The Plumbing Checklist Every Lexington Homeowner Should Know
The plumbing system is one of the most crucial elements of a home. It helps provide drinking water, wash clothes and dishes, clean bathrooms, and maintain proper temperature control throughout the house. However, it can also cause problems like leaks, clogs, and other issues. That’s why it’s important to take care of it regularly. Here are some tips that will help you do just that.
Buying a new house is an exciting time, but it can be easy to overlook certain issues in the plumbing system that could cost you a fortune in repairs and replacement costs down the road. Luckily, there are ways to prevent these problems from happening. These include doing a home inspection before making the purchase. A home inspection isn’t as comprehensive as a professional plumbing assessment, but it can give you an idea of the state of the current plumbing system and the potential future ones.
Checking for plumbing problems on a regular basis will help prevent them from turning into major disasters. This checklist covers all the essentials for a thorough inspection of your home’s plumbing.
Leaks, even the small ones, can cause costly damage if left unattended for too long. This is why assessing for leaks should be a top priority on any home plumbing inspection checklist.
1. Check the Water Pressure
The water pressure that comes into your home is important for things like showering, washing clothes, and even running the dishwasher. If you have low water pressure in your house, it can make these tasks difficult and frustrating. Low water pressure can also indicate that there is a problem with the pipes or the water service provider.
Plumbers in Lexington will be able to help you determine what is causing your low water pressure. If the issue is with the water supply, the solution may be as simple as a valve being turned on or off. If the problem is more specific to your home or plumbing system, it may be more involved and require plumbing repairs.
High water pressure can be just as problematic as low water pressure. In fact, it can cause serious damage to your house and your pipes if it is not addressed quickly. Some signs that your water pressure is too high include banging pipes and leaky faucets. If your toilets run when they are not used, this is another indication of high water pressure.
If you have a leak in your pipes, it can be very tricky to find the source of the leak. However, if you use the right technology and equipment, Lexington Plumbing can accurately locate your leak without damaging your property. They can use multiple pieces of state-of-the-art equipment that can track your pipe and detect any obstructions, breaks, or leaks.
Before you turn on the water for the first time in a new house, be sure to check the pressure of the water coming into your home. This can be done by running all the faucets in your house to make sure that they are working properly and that there is sufficient water pressure. In addition, you should also test your toilets and showers to make sure that they are flushing correctly and have good water flow. You should also look for dampness or discoloration on the walls near where your pipes enter your house to be sure that they are not leaking.
2. Check the Drains
New homeowners may think they have checked all the plumbing in their new home, but there are a lot of things that can be overlooked. One of the most important is the drain lines in the house, especially those going to the garbage disposal and sewer. It’s vital to check them regularly for any signs of past damage and problems.
If the homeowner finds signs of a drain line problem, like slow draining or backups in the house or in the yard, it’s time to call a plumber. This is a job best left to professionals because it can involve digging in the yard or in the sewer and can be extremely messy.
Often, it is impossible to know exactly what is causing a drainage issue without removing the piping from its spot in the wall. This is a job that should be left to professionals who have the tools and equipment to do it quickly and efficiently.
The other thing that can be easily overlooked is checking the sanitary and storm sewer lines for proper connections. It only takes one improper rainwater connection to overload the sanitary sewer system. This can cause raw sewage to overflow into yards and streets. This is why the city requires all storm and sanitary sewers to be inspected and cleaned on a regular basis.
Many times, leaks or breaks in the sanitary and storm sewer pipes can go unnoticed for a long time. This can lead to expensive repairs and/or clean-up. It’s important to have these inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
Leak detection for the sanitary and storm sewer lines is typically done with a camera inspection. This helps to limit the amount of digging required, minimizes damage to landscaping and driveways, and provides an accurate diagnosis of the issue. HUBBARD MECHANICAL – LEXINGTON has multiple pieces of state-of-the-art leak detection equipment and experienced technicians that understand piping systems. They can get to the root of the problem fast and save you money in the long run. They also manage the entire process from leak detection, excavation, and repair.
