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Keeping your plumbing system in good shape isn’t just about convenience—it’s about protecting your home, saving money, and preventing costly repairs. With regular plumbing maintenance, BC homeowners can keep their home’s plumbing system running smoothly, maintain steady water pressure, and avoid unexpected plumbing emergencies.
This guide provides top plumbing maintenance tips, a practical checklist, and key considerations to ensure your home remains comfortable year-round.
Why Regular Plumbing Maintenance Matters
Ignoring small plumbing issues often leads to expensive repairs down the line. A dripping faucet may not seem like much, but over time, it wastes thousands of gallons of cold water and raises your bills. A neglected water heater can accumulate sediment, reducing its efficiency and shortening its lifespan.
Preventive plumbing maintenance offers key benefits:
- Prevent costly repairs by detecting leaks and corroded pipes promptly.
- Maintain proper water flow and healthy water pressure.
- Conserve hot water and enhance the efficiency of your heating system.
- Extend the lifespan of fixtures, appliances, and water pipes.
- Protect your home from burst pipes, frozen pipes, and water damage.
Plumbing Maintenance Checklist
Plumbing Maintenance Checklist
Use this checklist to keep your home’s plumbing system running smoothly, avoid costly repairs, and maintain proper water flow and water pressure.
| Frequency | Task | Why It Matters | Tools / Notes | Done |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daily | ||||
| Daily | ToiletsUse only toilet paper; no wipes or hygiene products. | Prevents clogged drains and protects pipes. | Waste bin nearby discourages improper flushing. | |
| Daily | KitchenAvoid pouring grease and coffee grounds into the kitchen sink. | Prevents buildup leading to slow drainage and blockages. | Collect grease; compost grounds. | |
| Daily | ShowersUse strainers to catch hair at shower drains. | Helps prevent clogs before they start. | Pop-in mesh strainer. | |
| Weekly | ||||
| Weekly | Leak ScanCheck under sinks for visible leaks and moisture on visible pipes. | Catches plumbing leaks early to avoid costly repairs. | Paper towel swipe test. | |
| Weekly | Toilet TestAdd a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank; look for color in the bowl. | Detects silent leaks that waste water and reduce pressure. | Replace flapper if color appears. | |
| Weekly | Flow CheckNote any slow drains or slow drainage trends. | Early sign of clogging in the plumbing system. | Plan a drain snake if repeats. | |
| Weekly | AeratorsClean faucet aerators to maintain proper water flow. | Mineral buildup reduces water pressure and efficiency. | Soak in vinegar; brush gently. | |
| Monthly | ||||
| Monthly | Exposed PipesInspect and insulate exposed pipes in cool areas. | Protects pipes from temperature swings and frozen pipes. | Foam sleeves; tape seams. | |
| Monthly | Water PressureMonitor water pressure; adjust pressure regulator if high. | Prevents stress on fixtures and burst pipes. | Gauge target ~40–60 PSI. | |
| Monthly | Disposal CareDeodorize garbage disposal with baking soda and vinegar. | Keeps unit fresh without chemical drain cleaners. | Avoid chemical drain cleaners; ice cubes for light scouring. | |
| Monthly | P-TrapsClear P-traps under sinks to prevent odors and clogs. | Removes debris that leads to clogged drains. | Bucket; channel locks; new washers if needed. | |
| Seasonal | ||||
| Seasonal | Water HeaterFlush your water heater; test the pressure relief valve. | Improves hot water capacity and efficiency; safety check. | Hose; follow manufacturer steps. | |
| Seasonal | Sump PumpTest sump pump by filling the sump pit with water. | Confirms operation before heavy rain; prevents flooding. | Clean pit; verify discharge is clear. | |
| Seasonal | Septic / SewerInspect septic system or sewer line. | Prevents backups and expensive repairs. | Pump septic tanks per schedule; scope if recurring issues. | |
| Seasonal | Winterize OutdoorsDrain outdoor spigots, add covers, protect pipes in unheated areas. | Reduces risk of frozen pipes and burst lines. | Hose bib covers; shut interior valves and bleed lines. | |
| Seasonal | Wet AreasInspect caulking around showers, tubs, and sinks. | Prevents hidden leaks and mold behind finishes. | Use mildew-resistant sealant. | |
| Seasonal | Shut-off ValvesExercise main and fixture shut-off valves. | Ensures they work during a plumbing emergency. | Replace stuck or leaking valves. | |
| Annual | ||||
| Annual | Pro InspectionSchedule a professional plumber for a whole-home inspection. | Finds hidden issues; plans necessary repairs before they escalate. | Ask for pressure, heater, and sewer/septic checks. | |
| Annual | Water Bill ReviewCompare monthly usage year-over-year to spot anomalies. | Spikes can signal leaks you can’t see. | Keep a simple maintenance log. | |
Tip: Avoid chemical drain cleaners; use a drain snake or baking soda + vinegar to protect pipes.
