Unless you are a licensed plumber, scheduling a
household plumbing inspection annually is a good idea. If you skip annual inspections, there are still symptoms to look for that indicate you need to call a plumber. Unfortunately, waiting until a problem has become serious enough to notice will potentially result in much higher repair costs.
1. Rising Energy Costs
Faulty plumbing is a common cause of increasing energy and utility costs. A small drip of cold water can amount to many gallons of wasted water each month, and that amount increases quickly if the leak is in your hot water lines. But this increase is on the cheap side of plumbing issues, and a major leak such as a broken water line will multiply the water loss exponentially. A
household plumbing inspection will reveal the source of leaks, and your plumbing contractors will advise you on the best way to solve the problem.
2. Wet Places
Plumbing leaks are notorious for causing wet places in your lawn or standing water on your floors. Most homeowners will notice evidence of leaks before they notice higher utility costs. Exterior leaks may cause erosion or kill water-sensitive foliage, but interior leaks could potentially result in rotten flooring, crumbling drywall, and other serious damages. Either way, it is in your best interest to schedule an inspection and get the problem repaired as quickly as possible to avoid having to pay for more extensive home repairs related to a relatively minor initial problem.
3. Drain Problems
Drain problems are usually identified by water standing in sink, tub, or toilet drains. At first, the problem may be a slow-flowing drain, but over time that can lead to a drain that doesn't work at all. During your plumbing inspection, the plumbing technicians will attempt to open drains by plunging the line. If that doesn't work, they will use more advanced solutions such as extending a plumbing "snake" through the sewer lines. Some drain problems require more extensive repairs, such as replacing the wax seal on a toilet or even installing a
trenchless sewer line.
4. Water Heater Issues
Water heaters have parts that wear out over time, and the holding tank itself is usually rated for only 15 to 20 years. After that time, the tank may be affected by long-term corrosion that affects how well it can keep water hot, the condition of the tank itself, or clogs in the hot water lines. If you have problems with your water heater, a
home plumbing inspection will identify the cause and your plumbers will let you know whether repairs are in order or if your water heater needs to be replaced. If replacement is required, it may be a good time to consider upgrading to a tankless water heater that is more efficient and longer-lasting than traditional tanked systems.
Plumbing inspections identify all problems with your water supply and sewage disposal. Well-qualified plumbing inspectors arrive at your location with the tools and experience to make the most common repairs right away, and issues that require more specialized plumbing services will be scheduled. The plumbers will do what is necessary to stop leaks immediately to prevent additional damages from happening before the repair crew arrives.
