5 Plumbing Checks to Avoid Repairs

Nothing makes you appreciate the quiet miracle of plumbing quite like an emergency water leak or an overflowing toilet.
Plumbing faults can lead to extensive damage and costly repairs, and the resulting interruption to your life is a good reminder of how important functioning plumbing is for everyday tasks. However, you can avoid many potential problems with regular inspections to catch issues before they cause severe damage.

Here are five regular plumbing checks to include on your plumbing checklist.

1. Check for Leaks

This is probably the most important DIY plumbing check that you can perform. A small leak can turn into a big one if left unchecked, resulting in expensive repairs.

You can check for leaks by looking for water stains on the ceiling or walls, or by checking your water meter. If the meter is spinning even when no water is running, you may have a leak.

Left unchecked, a plumbing leak can present a risk to health and even threaten your home’s structural integrity. Water is a subtle destroyer, even a small leak compounds over time to cause big problems.

2. Check Water Heater Pressure Valve

Your water heater pressure valve is responsible for regulating the pressure in your water heater.

If the pressure of the heater rises too high, the valve opens to release some of this pressure. Without it, this pressure can cause damage to your heater and plumbing.

All sorts of things can stop the valve from working, from age-based corrosion to mineral build-up. Regular plumbing checks should include this valve — while small, it’s a vital part of the system.

3. Listen for Noises

If you hear banging, hissing, or other strange noises coming from your plumbing, it could be a sign of a problem. These noises could suggest plumbing issues such as a clogged drain, a leak, or a broken pipe.

Knocking pipes can also suggest there are problems with your water pressure, leading to “water hammer” hydraulic shocks that could damage your pipes.

4. Look for Signs of Mould and Mildew

When checking your plumbing, remember that not all signs of plumbing problems are primary. Secondary signs like mould and mildew can develop when plumbing problems are not addressed in a timely manner. These develop in places with excess moisture, so they could suggest a leak from a damaged pipe or pinhole leak.

Simply cleaning the area won’t solve the primary problem. If you spot signs like these, have a plumber in right away to identify the source of the leak.

5. Test Your Taps

The way your taps respond to use is a good barometer for your overall water system. If they’re dripping, gushing, or taking too long to come on, it could be a sign that you have a plumbing problem.

Plumbing Checks for Peace of Mind

By carrying out these plumbing checks, you can rest assured knowing that your plumbing is in good condition and avoid costly repairs down the line.

These checks are easy to perform, so make sure to do them often to keep your plumbing in good condition — they’re the best method for avoiding plumbing repairs.

Spot an issue during your inspection? Contact the experts at Trouble Shooters plumbing today to schedule a plumbing repair in Scarborough and the Greater Toronto Area.