Preventative Plumbing Maintenance: Year-Round Checklist

Every homeowner faces it eventually—a leaky faucet, a clogged drain, or worse, a burst pipe in the middle of the night. The truth is, most major plumbing disasters start as small, sneaky problems. At A+ Plumbing, we know that a little prevention goes a long way. Think of plumbing maintenance like brushing your teeth: you wouldn’t skip it, because you know the pain and cost of ignoring it.

So, whether you’re worried about sudden water stains on the ceiling, or you just want to keep your water heater running smooth, this guide is for you. Let’s walk through what you can do—month by month, season by season—to keep your pipes, fixtures, and peace of mind in top shape.

Why Maintenance Matters 🛠️

Imagine your plumbing as the veins of your house. Just like your body, hidden issues can build up over time. A slow drip can waste thousands of gallons of water a year (EPA). Corroded pipes can turn a quiet evening into an emergency plumbing call.

Routine checks keep you ahead of:

• Unexpected leaks and water damage
• Mold, mildew, and costly repairs
• Sudden water heater or boiler breakdowns
• Sewer backups and foul odors

Plus, regular maintenance helps you spot small issues before they become wallet-draining disasters. If you ever need Sewer Line Repair near you, wouldn’t you rather catch the problem before your yard gets dug up?

Monthly Plumbing Tasks

You don’t need a toolbox full of gadgets to stay on top of plumbing. Set aside just a few minutes each month for these simple checks:

1. Inspect Visible Pipes and Fixtures

• Look under sinks for signs of moisture, rust, or mineral deposits.
• Check faucets, showerheads, and toilets for drips or leaks.
• Wiggle toilets gently to ensure they’re firmly in place.

2. Clean Drains

• Pour hot (not boiling) water down sinks and showers to help clear soap scum and debris.
• Consider a mix of baking soda and vinegar for a gentle drain refresh—never harsh chemicals.

3. Watch for Water Pressure Changes

• Low pressure? Could be a hidden leak or clogged pipe.
• Sudden spikes? That’s hard on pipes and appliances.

4. Test Your Sump Pump (if you have one)

• Pour a bucket of water in the pit. It should kick on and drain fast.

5. Listen and Smell

• Gurgling drains, banging pipes, or sewer odors are early warning signs.

Seasonal & Annual Checks

The seasons change. Your plumbing needs do, too. Here’s how to adapt your care throughout the year:

Spring

• Check for leaks or cracks in outdoor faucets and hoses after winter.
• Inspect exposed pipes for signs of frost damage.
• Schedule a Sewer Line Inspection if you had slow drains or backups during the winter.

Summer

• Test your sump pump before heavy rains.
• Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent water pooling near your foundation.

Fall

• Disconnect and store garden hoses.
• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas (garages, crawl spaces).
• Drain and flush your water heater to remove sediment buildup (CDC recommends annual flushing).

Winter

• Let faucets drip on extra-cold nights to prevent freezing.
• Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to let warm air circulate.
• Know where your main water shutoff valve is—mark it for fast access.

Annual To-Do’s

• Schedule a professional water heater inspection and flush.
• Have a plumber check water pressure and test all shutoff valves.
• Get a whole-home leak detection (especially before or after major weather events).
• Backflow testing for homes with irrigation or fire suppression systems.

Download Your Printable Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

[Right-click and print this checklist, or save it to your phone for easy reference!]

• Check all visible pipes and fixtures for leaks
• Clean out sink and shower drains with hot water
• Test water pressure at faucets
• Inspect toilets for movement and leaks
• Listen for unusual pipe noises
• Check sump pump (if present)
• Flush water heater (annual)
• Insulate exposed pipes before winter
• Disconnect and store hoses in fall
• Schedule professional inspection annually

When to Call a Pro

Some jobs are easy fixes. Others? Not so much. If you spot any of these, it’s time to call A+ Plumbing:

• Persistent leaks or water stains on ceilings and walls
• Low water pressure throughout your home
• Sewer smells that don’t go away
• Water heater making banging or popping noises
• Sudden spike in your water bill
• Any sign of gas odor near appliances—leave immediately and call for help

Licensed and insured plumbers—like our team at A+ Plumbing—are trained to handle everything from Leak Detection to Boiler Repair, and our work is always backed by manufacturer warranties.

Monthly, Seasonal, and Annual DIY Checklist at a Glance

• Monthly: Check pipes/fixtures, clear drains, test sump pump, watch for pressure changes.
• Spring: Outdoor pipes and hoses, schedule sewer inspections.
• Summer: Sump pump test, gutter cleaning.
• Fall: Insulate pipes, flush heater, disconnect hoses.
• Winter: Drip faucets, open cabinets, mark shutoff valve.
• Annual: Water heater service, professional inspection, leak detection, backflow testing.

Local & Seasonal Considerations 🌦️

Your plumbing faces unique challenges depending on your climate:

• Cold climates: Insulate pipes early, and keep your home above 55°F. Freezing pipes are a top cause of emergency plumbing calls.
• Humid areas: Watch for mold or mildew around sinks and in basements. Good ventilation is key.
• Dry zones: Mineral buildup from hard water can clog pipes faster—annual water heater flushing is especially important.

Check with your local building code office or the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) for any specific requirements in your area.

When It’s an Emergency

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, disaster strikes. Burst pipe? Major leak? Toilet overflowing and won’t stop? Shut off your main water immediately. Then, call for emergency plumbing help.

Remember, quick action can mean the difference between a minor fix and major repair. If you find yourself searching for Sewer Line Repair near you at 2 a.m., know that acting fast makes all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I flush my water heater?

At least once a year. More often if you have hard water. This helps prevent sediment buildup, which can shorten your heater’s life.

What’s the best way to prevent frozen pipes?

Insulate exposed pipes, especially in attics, basements, and along exterior walls. On very cold nights, let faucets drip and keep cabinet doors open under sinks.

Can I use chemical drain cleaners?

It’s better to avoid them. Harsh chemicals can damage your pipes and fixtures. Stick to hot water, baking soda, and vinegar—or call a plumber if you have a stubborn clog.

Why does my water bill suddenly spike?

Hidden leaks are the most common cause. Check for dripping faucets, running toilets, or wet spots around your home. If you can’t find the source, call A+ Plumbing for Leak Detection.

Keep Your Plumbing—and Your Home—Running Smooth

Plumbing might not be glamorous, but staying ahead of problems keeps your home safe, dry, and comfortable. Regular maintenance isn’t just a chore—it’s peace of mind. And when you need help, our licensed, insured, and warranty-backed team is here for you.

Call A+ Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  888-568-9182 .