Annual Preventative Maintenance Keeps Your Home’s Plumbing System Flowing Freely
Annual plumbing preventative maintenance is far more cost-effective than searching for emergency service when a plumbing crisis occurs. Though most of your home’s plumbing is out of sight, it has a way of letting you know when it’s been neglected. The minor annoyances of a clogged drain, low water pressure and noisy pipes are nothing compared to calamities like a water supply line rupture or a toxic sewage backup. More than simply inconvenient, these occasions can be major expenses as well.
What to Expect From Plumbing Preventative Maintenance
A typical basic plumbing preventative maintenance plan includes an annual evaluation and tune-up, priority service when repairs are required and a discount on repair costs. The higher level plans add extra value, such as free parts and labor on repairs, as well as discounts on the installation of new equipment.
The annual system evaluation is the cornerstone of an effective plumbing preventative maintenance plan. Here’s what’s involved:
- Locate and test the main water shutoff valve. If you ever have a pipe rupture, it needs to be fully operational.
- Verify proper water pressure. Residential water pressure regulators may lose adjustment or malfunction.
- Inspect washing machine supply hoses. These are major suspects for potential rupture and severe water damage.
- Check proper drain function at all sinks and fixtures.
- Inspect the sump pump. It’s the only thing standing between you and a flooded basement if water inundation occurs.
- Visually inspect all supply lines. Big leaks often give small warnings if you know where to look.
- Inspect the caulking around tub and shower enclosures.
- Test for mineral content of water supply. Hard water plugs pipes and corrodes water heaters.
- Test function of shower heads. Mineral deposits may clog nozzles.
- Dye test the toilet tank. A leaky tank flapper valve wastes lots of water.
- Verify proper function of shut-off valves at all fixtures.
- Look for leaks around the disposal and check for proper operation.
- Inspect outside faucets. Dripping here often goes unnoticed.
After an evaluation, you’ll receive a written report detailing any problems and recommended service.
For more information on a plumbing preventative maintenance plan to fit your budget, contact Apollo Home Heating, Cooling and Plumbing.
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