plumbing team to get scheduled!