At Clements Plumbing Heating & Air, we understand that unexpected plumbing problems can disrupt your family's daily routine and strain your budget. After serving Missouri communities for over 50 years, we've seen how regular plumbing inspection can save you thousands in costly repairs and prevent water damage to your home.
While some plumbing issues require professional expertise, you can identify many potential problems early through systematic DIY inspection. This comprehensive checklist will help you spot warning signs and determine when it's time to call a plumber.
Visual Inspection of Pipes and Fixtures
Start your plumbing inspection by examining all visible pipes, joints, and fixtures throughout your home. Look for signs of corrosion, rust, or mineral buildup on exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and under sinks. Check pipe joints for any loose connections or signs of wear. Inspect faucets, showerheads, and toilet fixtures for cracks, chips, or discoloration that could indicate underlying issues.
Pay special attention to areas where pipes pass through walls or floors, as these transition points are common failure spots. Document any concerning findings with photos for reference when discussing issues with a professional.
Leak Checks Around the Home
Effective leak detection requires both visual inspection and listening skills. Check under all sinks, around toilets, and near appliances for pooled water or water stains. Look for warped flooring, peeling paint, or soft spots in walls that could indicate hidden leaks.
Test your toilet for leaks by adding food coloring to the tank—if colored water appears in the bowl without flushing, your home has a leak. Listen for dripping sounds, running water when fixtures aren't in use, or unusual gurgling noises that could signal drainage problems.
Drain and Water Pressure Testing
Test drain functionality by running water in all sinks, tubs, and showers. Water should drain quickly without backing up or making unusual sounds. Slow drainage often indicates a developing clog that could worsen over time.
Evaluate water pressure by turning on multiple fixtures simultaneously. Poor water pressure could signal pipe blockages, mineral buildup, or more serious plumbing issues. Check both hot and cold water pressure, as inconsistencies might indicate specific problems with your water heater or supply lines.
Water Heater and Appliance Inspection
Your water heater requires regular inspection to ensure safe, efficient operation. Check around the base for puddles or rust stains that indicate leaks. Listen for unusual noises, such as popping, crackling, or rumbling sounds, during operation. Inspect the temperature and pressure relief valve for proper function.
Include appliance inspection in your routine by checking connections to washing machines, dishwashers, and ice makers. Look for loose hoses, mineral buildup, or signs of water damage around these appliances.
Know When To Call a Plumber
While DIY plumbing inspection helps identify issues early, specific problems require professional expertise. Call a plumber immediately for gas line issues, sewer backups, major leaks, or when you're uncomfortable performing repairs. Additionally, if your plumbing inspection reveals multiple problems or issues you can't identify, a professional assessment is essential.
Don't wait for minor problems to become expensive emergencies. Clements Plumbing Heating & Air has served the Nevada, Lamar, and Carthage, Missouri communities for over 50 years with expert residential and commercial services. Schedule your free plumbing estimate today and let our trained professionals handle your plumbing needs.
