Check your Plumbing Regularly

Checking your plumbing regularly is essential for maintaining a healthy, safe, and efficient home. Ideally, a thorough inspection of your plumbing system should be done at least once a year. This allows homeowners or professionals to catch small issues before they become major problems. Seasonal changes—especially the transition from summer to winter—can be hard on pipes, so scheduling an inspection before winter is a good preventive measure. In addition to annual inspections, stay alert for signs like water stains, slow drains, or unusual noises, which may indicate immediate problems that need attention.

Routine checks should include all visible pipes, under sinks, and around appliances such as water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers. Look for any signs of corrosion, drips, or mineral build-up, and make sure connections are tight. If you live in an older home or one with hard water, you might want to inspect your plumbing more often, perhaps every six months. Older pipes are more prone to wear and damage, while hard water can speed up mineral deposits that clog pipes and damage fixtures.

In addition to visual inspections, monitoring your water pressure and water bills can offer clues about hidden leaks or plumbing issues. A sudden increase in your water bill without any change in usage is a red flag. Low water pressure may suggest a blockage or leak somewhere in the system. These are subtle signs that regular visual checks may miss, which is why it's important to be attentive to performance as well as appearance.

If you're not comfortable doing these inspections yourself, hiring a licensed plumber annually is a smart investment. A professional can perform detailed assessments including camera inspections of sewer lines, pressure tests, and water heater maintenance. They may also spot early signs of issues like pipe corrosion or faulty valves that a homeowner might overlook. Having a plumber on a routine schedule also builds a relationship for quicker service during emergencies.

In conclusion, checking your plumbing at least once a year—and more often if you live in an older home or notice warning signs—can prevent costly repairs, water damage, and inconvenience. Combine annual professional inspections with regular at-home checks to stay on top of your plumbing system. Prevention is always less expensive and less stressful than emergency repairs. Keeping a proactive maintenance schedule will extend the life of your plumbing and protect your home’s value and safety.