A Helpful Plumbing Checklist for Home Owners

It is important to check your plumbing to determine the problems that need to be fixed immediately. When plumbing problems are left ignored, leaks and obstructions in water flow can contribute to major problems and might lead to costly breakdowns.

A plumbing check involves checking the areas where water runs through your house, which include pipes, sinks, toilets, lines, and tubs.

• Water taps and pipes for leaks
• Filler mechanisms, water levels, and flappers in toilets
• Water temperature in heaters
• Pressure relief valves and pipes before being flushed

Home Plumbing Checklist

Here is a checklist that explains the areas that need to be checked during your home plumbing inspection.

Things to Check Every Week

• House Taps - Check the house taps as well as all bathtub and sink drains for any warning signs such as foul odor and slow drainage. These signs could indicate a clog in the drain pipe.
• Check for Odd Noises - Check every faucet, water-dispensing fixture, and showerhead for odd noises or discoloration. This could indicate leaks.

Also Read: Attic Inspection: What You Need to Know

Things to Check On a Seasonal or Monthly Basis

• Water Heater - Check your water heater’s pipes and connections for signs of leaks or corrosion.
• Exposed Pipes - Check the exposed pipes and their joints for signs of damage, corrosion, weak seals or leaks. If your pipes are insulated, make sure the insulation is intact and dry.
• Water Meter - Turn off all the faucets and the main shutoff valve in your house and check whether your water meter is still running. If your water meter runs, you may have a major leak or faulty meter.
• Emergency Shutoff Valves - Turn off all your emergency shutoff valves and check whether your faucets still dispense water. If those dispense water, the leak may be a problem, so check the service line of your shutoff valves.

Checking these areas at recommended intervals will help you detect common plumbing problems. If you see any leaks, call a professional plumbing expert to fix the problems.

Also Read: Home Inspection Checklist for Buying a Used Manufactured Home

Why Checking Your Plumbing Is Important

Plumbing inspections ensure things are functioning properly and also help you in identifying any potential problems.