Similar to our HVAC system, our plumbing system is designed to withstand the test of time, pressures from the ever-changing weather, and other factors that attempt to decrease its durability. However, if you don’t take care of your system, fixtures, faucets, or drains, you may end up needing costly repair or even replacement services.

That’s why our skilled plumbers have created this comprehensive plumbing maintenance and inspection checklist so you can ensure the functionality of your home and commercial property’s plumbing system. This plumbing advice will help you take better care of your system while reminding you to check places you may not have thought of.

plumbing maintenance checklist

Bathroom Plumbing Maintenance

When going over a plumbing inspection checklist, the rooms that will get the most time spent in them are most likely the bathrooms. In a full bathroom, you’ll have a toilet, sink, shower/bathtub, and maybe even more if you’ve added fixtures during a renovation.

It’s imperative that you keep your bathroom in pristine condition to avoid contaminated water, significant water damage, and other avoidable issues. Consult this bathroom plumbing checklist when conducting inspections:

Check the Faucets: Regularly inspect both the sink and shower/tub faucets for any signs of leaks or dripping. Ensure that handles are functioning properly and address any minor leaks promptly to prevent water wastage and potential damage.
Clear All Drains: Take the time to clear out any debris or hair that may be causing slow drainage in sinks, showers, and tubs. If there is a clog, use a drain snake or other drain cleaning devices to remove the blockage.
Test the Toilet’s Flush: Test the flushing mechanism of your toilet to ensure it is working efficiently. If you notice any weak flushing, unusual sounds, or vibrating from pipes, it may be an indication of a problem.
Inspect the Toilet’s Wax Ring: Check the wax ring beneath the toilet for signs of wear or damage. The wax ring prevents water leakage by creating a tight seal between the toilet’s base and the floor. If there are any cracks or deterioration, replace the wax ring to prevent potential leaks.
Caulk Any Cracks or Gaps: Examine the caulking around the edges of your bathroom fixtures, including the bathtub, shower, toilet, and sink. Replace any cracked or deteriorated caulking to prevent water seepage. Unattended excess water could lead to mold or damage to surrounding structures.
Test All Shut-Off Valves: Ensure that all shut-off valves for sinks, toilets, and showers are in proper working order. Test them by turning them off and on to confirm they can effectively control the water flow. If you notice any issues, such as leaks or difficulty turning the valves, consider replacing them promptly.

Kitchen Plumbing Maintenance

After you’ve inspected all of the bathrooms in your home or commercial property, it’s now time to inspect the kitchen. Your kitchen is home to many appliances and fixtures that require adequate plumbing, including versatile sinks with drains, faucets, a dishwasher, and your refrigerator/freezer.

In this commercial and residential plumbing inspection checklist, we’ll go beyond the basic tasks and make sure your entire kitchen is safe and efficient.

Inspect P-Trap: Ensure the P-Trap under your kitchen sink is in good condition. Look for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or blockages. The P-Trap prevents sewer gasses from entering your home, so a thorough inspection is essential for maintaining a healthy and odor-free kitchen.
Clean Out Drains: Unlike bathroom drains that deal with hair and soap scum, kitchen drains often face food debris. Regularly clear out any accumulated food particles to prevent clogs and ensure smooth water drainage. Consider using a drain snake or natural cleaning agents to keep your kitchen pipes free-flowing.
Inspect the Faucets: Examine the kitchen faucets for any leaks or drips. Check both the spout and handles. Ensure that the water flow is consistent and there are no unusual noises. Repair any leaks promptly to conserve water and prevent potential water damage to your kitchen fixtures.
Test the Shut-Off Valves: Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and test them to ensure they are functioning correctly. Turning off the water supply in case of a leak or during maintenance is crucial.
Check the Garbage Disposal: Run the garbage disposal and listen for any unusual noises. Check for leaks around the disposal unit and safely inspect the blades to ensure they are sharp. Learn garbage disposal tips like grinding ice cubes or citrus peels to help clean and maintain the disposal’s efficiency.
Test the Dishwasher: Run a dishwasher cycle to check for proper functionality. Inspect the door gasket for any signs of damage and ensure there are no leaks. Clean the dishwasher filter regularly to prevent clogs and maintain optimal performance.
Check the Refrigerator Lines & Filters: Inspect the water lines connected to your refrigerator for leaks or wear. Replace the water filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure a clean and fresh water supply. This helps maintain the efficiency of your refrigerator and prolong the life of its components.

Additional Plumbing Maintenance

Along with the rooms in your home that are more prone to plumbing problems, part of a home plumbing inspection checklist is to inspect your plumbing fixtures and appliances, like the water heater and washing machine.

Water Heater Maintenance Checklist

Check for Leaks: Inspect the water heater for any signs of leaks, including puddles or dampness. Address leaks promptly to prevent water damage.
Test the Pressure Relief Valve: Raise and release the pressure relief valve to ensure it operates smoothly. This helps prevent excessive pressure buildup inside the tank.
Flush the Tank: Regularly flush the water heater to remove sediment buildup. This enhances efficiency and prolongs the lifespan of the unit.
Inspect the Anode Rod: Check the condition of the anode rod. If it’s significantly corroded, consider replacement to protect the tank from rusting.
Adjust the Temperature: Place the unit’s temperature at a safe and energy-efficient level. Typically, 120°F (49°C) is recommended to prevent scalding and save energy.

Washing Machine Maintenance Checklist

Inspect Hoses: Check washing machine hoses for signs of wear, cracks, or leaks. Replace hoses every three to five years, even if they appear in good condition, to prevent water damage.
Verify Water Supply Connections: Ensure the water supply connections are tight and leak-free. Inspect the valves for any drips and address issues promptly.
Examine Drain Hose: Inspect the drain hose for kinks or blockages. A clear and properly positioned drain hose is crucial for effective water drainage.

Outdoor Plumbing Maintenance

Faucet Inspection: Examine outdoor faucets to identify any sewage leaks and ensure they are functioning correctly. Addressing issues promptly helps prevent water wastage and potential damage to your outdoor plumbing.
Hose Connection Check: Inspect hose connections for signs of damage or leaks. Tighten fittings and replace damaged hoses to maintain a secure and efficient water supply for your outdoor activities.
Sprinkler System Maintenance: Verify the efficient operation of your sprinkler system by checking for clogs and broken components. Ensure even water distribution across your lawn or garden to promote healthy plant growth.
Sewage Warning Signs: Keep an eye out for visible signs of sewage backups or unpleasant odors around your outdoor plumbing. Detecting these early indicators allows for timely intervention and prevents potential sewage system issues.

If you need professional help with your residential or commercial plumbing maintenance checklist, reach out to us at Tiger Services, LLC. Our plumbing maintenance company in Collinsville, Springfield, Bloomington, and Peoria, Illinois, is here to help make your home safer and more efficient.