Time for a Plumbing Maintenance Check

During the summertime in Nashville, we use a lot of water. Working or playing outside makes us want to shower more often, and creates more laundry. Lawns and gardens need regular watering. Pets need more fresh water during the summer months. So, summertime is a great time to do a plumbing maintenance check.

Because many plumbing problems sneak up on you, catching them early may stop costly repairs or damage to your home. A very small leak in a pipe could cause moisture to collect in your walls or floorboards and before you know it, your floorboards are rotting, or you have mold behind your sheet rock.

DIY Advice to Prevent Major Summer Plumbing Repairs

1. Examine all exposed pipes

Look under every sink and clean out your cabinet if necessary to make sure there are no leaky pipes. If you have an unfinished basement, you will also be able to examine pipes below your floor. Some homes have an access panel to the pipes leading to your shower or bathtub. Check ceilings for water spots that could indicate a leaky pipe (or a leaky roof). Take care of any small leaks before they turn into big problems.

2. Examine copper or brass fittings for corrosion

Metal will corrode if it is wet, so corrosion could be the result of a slow leak.

3. Check the base of your toilets

If there is moisture there, you will need to call a licensed plumber to check the toilet for leaks.

4. Turn on all faucets and check the flow

Low water pressure may be a problem with the municipal water supply (like a water main break), but if you notice low water pressure in only  one or two faucets, you may have a problem with the pipes leading to that faucet.

5. Check your drains

Fill all sinks and tubs with an inch or two of water and see how long it takes to drain out. Slow drains could indicate a clog that needs to be tended to. Sometimes all you need is a plunger to clean a slow drain, but other times, you may need professional help.

We will be happy to come out and give your home an inspection to make sure that your home is safe and secure from all plumbing problems. We serve Old Hickory, Mount Juliet, Donelson Hermitage, Madison, and the Greater Nashville area.

Kevin Sipes, Master Plumber

Fix It All Plumbing

(615) 568-5051