Plumbing Maintenance Checklist for New Homeowners

05/26/2025

Buying a new home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with maintaining key systems, especially your plumbing. Minor issues can grow into expensive repairs that could have been avoided without regular upkeep. A proactive approach helps protect your investment and keeps your home running smoothly. That’s why every new homeowner should have a detailed plumbing maintenance checklist in place.

From inspecting pipes to testing water pressure, preventative maintenance ensures your plumbing system works efficiently for years. Catching problems early can save you from water damage, high utility bills, and emergency repairs.

Inspect for Leaks Throughout the Home

Small leaks often go unnoticed but can cause major problems over time. Moisture from a leaky pipe or fitting can lead to mold growth, warped cabinetry, and costly water damage. New homeowners should thoroughly inspect under sinks, toilets, and nearby appliances for any signs of dripping or pooling water. Include leak checks in your maintenance checklist to stay ahead of hidden problems.

Even minor leaks can indicate larger pressure or pipe integrity issues. Water stains on ceilings or walls might suggest a leak from a pipe behind the surface. Faucets that won’t shut off completely or toilets that run constantly can also be signs of trouble. Regularly checking these areas prevents minor issues from spiraling into major repairs.

maintenance checklist

Appliances with water lines, such as dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators, also deserve attention. Look for corrosion, loose hoses, or damp flooring nearby. These areas are commonly overlooked but can be high-risk for unnoticed leaks. Your maintenance checklist should ensure all appliance connections are tight and leak-free.

If leaks are detected, addressing them right away is crucial. Use plumbing tape or fittings for quick fixes and call a licensed plumber for more complex problems. Staying on top of leak inspections helps extend the life of your fixtures and reduces your risk of water damage. Prevention is always more affordable than repair.

Check Water Pressure Levels

Water pressure that's too high or too low can lead to inefficient plumbing and long-term damage. Excessive pressure stresses your pipes, appliances, and fixtures, eventually causing them to wear out prematurely. On the other hand, weak water pressure might indicate a blockage, a valve issue, or an aging pipe. That's why monitoring water pressure should be part of your plumbing maintenance checklist.

Attach a gauge to an outdoor spigot or laundry faucet to test your pressure. Safe pressure levels for residential systems typically range between 50 and 70 psi. Readings above 80 psi should be addressed immediately to prevent plumbing failures. Identifying abnormal pressure early protects your home’s plumbing network.

Low pressure, while not as immediately concerning, may still point to a developing issue. Sediment buildup in pipes, corroded fixtures, or problems with your municipal water supply could all be to blame. A professional plumber can inspect your system to pinpoint the cause. Having this step on your checklist ensures you’ll detect problems before they worsen.

Pressure issues often appear gradually, so routine testing should be done at least twice a year. Schedule it seasonally or after major plumbing work is completed. Maintaining proper pressure improves plumbing efficiency and conserves water. It’s a quick step with long-term benefits.

Flush the Water Heater

Your water heater plays a crucial role in daily comfort, but it often gets overlooked in home maintenance. Over time, sediment accumulates at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and shortening the unit’s lifespan. Flushing the tank annually helps remove buildup and maintain performance. It’s an important task to include on any home plumbing maintenance checklist.

Sediment buildup causes the heater to work harder and increases your energy bills. It can also lead to unusual noises, rust-colored water, or inconsistent temperatures. Flushing the tank is a simple process that extends the heater’s life and keeps your water clean. It’s essential in areas with hard water.

New homeowners should learn where the water heater’s shutoff valves and drain are located. Flushing involves turning off the power, attaching a hose to the drain valve, and releasing water until it clears. Afterward, you can refill the tank and restore power. Following these steps annually avoids problems and improves performance.

If you’re unsure how to perform a flush, contact a licensed plumber to handle it safely. Regular maintenance like this can add years to your water heater's life. Including water heater care in your checklist ensures reliable hot water and prevents unexpected breakdowns. Simple upkeep leads to long-term peace of mind.

Clear and Clean Drains

Drains are the unsung heroes of your home’s plumbing system, carrying away wastewater quickly and cleanly. When clogged or slow, they disrupt your daily routine and may cause backflow or pipe damage. Regular cleaning keeps everything flowing efficiently and helps detect deeper issues early. That’s why drain care is a key part of any homeowner's plumbing maintenance checklist.

Hair, soap, food, and grease are the most common culprits of blockages. Preventative tools like sink strainers or drain guards help minimize buildup in the first place. Natural cleaners like baking soda and vinegar are effective, eco-friendly options for regular flushing. Avoid chemical cleaners that can damage your pipes over time.

Due to the volume of hair and product use, bathroom drains require more frequent attention. Showers and sinks should be cleaned monthly, especially if you notice slow drainage. Kitchen drains can also clog easily from oil, rice, or coffee grounds that slip past filters. Make checking and clearing drains a monthly habit.

For stubborn clogs, a professional plumber can use tools like hydro jetters or drain snakes to clear the line without harming your pipes. Professional help ensures thorough results and may uncover hidden plumbing issues. Adding regular drain maintenance to your checklist prevents unpleasant surprises and keeps your system running smoothly. Clean pipes mean a cleaner home.

Test Shutoff Valves and Emergency Controls

Knowing how to quickly stop water flow in an emergency can save your home from extensive damage. Every new homeowner should locate and test the shutoff valves for all major plumbing fixtures. These include valves under sinks, behind toilets, and the main water shutoff for the house. Functional shutoff valves are a crucial part of your maintenance checklist.

Testing is simple: turn each valve off and back on to ensure it moves freely and shuts water off completely. If a valve is stuck or leaking, replace it right away. Corroded or frozen valves are common in older homes and can fail during emergencies. Keeping them operational should never be overlooked.

Include emergency preparedness in your maintenance checklist. Knowing how to cut off water quickly during a pipe burst or leak can prevent thousands of dollars in damage. Teach all family members where the main shutoff valve is and how to operate it. Preparedness adds a layer of security to your plumbing system.

Those systems should also be checked regularly if your home uses healthy water or has a sump pump. Inspect power supplies, float switches, and battery backups. Routine checks ensure that your emergency controls are ready when you need them most. A few minutes of planning can prevent major emergencies later on.

Build a Healthy Plumbing Habit With This Maintenance Checklist

Taking care of your plumbing doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you start with a solid plan. Following a thorough maintenance checklist helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Routine tasks like checking for leaks, flushing the water heater, and cleaning drains ensure your plumbing system stays in peak condition. Good habits lead to lower water bills, cleaner water, and a more comfortable home.

If you’ve recently moved in or simply want a reliable plan to maintain your home, Good Guys Plumbing can help. Our team of experts can assist with inspections, repairs, and preventive maintenance tailored to your home’s unique needs. Talk to us today to schedule a visit and take the guesswork out of plumbing upkeep. Let’s build a plan that protects your investment for years to come.

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