Most plumbing failures give some warning: a stiff valve, a slow drain, a damp cabinet. A light routine spread over the year means you notice those signs while they are still small repairs.
Southern California's mild climate means freezing pipes are rarely the concern they are elsewhere. Here the bigger long-term factors are hard water, aging pipe in mid-century homes, and tree roots in sewer laterals.
A sample year
- January
- Run the water meter leak test and test the main shutoff valve.
- February
- Clean faucet aerators and showerheads to remove hard-water scale.
- March
- Check under every sink for damp spots, drips and soft cabinet floors.
- April
- Inspect irrigation for leaks and broken heads as watering increases.
- May
- Look over the water heater: two seismic straps, relief valve pipe, signs of rust or water.
- June
- Check washing machine hoses for bulges or cracks.
- July
- Dye-test each toilet tank for silent leaks.
- August
- Notice drain speed throughout the house; note any slow fixtures.
- September
- Flush the tank water heater, or have it done, if your plumber recommends it.
- October
- Exercise fixture stop valves gently and note any that are stiff.
- November
- Before holiday guests, check that toilets and the main drain are flowing well.
- December
- Review the year's notes and schedule any repairs that came up.
Habits that help all year
- Keep grease out of the kitchen drain.
- Flush only toilet paper and waste.
- Use strainers in tubs and showers.
- Know where the main shutoff is.
- Watch the water bill for unexplained jumps.
Track it
| Task | Date done | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Meter leak test | ||
| Main valve tested | ||
| Aerators cleaned | ||
| Water heater checked | ||
| Toilets dye-tested | ||
| Washer hoses checked |
Ask your plumber at the next visit
- How often should my water heater be flushed?
- Are any of my stop valves worth replacing now?
- Would a camera check of the sewer line be useful?
- Is my pressure regulator working properly?
Common questions
Do I have to follow this exact schedule?
No. It is a sample. What matters is doing each check now and then and writing down what you find.
Can I flush the water heater myself?
Many homeowners do, but older tanks can have a stuck or clogged drain valve. Follow the manufacturer's instructions or ask a plumber.
What is the single most useful habit?
Knowing where the main shutoff is and confirming that it works.
General information for Sunny Hills, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.