Feb15

By Dave Bangar

Kelowna Home Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or just bought your first home, maintaining the plumbing in your home is an essential part of Kelowna home care. Keeping an eye on your plumbing system can save you from surprises and ensure your home’s water systems work efficiently year-round. 

From the drains in your kitchen to the pipes in your basement, this comprehensive plumbing maintenance checklist is designed to help you stay on top of potential plumbing issues. By following this checklist, you can extend the life of your plumbing fixtures, improve your home’s water efficiency, and avoid the inconvenience of major plumbing issues. 

Let’s dive into the key maintenance tasks that every Kelowna homeowner should regularly perform to keep their plumbing in tip-top shape.

Your Kelowna Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

Clean Drains and P-Traps

Regularly clean your drains and the P-traps underneath sinks to prevent clogs. Remove debris manually, with a plumber’s snake, or use a mild drain cleaner. For more serious clogs, you may need to call a plumber for help. 

Check for Leaks

Inspect all exposed pipes, faucets, and under sinks for signs of leaks. Look for moisture, rust, or water stains. Leaky pipes can not only lead to expensive water bills but failing to notice leaky pipes can cause serious water damage. 

Inspect Pipes for Corrosion

Check all visible pipes for signs of corrosion. Look for discoloration, stains, or flaking on your pipes. Corroded pipes can lead to leaks and water quality issues. If you notice any signs of corrosion, consider replacing the pipe as soon as possible.

Clean Faucet Aerators

Faucet aerators should be cleaned regularly. Unscrew the aerator from the end of the faucet, remove any debris, and rinse it out. This is a simple piece of maintenance that can significantly improve water flow and prevent blockages.

Examine Toilet Tanks

A running toilet can waste a surprising amount of water. Remove the tank lid and check for any signs of leaks or malfunctioning components like the flapper or fill valve. 

Maintain Your Water Heater

Drain and flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup, which can affect its efficiency and lifespan. Don’t forget to check the temperature and pressure relief valve and the anode rod for signs of wear or damage.

Test the Water Pressure

Use a water pressure gauge on an outdoor fixture. Normal pressure should be between 40-60 psi. High pressure can damage plumbing fixtures, while low pressure can indicate potential blockages or leaks. 

Check Your Sump Pump

If your home has a basement, it most likely has a sump pump to protect against flooding. Test your sump pump annually by pouring water into the sump pit. The pump should activate, remove the water, and then turn off automatically. Ensure the discharge line is clear of obstructions.

Maintain Your Septic System and Sewer Line

Whether your home has a septic system or is on a public sewer system, waste has to be transported out of your home somehow. Having backups in your sewer line isn’t something you want to deal with. Avoid issues by scheduling regular inspections and pumping for your septic system to prevent backups. To keep sewer lines clear, avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper.

Inspect Washing Machine Hoses 

Washing machine hoses can deteriorate over time. To prevent bursts and leakages, check hoses regularly for cracks, leaks, or bulging. Hoses should be replaced every five years or so to avoid any major issues. 

Call a Plumber to Schedule a Routing Inspection

Many of these tasks can be done quickly by any homeowner, but in addition to simple checks for leaks, Kelowna homeowners should consider scheduling routine plumbing inspections every couple of years or when they plan to sell their homes. During an inspection, your plumber will check all of the above items, and ensure all fixtures are working well. 

The plumbers at My Plumber Kelowna can help you with all of your plumbing needs. From routine inspections to urgent plumbing emergencies. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to have one of our experienced plumbers come to your home for an inspection or repair.