Small jobs, spread out
Plumbing maintenance does not need a big weekend. Most of the tasks here take a few minutes and none require special tools. The point is to notice small changes, a stiff valve, a bit of scale, a drip at a hose, before they become a call at an inconvenient hour.
Adjust the calendar to your house. A home with a known root problem in the lateral may want more frequent drain checks, while a newer repipe may need less attention on the supply side.
Through the year
- January
- Test the main shutoff and each fixture stop; note any that stick or drip.
- February
- Clean faucet aerators and showerheads to remove hard water scale.
- March
- Check the water heater: straps tight, relief valve pipe clear, no rust or water at the base.
- April
- Run each irrigation zone and look for leaks, broken heads and soggy strips in the lawn.
- May
- Inspect washer hoses and sink supply lines for bulges, cracks or rust at the nuts.
- June
- Do a meter test with everything off to check for hidden leaks.
- July
- Check outdoor hose bibs and the pressure regulator area for weeping fittings.
- August
- Dye-test each toilet tank for a leaking flapper.
- September
- Consider flushing the water heater if the manufacturer recommends it and the plumber agrees.
- October
- Make sure the sewer cleanout is uncovered and reachable before the holidays bring guests.
- November
- Remind the household about grease, wipes and food scraps before holiday cooking.
- December
- Review the year's water bills for any unexplained increase.
Hard water habits
- Soak aerators and showerheads in vinegar when flow drops.
- Watch for white crust around valves and fittings; it can hide slow leaks.
- Ask about descaling if you have a tankless water heater.
- Note when the water heater starts popping or rumbling.
When maintenance turns into a repair
- IfA stop valve will not close or leaks after turningThenHave it replaced before you need it in an emergency.
- IfThe meter test shows a leakThenNarrow it down, then schedule leak detection.
- IfThe water heater shows rust or moisture at the baseThenHave it inspected and start planning replacement.
- IfDrains slow every few monthsThenAsk for a camera inspection of the lateral.
Common questions
Do I need yearly drain cleaning?
Not unless your line has a history of grease or root problems. A camera inspection can tell you whether regular cleaning makes sense.
How often should washer hoses be replaced?
Inspect them yearly and replace them at the first sign of wear, or as the hose manufacturer suggests.
Should I test the water heater relief valve?
Some manufacturers recommend it. On an older valve, testing can cause it to keep dripping, so ask a plumber first.
General information for La Mirada, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.