Preventive maintenance of plumbing fixtures at home is typically an under-valued activity. Homeowners often disregard preventive maintenance until they experience a plumbing failure. However, do you know that the plumbing system in your home makes up for 15% of your total home value?
Now that is quite an investment and to get a better value of your property, you need to make sure that the plumbing system in your home runs efficiently and smoothly. But you can’t ensure this unless you schedule regular plumbing maintenance by a professional plumber.
So, here we have a plumbing checklist for you that you can use when you call in a professional plumber for preventive maintenance at your home.
Inspect for Leakages
An efficient plumbing system cannot function without pipes and leakages in your pipes can have a detrimental effect not just on the plumbing system of your house but also on the structural foundation. Therefore, it is extremely important to inspect all the pipes in the house. For pipes which are not concealed behind the walls or under the ground, it is easier to inspect and find out leaks.
However, in case of pipes that you cannot see, you can still inspect them for leakages. When a professional plumber comes in for an inspection, they will shut off the main water supply. And in case your water meter reading continues, this is an indication of a leakage in your pipes. Other, more obvious signs of leakages include wet spots on the wall or moisture on the floor, and mold growth as mold fosters in a moist environment.
Make sure you check all your plumbing fixtures for leakages including your faucets, washing machine hose, kitchen sink, garbage disposal and all other appliances that are connected with water. Inspect for leakages in the toilet and bath tub. Make sure you keep a check on the sprinkler in your garden or the water hose you use for watering your plants. Also, inspect the faucets and appliances that you rarely use. It is possible that the plumbing fixtures installed in your basement may not be regularly used and can be a potential source of leakage.
Check for Water Pressure
Another important plumbing concern is lower water pressure. If you are experiencing lower water pressure in your faucets and shower, it is possible that there might be debris buildup in the pipes. Also, it might be an indication of a possible leakage.
So whenever you schedule a preventive maintenance from a professional plumber, make sure they check for the water pressure in your home. In a residential facility, the normal water pressure ranges between 40 and 60 PSI. In case, water pressure in your home is lower or higher, only a professional will help you identify and resolve the problem.
Take a Look at the Water Heater
Water heaters are the most unappreciated appliance in the home. Most homeowners only think about them when they don’t get hot water in the shower. However, like all other plumbing fixtures, your water heater also needs maintenance. So every time you schedule preventive maintenance at home, don’t forget your water heater. Check for all the valves that transport water. You should be able to open and shut these valves easily. In case, they are stuck, a plumber can always add some lubrication and bring your valves back in running condition.
Also, make sure the inside of your water heater is in the right condition. In case of rust or corrosion of the outer body, you might need to replace your water heater. A professional plumber for preventive maintenance will also check for the heating element. In case your heating element is not functioning, they will recommend you to replace the heating element only instead of the entire water heater.
Check for Toilets and Drains
Clogged toilets and drains are often a plumbing nightmare and there is no better opportunity to get your toilets and drains inspected than during a plumbing inspection. Professional plumbers have specialized equipment that allow them to take a look inside your drains and toilets. In case of a clog building up in your pipes, preventive maintenance can help you get rid of them well in time conveniently.
And as the plumber inspects the toilets, make sure they take a look at the toilet tank as well. A detailed examination of the toilet tank can help identify any possible leaks. It also gives an opportunity to look for any signs of wear and tear.
Clean Garbage Disposal
Your garbage disposal, often known as the power workhorse of the kitchen, may be a powerful appliance. But it needs some thorough cleaning. While it is recommended to run cold water through your garbage disposal every time you use it, a professional plumber knows the right trick to thoroughly clean your garbage disposal. Make sure you don’t forget about it so you can continue to use it in the long run.
Other plumbing fixtures such as sewer line and septic system also need preventive maintenance. So whenever you call in a professional plumber, make sure they take a look at all these important plumbing fixtures in your home.
Schedule Preventive Maintenance Today!
Prevention is the best cure and it holds true for everything including preventive plumbing. If you are looking for preventive maintenance at home, call professional plumbers at Mesa Plumbing Company. We offer maintenance services that allow you to identify plumbing problems early when it is easy and inexpensive to solve them. From inspection to testing and adjustment, we offer a variety of preventive services. To know more about our expertise or to schedule an appointment, call now at 480-832-1660 or visit our website.