Routine plumbing maintenance is essential for maintaining the integrity and functionality of your home’s plumbing system. Being proactive can save you money and prevent severe plumbing problems such as burst pipes or severe flooding. This guide will help you understand the ideal frequency for plumbing maintenance and why it’s crucial.
How Often Should You Schedule Plumbing Maintenance?
The ideal frequency for plumbing maintenance is once per year. Annual maintenance is especially recommended if you live in an older home or have experienced frequent plumbing issues. However, if your home has a newer plumbing system, you might extend this timeline slightly, but it is generally advised not to go beyond two years without a thorough inspection.
Homes surrounded by many mature trees should consider more frequent maintenance, perhaps twice a year. Tree roots are a significant cause of damaged sewer lines and main water lines, so frequent checks can help prevent costly repairs.
Why Regular Plumbing Maintenance Is Important
Regular plumbing maintenance ensures the longevity and efficiency of your plumbing system. Over time, pipes, sinks, toilets, water heaters, and other plumbing fixtures suffer from wear and tear. Annual inspections by a professional can help identify and fix minor issues before they become major problems.
Regular maintenance can prevent significant problems in your water line or main sewer line. For instance, repairing a damaged main sewer line can cost up to $6,300, not including additional costs for landscaping or driveway repairs. In contrast, regular cleaning or descaling of the main sewer line costs between $175 and $475.
Signs You Need Plumbing Maintenance
If you haven’t scheduled regular plumbing maintenance, here are some signs that it’s time to call a professional:
Signs You Need Routine Plumbing Work
- Clogged Drains: Slow or completely blocked drains indicate a need for maintenance.
- Gurgling Sounds: Strange noises from your drains can signal underlying issues.
- Inconsistent Water Pressure: Both high and low water pressure can indicate problems in your plumbing system.
- Water Heating Issues: If water takes a long time to heat or doesn’t heat at all, your water heater may need attention.
- Appliance Performance: If your dishwasher, washing machine, or other appliances are operating slower than usual, there might be a plumbing issue.
Signs You Need Emergency Plumbing Work
- No Water Flow: If water isn’t coming out of your sinks, it’s time for immediate action.
- Burst or Leaking Pipe: Visible water damage or leaks require urgent repairs.
- Sagging Ceiling: This can be a sign of a severe leak and potential water damage.
- Unpleasant Odors: Foul smells from your garbage disposal or drains can indicate a problem.
If you’re adding new appliances such as dishwashers or sinks, seeking a plumber’s assistance is also advisable. Many plumbers offer service contracts that cover regular maintenance and emergency repairs, so review your contract to see what is included.
What Does a Routine Plumbing Maintenance Check Include?
Here’s what you can expect during a routine plumbing maintenance check by a professional:
Check Water Pressure
Water pressure is crucial for the health of your plumbing system. Ideal water pressure for most homes is between 45 and 65 PSI. High water pressure can result from thermal expansion, causing stress on your pipes, leading to leaks, corrosion, or damage. Low water pressure might be due to pinhole leaks, tree roots blocking the main water line, clogged pipes, calcium buildup from hard water, or issues with your water supplier.
Kitchen
A thorough check of your kitchen plumbing should include:
- Water Shutoff Valves: Ensuring they are working correctly.
- Water Supply Lines: Checking for leaks or moisture buildup.
- Faucets: Ensuring they operate smoothly without leaks.
Bathroom
Bathroom plumbing maintenance involves:
- Toilets: Checking for running water or minor leaks that waste water.
- Sinks and Showers: Ensuring all plumbing fixtures are in good working condition.
- Shower Heads: Inspecting for proper flow and checking for any mineral buildup.
Water Heater
Annual maintenance for water heaters includes:
- Flushing and Draining: Removing sediment buildup to prevent corrosion and ensure even heating.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring the water heater complies with current city or town plumbing codes.
Addressing Low Water Pressure and High Water Pressure
Both low water pressure and high water pressure can indicate issues within your plumbing system.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can result from several factors:
- Pinhole Leaks: Small leaks that reduce overall water pressure.
- Clogged Pipes: Mineral buildup from hard water can clog pipes.
- Main Water Line Issues: Tree roots or other obstructions blocking the main water line.
High Water Pressure
High water pressure can cause:
- Pipe Damage: Excess pressure can cause pipes to burst or leak.
- Appliance Damage: High pressure can damage washing machines, dishwashers, and other appliances.
A professional plumber can use water pressure gauges to measure your home’s water pressure and install a water pressure regulator if necessary to maintain ideal levels.
Plumbing Maintenance Tips
Here are some tips to help maintain your plumbing system between professional inspections:
- Regularly Check for Leaks: Inspect faucets, shower heads, and exposed pipes for leaks.
- Clear Clogged Drains: Use natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar to clear minor clogs.
- Monitor Water Usage: Be mindful of your water usage to detect any unusual increases that could indicate a leak.
- Inspect Water Shutoff Valves: Ensure you know how to shut off the water in case of an emergency.
- Check Appliances: Regularly check washing machines, dishwashers, and other water-using appliances for signs of wear or leaks.
Protecting Your Plumbing During Winter
Winter can be particularly harsh on your plumbing system, especially if you experience freezing temperatures. Here are some tips to protect your water pipes during the colder months:
- Insulate Pipes: Use pipe insulation to protect exposed pipes from freezing.
- Keep a Steady Drip: Letting faucets drip can prevent water from freezing in the pipes.
- Seal Gaps: Ensure there are no gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior where cold air can enter and freeze your pipes.
- Disconnect Hoses: Remove and store garden hoses, and shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets.
Dealing with Frozen Pipes
If you suspect a frozen pipe, take immediate action to prevent it from bursting:
- Shut Off the Water: Turn off the water supply to prevent further damage.
- Thaw the Pipe: Use a hairdryer or a portable heater to gently thaw the frozen section. Never use an open flame.
- Check for Leaks: Once the pipe is thawed, check for any leaks or cracks that may need repair.
Conclusion
Routine plumbing maintenance is essential for preventing major plumbing problems and ensuring your system operates efficiently. Regular inspections can identify and repair issues such as low water pressure, high water pressure, and blocked drains. You can address these problems before they cause significant damage in your home.
For reliable plumbing maintenance and repairs, contact Llona Plumbing. Our skilled professionals can inspect, maintain, and handle emergency plumbing work to keep your plumbing system in good shape. Regular maintenance and prevention are crucial to avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your home’s plumbing system.
