How Regularly Should My Plumbing System Be Inspected?

Plumbers are always there when you need them, but how often should that be? Emergency plumbing repair isn’t the only service available, and there are many services you can benefit from beyond fixes and installations. When it comes to plumbing basics, San Diego homeowners should understand how essential routine inspections are for keeping a home’s system working properly, forecasting any potential problems, and preventing damage.

When to Have an Inspection

You should have your home’s plumbing inspected at least once every two years, but there are some circumstances when you might want to call a plumber sooner. Homes that are more than 50 years old will require more routine maintenance. Homes should also be inspected before and after they’re sold. This can identify any potential hazards or repairs that need to be made to ensure there’s no negative impact on the new residents. 

Houses with full-grown trees on the surrounding property should also have annual inspections. Tree root invasion is the leading cause of sewer pipe blockages and other plumbing obstructions. A plumber can quickly identify whether a tree is going to cause problems for your home and come up with fast, effective solutions. 

What Happens During a Plumbing Inspection?

A thorough inspection involves taking a look at a home’s entire system as well as investigating individual pipes. Rather than simply checking for any signs of damage, such as leaks or dripping faucets, a good plumber knows to address the integrity of the whole system. The plumber will use top-of-the-line technology and techniques to assess the structure of the home and its plumbing components, such as:

• Water pressure PSI
• Drain lines
• Sink, shower, and tub drains
• Valves and vent functionality
• Pipe integrity 
• Plumbing insulation

The entire inspection will culminate by ensuring the plumbing is up to code. 

After an Inspection

Once the plumber has finished the inspection, he or she will report the findings to you and go over any problems one by one. Then the plumber will tackle the potential solutions. The most common household plumbing problems are easy to correct, such as resealing pipes, tightening loose faucets, and flushing the water heater.

Older homes may require more extensive preventative work or upgrades, which your plumber can help you address within your budget. If you’re planning a home remodel, it’s always a good idea to first consult with a plumber and have an inspection. This will ensure there are no underlying problems that need to be repaired, and it will guide your decision-making process as you explore new types of showers, tubs, sinks, and toilets.

Unless your plumber recommends more frequent inspections, you should be able to keep a two-year inspection on your home maintenance to-do list.

Homeowners who aren’t familiar with the basics of plumbing should call on professionals to perform inspections so their plumbing systems remain in good working order. When they need high-quality professional residential plumbing services, San Diego homeowners can rely on Burke Contractors. Our plumbing contractors are the best available, and you can count on them to identify and solve any and all of your plumbing issues. To schedule an appointment with one of our plumbing contractors, call us today at 858-208-7765.