Regular plumbing maintenance plays a vital role in preserving your system, just like any other component in your home. Over time, pipes, sinks, toilets, water heaters, and other equipment experience wear and tear. Getting your plumbing inspected annually or having a local plumbing repair professional perform maintenance helps ensure its longevity.

To save money and maintain the longevity of your systems, being proactive is crucial when it comes to home maintenance projects. Neglecting your pipes and plumbing appliances can lead to corrosion and damage over time, resulting in costly repairs and nightmarish scenarios like burst pipes or flooding.

How Frequently Should I Schedule Plumbing Maintenance?

While the ideal frequency for plumbing maintenance is once a year, it can vary based on factors such as the age of your system, the type of pipes used, or the presence of trees around your home. 

For older homes or if you've had frequent tune-ups or fixes throughout the year, once a year plumbing maintenance is recommended. However, if you have a newer plumbing system or you've recently had extensive repairs or upgrades, you can extend the timeline a bit. Still, most licensed plumbers recommend not exceeding two years without a thorough checkup of your home's plumbing.

If your home is surrounded by numerous mature trees, more frequent plumbing maintenance is advisable. Tree roots are a major cause of cracked or damaged sewer lines and water mains. If this applies to your situation, it's recommended to consider maintenance at least twice a year to prevent potential issues before they escalate.

How Will I Know that I Need to Schedule Plumbing Maintenance?

Here are some signs that indicate it's time to seek plumbing maintenance if you haven't had a regular inspection:

• Clogged drains that persist despite attempts to clear them
• Gurgling sounds in your drain, indicating air pockets or potential blockages
• Water pressure that's too high or too low, affecting the efficiency of your faucets and appliances
• Water taking a long time to heat up or not heating up at all, indicating potential issues with your water heater
• Appliances not functioning properly or moving slowly (e.g., dishwasher taking significantly longer than usual), which may indicate underlying plumbing problems

Additionally, in case of emergency plumbing needs, pay attention if you experience:

• No water coming out of sinks or faucets, indicating a possible water supply issue
• Bursting or leaking pipes, requiring immediate attention to prevent further damage
• A sagging ceiling, which could indicate a hidden plumbing leak
• Unpleasant odors coming from the garbage disposal, potentially signaling a clog or other issues

If you're adding new appliances like a dishwasher or sink, it's wise to consult a plumber. Many plumbers now offer service contracts, so reviewing the terms can help ensure that the signs you've noticed are covered.

What Does a Plumber Do During a Maintenance Check?

During your annual maintenance check, a plumbing professional will typically:

• Assess water pressure to ensure it falls within the ideal range of 45-65 PSI, as both low and high pressure can cause problems
• Inspect the water shutoff valves and supply lines under your kitchen sink, checking for proper functionality and any signs of moisture buildup that may indicate leaks
• Evaluate the plumbing system in your bathroom(s), including toilets, sinks, and showers, while also identifying any water wastage issues or leaks that could lead to higher utility bills
• Flush and drain your water heater to remove sediment buildup that can cause corrosion and uneven heating, staying up to date with any changes in regulations that could affect your water heater's efficiency and safety

In conclusion, maintaining your home's plumbing system is crucial for its longevity and to prevent costly repairs in the future. With regular plumbing maintenance, you can avoid issues like burst pipes or flooding, saving you both money and stress. Don't wait for problems to arise – let Gieser Plumbing help you proactively maintain your home's plumbing and enjoy a worry-free living environment.