DIY Plumbing Inspection
<p></p> <img src="https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/Article_Webp/AdobeStock_479613163.webp?w=1920&q=75" alt="undefined" style="height: ;width: "/> <p></p> <p>Conducting your own plumbing inspection can help you identify potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to performing a basic plumbing system inspection at home.</p> <p><strong>Understand your system’s layout. </strong>Knowing the location of main water shut-off valves and understanding the routes of pipes can be invaluable during emergencies or while troubleshooting issues.</p> <p><strong>Check for leaks.</strong> Check all exposed pipes in the basement, under sinks and around toilets for signs of leaks. Look for wet spots, drips or any signs of moisture on walls and ceilings that could indicate hidden leaks.</p> <p><strong>Test water pressure.</strong> Water pressure that’s too high can damage your plumbing fixtures, while low pressure can indicate a problem in your system. You can test water pressure with a gauge that screws onto a garden hose or faucet. A normal range is between 40-60 pounds per square inch (psi).</p> <p><strong>Examine toilets.</strong> Check for toilet leaks by adding a few drops of food coloring to the tank and waiting about 30 minutes. If color appears in the bowl, there may be a leak from the tank to the bowl. Also, inspect the base of the toilet for signs of leaks or damage.</p> <p><strong>Check the water heater.</strong> Look around the base of your water heater for signs of leaks or corrosion. Also, check the age of your unit—most water heaters have a life span of 10 to 15 years. Make sure the temperature setting is safe (typically around 120°F) to prevent scalding and reduce energy consumption.</p> <p><strong>Inspect outdoor spigots and sprinklers. </strong>Winter weather can damage outdoor spigots and sprinklers, so it’s important to check these when the season changes. </p> <p><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a></p> <p><strong>Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/sonoma-plumbing/" target="_self">Sonoma County Plumbers</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/contra-costa-plumbing/" target="_self">Contra Costa County Plumbers</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/san-francisco-plumbing/" target="_self">San Francisco Plumbers</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/santa-clara-plumbing/" target="_self">Santa Clara County Plumbers</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/solano-plumbing/" target="_self">Solano County Plumbers </a> </p> <p><strong>Related Articles</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/home-inspections-of-all-types/" target="_self">The Essential Guide to Home Inspections of All Types</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top Rated Local Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a> </p>
