As we welcome a new year, it’s the perfect time to take stock of your home maintenance needs. A little preventative plumbing maintenance goes a long way!
Whether you’re looking to reduce the risk of costly repairs, improve water efficiency, or simply gain peace of mind, this annual checklist will help ensure your plumbing system is in good shape for the year ahead.
Annual Plumbing Maintenance Checklist
1. Inspect for Leaks
Even a small, slow leak can lead to mold, water damage, or increased utility bills. Toilets, faucets, under-sink pipes, and water heaters are common sources of hidden leaks.
What to do:
- Check under vanities and kitchen sinks
- Inspect baseboards and drywall for signs of moisture
- Monitor your water bill for unexplained increases
2. Test Your Water Pressure
Water pressure that’s too high can stress your pipes and fixtures, leading to premature wear or even bursts. Low pressure could signal sediment buildup or a leak.
Ideal range: Between 40–60 PSI.
A pressure gauge (available at local hardware stores) can be used to check.
3. Flush the Water Heater
Over time, sediment from minerals and debris builds up in the bottom of your water heater tank. This reduces heating efficiency and shortens the lifespan of the unit.
Annual task: Drain and flush your tank to remove sediment. This is especially important in areas like Sooke or Metchosin, where harder water can accelerate buildup.
If you have a tankless system, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or ask a pro to descale it. Not sure how? Contact us – we offer water heater maintenance and replacement.
4. Clean and Inspect Perimeter Drains
Victoria’s wet winters bring lush gardens, but also heavy runoff. Your perimeter drain system (also known as a weeping tile system) protects your foundation from water damage, but only if it’s flowing freely.
Annual task: Schedule a perimeter drain cleaning or inspection before the rainy season.
Tree roots, sediment, and collapsed pipes are common culprits. A camera inspection is often the best way to catch issues early.
5. Inspect Shut-Off Valves
Your shut-off valves are essential for emergencies or repairs. If they’re stuck or leaking, they may not function when you need them most.
What to check:
- Main water shut-off valve (often near the water meter or where the main line enters the home)
- Individual shut-offs under sinks and toilets
- Outdoor hose bibs before and after the winter season
Cycle them off and on to ensure they’re working. If they’re corroded or stuck, replacement may be needed.
6. Watch for Slow Drains
Slow-moving drains are often the early warning sign of a clog forming in your pipes. Common causes include hair, grease, soap scum, or tree roots further down the line.
What to do:
- Use a safe, enzyme-based cleaner monthly
- Avoid chemical drain cleaners that can damage pipes
- Keep hair and food catchers in place on high-use drains
If slow drains persist, professional drain cleaning or a camera inspection may be needed to get to the root of the issue.
Seasonal Plumbing Tips
Spring
- Flush your water heater
- Test outdoor hose bibs for winter damage
- Check basement and crawlspaces for signs of moisture
- Book a drain camera inspection if needed
Summer
- Monitor for increased water usage during outdoor watering
- Check for signs of leaks when water use is high
- Turn off main water supply if leaving on vacation
Fall
- Disconnect and drain hoses
- Shut off and winterize outdoor taps
- Schedule perimeter drain maintenance before the rainy season
Winter
- Insulate exposed pipes in crawlspaces and exterior walls
- Keep garage doors closed to help protect plumbing lines
- Open cabinet doors under sinks during cold snaps to circulate warm air
Bonus: Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection
While homeowners can do much of this checklist on their own, having a licensed professional inspect your plumbing system once a year ensures nothing gets missed. At Homewise Plumbing, our inspections include:
- Leak detection
- Water pressure testing
- Hot water system checks
- Camera inspections for drains and sewer lines
This is especially valuable in older homes across Oak Bay, Fernwood, Rockland, and James Bay, where aging pipes are more likely to fail.
Final Thoughts
Staying on top of plumbing maintenance at the start of the year can save you stress, water damage, and expensive repairs down the road. Wherever you are, your plumbing system deserves regular care. Contact the trusted Plumbers in Victoria BC today. We’re here to solve your plumbing problems for good.
Services
Related Links
For more helpful plumbing tips, check out these related articles: