What to Check During a Home Plumbing Walkthrough | Essential Tips

• 1- Introduction
• 2- Why a Plumbing Walkthrough is Essential
• 3- Key Things to Check During a Plumbing Walkthrough
• 4- How to Inspect Pipes and Fittings
• 5- Common Plumbing Issues to Spot
• 6- Real-Life Case: Plumbing Walkthrough Experience

1- Introduction

When purchasing a new home or preparing for a renovation, one of the most important aspects to review is the plumbing system. A plumbing walkthrough can help identify potential issues before they turn into costly repairs. Whether you're buying or maintaining your home, knowing what to look for during a plumbing inspection ensures you’re taking proactive steps to protect your home and your investment.

In this article, we will guide you through the essential things to check during a home plumbing walkthrough, providing tips and a checklist to ensure your plumbing is in top condition.

Advanced Plumbing & Septic Service

BloomfieldStoddard CountyMissouri

18695 Hannel Rd, Bloomfield, MO 63825, USA

2- Why a Plumbing Walkthrough is Essential

Plumbing issues can be elusive, sometimes presenting no immediate signs of trouble until a serious problem occurs. A plumbing walkthrough is essential for several reasons:

• Prevention of Expensive Repairs: Identifying potential issues early can save you from costly emergency repairs down the road.
• Ensuring Proper Functionality: Ensuring that the plumbing system is functioning correctly is crucial for a comfortable and safe living environment.
• Maintaining Property Value: Well-maintained plumbing is an important aspect of property value. Regular inspections help preserve this aspect of your home.

By regularly performing plumbing walkthroughs, you can prevent common plumbing issues like leaks, clogged drains, and inefficient systems from escalating into larger, more expensive problems.

AIM Plumbing California

HemetRiverside CountyCalifornia

340 Presidents Ave, Hemet, CA 92543, USA

3- Key Things to Check During a Plumbing Walkthrough

During a plumbing walkthrough, it's important to inspect key components of the system to ensure everything is in good working order. Below are the essential things to check during your inspection:

1. Water Pressure

Check the water pressure throughout your home by turning on faucets in the kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry room. Low water pressure can indicate a clogged pipe, an issue with the water heater, or even a more serious plumbing problem.

2. Pipes and Fittings

Examine the pipes under sinks and around the water heater for any visible signs of leaks, rust, or corrosion. These are common indicators of plumbing issues that need attention. Pay special attention to older homes where pipes may be nearing the end of their lifespan.

3. Drains

Test all drains by running water through them and ensuring they drain properly. Clogged drains can lead to bigger issues if left untreated, so checking for slow drainage or foul odors is important.

4. Water Heater

Inspect your water heater for signs of wear, leaks, or unusual noises. You should also ensure that it’s functioning properly, providing enough hot water for your household. Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your water heater.

5. Toilets

Check for any signs of leaks around the base of the toilet. You can also test the flush mechanism to ensure that it works properly. A running toilet can waste a significant amount of water, leading to higher utility bills.

4- How to Inspect Pipes and Fittings

Inspecting the pipes and fittings is one of the most important steps in a plumbing walkthrough. Here's how to do it effectively:

1. Look for Leaks

Start by checking around all visible pipes, especially under sinks and in the basement. Look for any signs of water damage, wet spots, or mold growth around the pipe connections. These can indicate hidden leaks that may not be immediately visible.

2. Check for Corrosion

Corrosion is a common issue with older plumbing systems. If you see any greenish or white buildup on pipes, it’s a sign that they may be corroding. Over time, corroded pipes can leak or burst, so it’s important to replace them before they cause major damage.

3. Inspect the Pipe Insulation

Ensure that the pipes are properly insulated, especially in colder climates. Insulation helps prevent pipes from freezing during the winter months, which can cause pipes to crack or burst.

5- Common Plumbing Issues to Spot

While conducting a plumbing walkthrough, keep an eye out for the following common plumbing issues:

1. Leaky Faucets

Leaky faucets are a sign that the seals or washers need replacing. While a small leak may not seem urgent, it can waste a significant amount of water over time, adding to your water bill.

2. Clogged Drains

If you notice slow drainage or unpleasant odors coming from the drains, this is a sign of a blockage. Clogged drains are often caused by debris, grease, or soap scum buildup in pipes, which can lead to more severe problems if not addressed.

3. Water Heater Issues

Old or malfunctioning water heaters can cause a variety of issues, including inconsistent water temperature, insufficient hot water, or leaks. If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it might be time to consider replacing it.

4. Running Toilets

A running toilet is often caused by a faulty flapper valve or an issue with the flush mechanism. It wastes water and increases your utility costs, so it should be repaired as soon as possible.

6- Real-Life Case: Plumbing Walkthrough Experience

Let’s look at a real-life example from Sarah, a homeowner who recently completed a plumbing walkthrough. During the inspection, Sarah discovered a slow leak in her kitchen sink pipe that had caused some water damage to the cabinet beneath. She also noticed that her water pressure had been lower than usual, signaling a potential clog in the main water line.

Thanks to the walkthrough, Sarah was able to hire a plumber to fix the leak and clear the clog, saving her hundreds of dollars in potential water damage repairs. This case demonstrates how important a plumbing walkthrough can be in preventing small issues from becoming costly problems.