No one plans for a plumbing emergency, but it’s always best to be prepared. A plumbing failure can cause extensive damage and disrupt your routine, which is why preventive plumbing care is essential. By following a plumbing maintenance checklist, you can help avoid costly repairs and keep your plumbing system running smoothly throughout the year. While some tasks may require the expertise of one of our professional plumbers, many preventive plumbing care tasks can be handled yourself.
When you need us, Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating Ltd. offers expert plumbing services in Red Deer, Lacombe, Sylvan Lake, AB, and surrounding areas. We’re here to help you maintain your plumbing system and avoid unexpected breakdowns. In the meantime, these home plumbing tips are the essential tasks that will help ensure that all critical components of your plumbing system, such as pipes, water heaters, drains, and valves, are functioning properly:
Plumbing Inspection Checklist
1. Clear All Drains & P-Traps
Why it’s important: Drains and P-traps (the U-shaped pipes under sinks) can become clogged over time, leading to slow drainage and potential backups. Clean them four times a year to maintain proper water flow.
DIY tip: You can clean your drains yourself, but if you prefer, Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating Ltd. is happy to handle the job for you.
2. Clean Your Faucet Aerators
Why it’s important: Faucet aerators can accumulate calcium buildup, which reduces water pressure and causes inconsistent water flow.
DIY tip: Remove and clean aerators regularly to ensure steady water pressure. If you’re unsure how to do this, our team at Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating Ltd. can assist.
3. Inspect Visible Pipes for Corrosion
Why it’s important: Corroded pipes are more prone to leaks and failures. Look for signs of rust or green/blue deposits on your pipes, which could indicate corrosion.
Tip: If you notice corrosion, call a professional plumber to inspect and repair your pipes before they cause further damage.
4. Maintain Your Septic System & Sewer Line
Why it’s important: A well-maintained septic system prevents costly backups and potential contamination. Schedule inspections of your septic system and sewer line twice a year to avoid costly repairs and health hazards.
Tip: Regular maintenance and early intervention can save you significant time and money.
5. Water Heater Maintenance
Why it’s important: Sediment buildup in your water heater can cause inefficiency, while damaged hoses can lead to leaks. Regular preventive plumbing care and maintenance ensures your water heater works safely and efficiently.
Tip: Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment, and check hoses for cracks or leaks. Call us for a professional inspection if needed.
6. Test Water Pressure
Why it’s important: Low water pressure can be frustrating and high pressure can damage pipes. Testing your water pressure ensures that it’s within the optimal range (40–60 psi).
Tip: If you find that your water pressure is too high or too low, call Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating Ltd. for a pressure adjustment. When in doubt, find your water shutoff valve and turn it down of off while you call us for service.
Daily Home Plumbing Tips
Your kitchen and bathroom are the two areas most prone to plumbing issues and they could affect the rest of the home. Here are a few daily home plumbing tips to keep these areas running smoothly:
In the Kitchen
- Avoid putting fibrous food waste in the garbage disposal (such as banana peels, celery, and potato skins). These materials can cause clogs.
- Let cold water run for at least 15 seconds after using the garbage disposal to help flush food waste down the line.
- Run your dishwasher at night to conserve hot water and maintain optimal water pressure during the day.
In the Bathroom
- Limit bath oil use to prevent clogged drains, and install screens on sinks and shower drains to catch hair.
- Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Even if wipes or feminine hygiene products are labelled as “flushable,” they can cause serious plumbing issues.
- Avoid chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage your pipes and lead to more expensive repairs in the future.
Contact Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating Ltd. for Professional Help
Regularly following this preventive plumbing maintenance checklist helps you catch small issues before they become major problems. From inspections and cleaning to testing and adjustments, our expert plumbers provide a range of plumbing services that help keep your system in top condition.
At Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating Ltd., we also offer HVAC services for all your heating and cooling needs in Red Deer, Lacombe, Sylvan Lake, AB, and surrounding areas. Whether you need plumbing maintenance or HVAC services, our team is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Proudly serving urban and rural customers within approximately 100km of Red Deer, Alberta.