3. Check Your Water Heater
If your home has a water heater, it’s important to inspect it on a regular basis. Look for leaks or rust, signs of overheating, and water stains on the floor or surrounding area. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call a plumber for service.
The water supply pipes and sewer vents in your home should also be inspected regularly. If there are issues with these, it can cause a number of problems, including toxic sewage backup in your toilets and sink drains. In addition, a broken or missing sewer vent can lead to odors and low water pressure in your home.
It is a good idea to run a hot water circulation system at least once a month to keep the lines clear and avoid mineral deposits. You should also check that your main shut-off valve works by closing and opening it. This is a simple task that could save you a lot of money in the long run.
You should also check the temperature of your hot water to ensure it is set at the right level. This helps prevent your water from scalding and can help your family stay healthy. It’s also a good idea to check all the fixtures, pipes, and supply lines in your bathroom. This includes the faucets, showerheads, toilets, and any other fixtures in your bathroom. You should also check the hose spigots outside and the gutter for any clogs.
A water heater can last up to 10-15 years before it needs to be replaced. If your water heater is leaking, it is likely that the tank or lining has been damaged by corrosion or rust. If you notice that your water heater is leaking, you should turn off the water supply and then the power to the unit.
4. Check Your Pipes
When it comes to your plumbing pipes, you need to be able to recognize problems quickly so that they don’t cause serious damage. One way to do this is by regularly inspecting the area for clogs, leaks, and signs of corrosion. You should also be aware of where the individual water shut-off valves are located and how to turn them off. Also, be aware of how to clean mineral stains from faucets and showerheads.
Lastly, it’s essential that you check your outdoor house spigots for cracking or leaks so that you can easily shut off the water to those areas if necessary. Keeping an eye out for any issues can help you save time and money by avoiding costly repairs down the road.
Another important thing to look out for when it comes to your plumbing pipes is any signs of rust or corrosion. If you have older galvanized pipes, it’s a good idea to consider replacing them, as they will likely be more susceptible to rusting and corrosion than newer, PVC piping. Additionally, if you have copper pipes, it’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of copper fatigue which can lead to a pipe leak or break.
The best way to avoid these potential problems is to conduct regular plumbing inspections and ensure that you have the proper tools to handle any issues. A plumber who is experienced in residential plumbing can also help you with any questions or concerns that may arise.
Check for corrosive metal like rust on water pipes or limescale around shower heads. This can be a sign of a larger problem that needs to be addressed quickly before it becomes worse. Look for signs of plumbing leaks such as water spots, puddles, and mildew. Leaks can cause costly damage if left unchecked, so they should be a priority on your checklist.
You should also check for backflow preventers. These are devices that keep water from flowing in the wrong direction, so they’re vital for protecting your property. Make sure that you’re testing these devices during your routine maintenance visits so you don’t end up with expensive repairs later on.
If you’re looking for a plumber in Lexington, there are many options to choose from. Some are local and offer emergency services, while others have years of experience in the field. You should always choose a licensed plumber, especially for any major work, to ensure that you’re getting the best service possible.
Another thing to consider is whether your plumber has the right equipment. For example, if you have a clog in your bathroom or kitchen sink, a professional can use special tools to break up the blockage without damaging your pipes. They can even install a new faucet for you.
If you’re looking for plumbers Lexington to repair your plumbing, be sure to check the company’s website and customer reviews. This will help you find the right person for the job and avoid a costly mistake down the line. Also, a licensed plumber will be familiar with local regulations and codes. This way, you can rest assured that the job will be done correctly and safely. It’s worth the investment to ensure the safety of your family and home.
The plumbing system is one of the most crucial elements of a home. It helps provide drinking water, wash clothes and dishes, clean bathrooms, and maintain proper temperature control throughout the house. However, it can also cause problems like leaks, clogs, and other issues. That’s why it’s important to take care of it regularly. Here…