Built for local conditions
Freezing pipes are rarely the worry here. Hard water, aging supply lines, root-prone sewer laterals and long dry seasons with heavy irrigation are. North Orange County's water is a blend of local groundwater and imported water, and its minerals end up as scale in water heaters, tankless heat exchangers, aerators, shower heads and toilet valves.
Treat this calendar as a starting point. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific water heater and fixtures.
Through the year
- January
- Test the main shutoff and curb valve. Update your shutoff map.
- February
- Clean faucet aerators and shower heads of scale.
- March
- Before irrigation season, check sprinkler valves and any backflow device for leaks.
- April
- Dye test every toilet tank for a leaking flapper.
- May
- Look under every sink with a flashlight for drips, stains and corroded angle stops.
- June
- Flush the water heater or descale the tankless unit per the manual.
- July
- Walk the yard over the sewer line; note soggy spots or unusually green strips.
- August
- Check washing machine hoses for bulges and replace old rubber hoses.
- September
- If your lateral has a history of roots, consider scheduling cleaning before the season you usually see backups.
- October
- Check water heater seismic straps, the relief valve drain and clearances around gas appliances.
- November
- Before holiday cooking, remind the household to keep grease out of the kitchen sink.
- December
- Read the meter with everything off to check for hidden leaks; review the year's water bills.
Supplies to keep on hand
- Meter key
- Plunger with a flange for toilets
- Food coloring for toilet dye tests
- White vinegar for soaking aerators
- Flashlight and towels
- Spare toilet flapper sized for your toilet
Jobs worth handing to a licensed plumber
- Anode rod check
- Requires tools and can be stubborn on older tanks.
- Gas appliance connectors
- Replacing old connectors is a plumber's job.
- Pressure regulator
- Testing and replacing it needs a gauge and shutoff.
- Sewer cleaning
- Main line work needs proper equipment.
Ask your plumber once a year
- Is my water pressure in a healthy range?
- How often should my heater be flushed with our water?
- Should anything on my shutoff map be replaced?
Common questions
Do I really need to flush my water heater?
With hard water, sediment builds up faster. Follow the manufacturer's guidance; many recommend periodic flushing.
Is a water softener necessary?
Not necessary, but some homeowners choose treatment to reduce scale. Weigh it against maintenance and ask a plumber about your system.
Can I skip months?
Yes. The calendar is a guide; the yearly meter check and shutoff test are the most important items.
General information for North Orange County, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.