Key Areas to Maintain
1. Water Heater
Your water heater works year-round to provide hot water. Without regular maintenance, sediment buildup reduces efficiency and increases utility costs. Be sure to:
- Drain and flush your water heater at least once a year.
- Test the pressure relief valve for safety.
- Schedule necessary repairs promptly.
2. Toilet Care
- Use only toilet paper. Other products cause clogged drains.
- Inspect the toilet tank regularly for leaks.
- If you notice water movement after a flush, replace the worn flapper.
📖 Read More: Flushable wipes causing problems for homeowners and wastewater management systems – CTV News
3. Drains and Garbage Disposal
- Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage pipes. Instead, use a drain snake or a mix of baking soda and vinegar.
- Always avoid pouring grease or oils into drains.
- Keep shower drains and the kitchen sink clear to prevent clogged drains.
4. Sewer Line and Septic System
Your sewer line and septic system need care to avoid backups:
- Schedule inspections every 2 to 3 years.
- Pump septic tanks as recommended.
- Watch for signs such as foul odors, slow-draining sinks or toilets, or a soggy lawn.
5. Sump Pump
A sump pump protects your basement from flooding:
- Test it by pouring water into the sump pit; it should activate immediately.
- Keep it free of debris.
- Replace units every 7–10 years or as needed.
DIY Plumbing Maintenance Tips vs. Professional Help
Many plumbing maintenance tips are DIY-friendly, but some require the expertise of a local plumber.
DIY Examples:
- Vinegar soaks for showerheads.
- Baking soda flushes to freshen drains.
- Checking visible pipes for moisture.
- Tracking your water bill monthly, unexpected spikes often mean plumbing leaks.
- Keeping a simple maintenance log of tasks like “flush water heater” or “pump septic tank.”
When to Call a Professional Plumber:
- Recurring plumbing leaks or frozen pipes.
- A pressure regulator does not fix low water pressure.
- Major plumbing services include sewer line repairs, sump pump replacement, and heating system upgrades.
Pro Tips to Keep Your Plumbing System Running Smoothly
- Always insulate exposed pipes before freezing weather.
- Use strainers in sinks to catch hair and debris.
- Schedule annual plumbing maintenance services to keep your plumbing system running smoothly.
- Never rely on chemical drain cleaners; they corrode pipes.
- Log your maintenance tasks so you don’t forget seasonal checks.
Conclusion: Protect Your Home with Regular Plumbing
Investing in regular plumbing maintenance is one of the most effective ways to protect your home, conserve resources, and prevent expensive repairs. With the right plumbing maintenance checklist, BC homeowners can keep their plumbing system running safely, extend the life of their water heater, and ensure reliable water flow.
For homeowners in Vernon, regular maintenance today means fewer headaches tomorrow. Schedule your annual plumbing inspection with a trusted professional and keep your home’s systems running smoothly.
Vernon Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical Services
909 Kalamalka Lake Rd, Vernon, BC V1T 6V4
Phone: 778-403-7886
Need help with Plumbing Issues? Book online or call today for fast services across the North Okanagan.
