Why a calendar works
Newer plumbing does not need much, but what it needs is easy to forget. Hard water keeps building scale whether you think about it or not, valves stiffen if they never move, and pressure regulators wear quietly. Tying each check to a month means nothing goes years without a look.
Treat the schedule below as a starting point. Your tankless heater, softener or fixtures may come with their own maintenance intervals; those take priority.
Month by month
- January
- Test the main shutoff and two or three fixture stops. Update the shutoff map.
- February
- Run the toilet dye test on every toilet.
- March
- Clean aerators and shower heads. Note how much scale you find.
- April
- Check irrigation for leaks and broken heads before watering season.
- May
- Read house pressure with a gauge; check overnight for climbing.
- June
- Look under every sink and behind the washer and fridge for drips.
- July
- Tankless: flush or schedule a flush if due. Tank: check the drain pan and relief line.
- August
- Check exposed PEX and copper in the garage and at the manifold for crust or stains.
- September
- Clear the kitchen trap and run cold water with the disposal.
- October
- Inspect the water heater strapping, vent and gas connection visually.
- November
- Test the meter for hidden leaks with everything off.
- December
- Review the symptom log and book any repairs you have been putting off.
Supplies to keep on hand
Owner task or plumber task
| Task | Usually owner | Usually plumber |
|---|---|---|
| Aerator and shower head cleaning | Yes | No |
| Dye test and flapper replacement | Yes | If the stop is stuck |
| Pressure gauge reading | Yes | Adjusting or replacing the regulator |
| Tankless flush | If the manual allows | Most often |
| Gas, venting and relief valve work | No | Yes |
Questions to add to your next plumbing visit
- Based on what you see, should my tankless flush interval be shorter?
- Is my pressure regulator within its normal range?
- Are any of my fixture stops worth replacing now?
- Is there anything in my system you would check every year?
Common questions
Is this calendar too much for a new house?
Each task is short. Skip what does not apply, but keep the shutoff, pressure and heater items.
What if I find scale every time I clean aerators?
That is normal in hard water. Use it as a reminder to keep up with water heater flushing.
Should I hire someone for an annual check?
Some homeowners do. Bring this calendar and your log so the visit focuses on what matters.
General information for Amerige Heights, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.