Garden Grove's hard water, a blend of local groundwater and imported water, leaves minerals in water heaters, valves, aerators and tankless heat exchangers. Many homes also have decades-old supply pipe and sewer laterals that roots can reach. Regular small checks catch the slow problems before they become 2 a.m. calls.
Adjust the timing to your home, and follow your appliance manufacturers' instructions where they differ from this general schedule.
Through the year
- January
- Test the main shutoff and meter valve. Update your shutoff map.
- February
- Check under every sink for drips, stains and soft cabinet floors.
- March
- Flush or have the water heater flushed; descale a tankless unit per the manual.
- April
- Inspect irrigation for leaks and broken heads before summer watering.
- May
- Clean faucet aerators and showerheads of mineral buildup.
- June
- Run a water meter leak test with everything off.
- July
- Check washer hoses for bulges or cracks; replace old rubber hoses.
- August
- Look at toilet supply lines and angle stops; do a toilet dye test.
- September
- Inspect water heater straps, venting and the relief valve discharge line.
- October
- Find and uncover the sewer cleanout before the holiday season.
- November
- Remind the household: no grease, wipes or food scraps down drains.
- December
- Review the year's symptom log; schedule any repairs you put off.
Every visit to the garage or laundry
- Glance at the base of the water heater for water or rust
- Look behind the washer for drips
- Listen for rumbling from the heater
- Check that nothing is stored against the heater or its vent
When a check turns up a problem
- IfA valve will not turn or leaks when movedThenSchedule a replacement during regular hours.
- IfThe meter moves with everything offThenArrange leak detection soon.
- IfWater or rust at the heater baseThenSee the water heater leaking guide.
- IfDrains gurgle throughout the houseThenAsk about a camera inspection of the sewer lateral.
Habits that prevent emergencies
- Kitchen
- Grease to the trash, scraps to the bin
- Bathrooms
- Only toilet paper down the toilet
- Laundry
- Braided hoses, inspected yearly
- Yard
- Know where the sewer line runs before planting trees
Common questions
Do I need to flush the water heater?
In hard water areas, sediment builds faster. Follow the manufacturer's guidance and ask a plumber if you are unsure how.
Should I get a regular sewer camera inspection?
If your home has had root backups before, periodic inspection can help you plan instead of reacting.
Is a water softener worth it?
It depends on your goals and household. Ask a licensed plumber to explain trade-offs and any local requirements.
General information for Garden Grove, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.