As the new school year approaches, it’s the perfect time to make sure your home’s plumbing system is in top shape. At Complete Plumbing and Drain, we understand how important it is to have everything running smoothly, especially during the busy school season.
Our team of professional plumbers in the Brandon area is here to help you avoid costly repairs and ensure your plumbing is in good working order. Before the first day of school arrives, let’s go through a comprehensive checklist to give you peace of mind and prevent potential problems down the line.
Inspecting Your Water Heater
With the school time rush, your water heater will be working overtime to keep up with everyone’s shower times. This makes the start of the new school year a great time to check your water heater’s condition. Look for signs of leaks, sediment buildup, or low water pressure, and consider scheduling a professional inspection to ensure your hot water system is in top shape.
Checking for Leaks and Drips
Even a small leak can lead to significant issues over time, especially during the busy school season. Inspect all faucets, showerheads, and exposed pipes for any signs of leaks or drips.
Regular maintenance, such as tightening connections or replacing worn washers, can go a long way in preventing potential water damage and high water bills.
- Inspect All Faucets:
- Check kitchen and bathroom faucets for drips, even if they’re slow or infrequent.
- Pay attention to any rust or water stains around the base, which could indicate a hidden leak.
- Examine Under Sinks:
- Look for water spots, dampness, or mold under sinks, especially around the pipes.
- Check for any signs of corrosion on pipes or fittings that could lead to leaks.
- Check Showerheads and Bathtubs:
- Ensure shower heads are not leaking from the connection point or along the hose.
- Look for water stains or dampness around the bathtub or shower enclosure.
- Inspect Toilets:
- Listen for running water in toilets when not in use, a sign of internal leaks.
- Test for leaks by placing a few drops of food coloring in the tank and checking if it seeps into the bowl without flushing.
- Review Water Heater and Appliances:
- Check around the base of the water heater for puddles or damp spots, indicating a possible leak.
- Inspect water-using appliances like dishwashers and washing machines for drips or water stains around connections.
- Monitor Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems:
- Check outdoor faucets for drips, especially if they’ve been turned off for a while.
- Inspect the sprinkler system for any broken or leaking heads that could waste water.
- Look at Ceilings and Walls:
- Watch for any discoloration or damp spots on ceilings and walls, which could signal a hidden leak in the plumbing system.
- Check the ceiling under bathrooms for signs of leaks from upstairs plumbing fixtures.
- Test the Water Meter:
- Turn off all water in the home and check the water meter. If it continues to run, there may be a hidden leak.
- Monitor the meter over a period of time to detect any small, ongoing leaks.
Maintaining Your Garbage Disposal
Your garbage disposal sees a lot of heavy use, especially during the summer months with the whole family at home. Before school time starts, take a moment to clean and inspect your disposal to ensure it’s in good condition. A simple precaution, like running a piece of citrus fruit through it, can help keep it fresh and prevent potential issues.
Inspecting Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems
Outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems are often overlooked, but they can cause complex problems if not maintained. Check for leaks, drips, or any signs of wear after the warmer weather. This is the perfect time to address any issues before the colder months arrive, helping to prevent potential flooding or water damage in your crawl space or sump pit.
Ensuring Bathroom Drains Are Clear
The last thing you need during a busy school morning is a clogged drain. Take some time to clean bathroom drains, removing any soap scum or hair buildup that could cause slow water flow. Drain covers are a great way to catch debris and keep your drains clear, ensuring a smooth transition into the new school year.
Inspecting Washing Machine Hoses
Washing machine hoses can wear out over time, especially after summer adventures and heavy use during the summer break. Check the hoses for any signs of leaks, cracks, or wear, and replace them if needed.
This simple task can prevent potential flooding and costly repairs, keeping your laundry appliances in good shape for the school season.
- Check for Visible Cracks and Wear:
- Inspect the hoses for any cracks, bulges, or signs of wear that could lead to leaks.
- Look closely where the hose connects to the machine and the water supply line, as these connection points are prone to damage.
- Test for Leaks:
- Run the washing machine and check for any water leaks around the hose connections.
- Make sure there are no drips or water spots on the floor, which could indicate a slow leak.
- Replace Worn Hoses:
- If you notice any damage or the hoses are more than five years old, consider replacing them with new, high-quality hoses.
- Opt for stainless steel braided hoses, which are more durable and less likely to burst.
- Tighten Loose Connections:
- Ensure that the connections at both ends of the hose are tight and secure to prevent water leaks.
- Avoid over-tightening, as this could damage the threads on the connections.
- Inspect the Water Supply Line:
- Check the water supply line for any leaks or signs of wear, as this can also lead to significant issues.
- If the water supply line is damaged, replace it immediately to prevent water damage.
- Schedule Routine Maintenance:
- Incorporate hose inspections into your regular plumbing maintenance routine to catch potential problems early.
- Consider scheduling a comprehensive plumbing inspection with professional plumbers for peace of mind.
By following this checklist, you can ensure your washing machine hoses are in good condition, helping to prevent potential flooding, water damage, and costly repairs during the busy school season.
Scheduling a Comprehensive Plumbing Inspection
With the new school year starting, it’s a great idea to schedule a comprehensive plumbing inspection by licensed plumbers. Professional plumbers have the expertise to identify potential issues that may not be visible to the untrained eye.
A proactive approach will ensure your home’s plumbing system is ready to handle the daily demands of the school season, giving you peace of mind and helping you avoid costly repairs.
Preparing Your Sump Pump for the Season
If your home has a sump pump, now is the time to ensure it’s in proper working order. Inspect the sump pit for debris, test the pump to make sure it’s functioning correctly, and check the discharge line for clogs. Proper functionality of your sump pump will prevent potential flooding, especially during the rainy season, and keep your home protected as your family settles into the new school year.
Simple Tips for a Smooth Back to School Season
Taking a little bit of time now to complete this back-to-school plumbing checklist can go a long way in preventing significant issues and costly repairs later. Complete Plumbing and Drain is committed to helping you keep your home’s plumbing system in perfect condition.
With our years of experience and dedication to customer satisfaction, you can trust us for all your plumbing needs, from routine maintenance to emergency repairs.
Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a major problem—contact Complete Plumbing and Drain today to ensure your plumbing system is ready for the school season ahead.