A plumbing inspection assesses the state of your home’s plumbing system. A professional inspector will conduct it to ensure that your plumbing system is up to code and functioning properly.
While most people dread inspections because it generally means something is wrong, a plumbing inspection does not have to be a stressful experience. It can be a breeze if you take the time to prepare. These are a few tips on how to prepare for a plumbing inspection.
Know What the Inspector Will Be Looking For
The first step in preparing for a plumbing inspection is understanding what the inspector will look for in the house. Generally speaking, inspectors will look at three main things: water pressure, leaks, and proper installation of fixtures and appliances.
Knowing what the inspector will be looking at, you can take the necessary steps to ensure everything is in order before they arrive. For example, if you know the inspector will check leaks, you can go around your house and address any small leaks that you may have.
This extra step will save you from dealing with issues during the inspection and prevent larger problems down the road.
Gather All Relevant Documentation
Another important step in preparing for a plumbing inspection is gathering all relevant documentation. This documentation includes appliance manuals, warranties, previous inspection reports, and receipts for any work on your plumbing system.
This documentation will make the inspection process smoother and give you peace of mind knowing everything is in order. It is also worth noting that some jurisdictions require certain documentation for an inspection, so check with your local authorities beforehand.
Clean Up Your Workspace
Another tip to keep in mind when preparing for a plumbing inspection is to clean up your workspace. Cleaning means taking care of any cluttered areas around pipes or appliances. This makes it easier for the inspector to do their job and grants you peace of mind knowing that everything is tidy.
What Areas Will an Inspector Check?
Now that you know how to prepare for a plumbing inspection, you might wonder what areas the inspector will check. Every review will vary, but generally, inspectors will check the following areas.
Water Pressure
The inspector will use a water pressure gauge to test the water pressure in your home. They will look for a reading of between 40 and 60 psi. If the reading is lower than that, it could mean there are leaks in your system.
Leaks
As part of the inspection, the inspector will check for any leaks throughout your home. This check includes looking under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances. You’ll want to ensure you tackle any small leaks before the inspection.
Fixtures and Appliances
The inspector will also check to ensure that you installed all fixtures and appliances properly and that they are up to code. These appliances include toilets, showers, tubs, dishwashers, and washing machines. Check your manuals and warranties to ensure everything is in order before the inspection.
Tips for Maintaining a Good Plumbing System
Once the inspection ends, you’ll want to take steps to maintain a good plumbing system. These are a few tips to help you do that.
Inspect Your Pipes Regularly
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your plumbing system is to inspect your pipes regularly. This inspection means looking closely at all the exposed pipes in your home (in the basement, in the crawl space, and beyond) and ensuring they are in good condition.
Look for any signs of leaks, cracks, or other damage. If you find any damage, repair it as soon as possible. Even unassuming cracks can cause big problems down the line. To prevent cracks in the first place, insulate your pipes correctly and protect them from significant weather changes like freezes throughout the year.
Clean Your Drains Often
Your drains are another crucial part of your plumbing system that you must properly maintain. Over time, hair, soap scum, and other debris can clog your drains. This clog can lead to water backup and overflows—not to mention some seriously unpleasant odors.
To avoid this problem, make sure to clean your drains regularly. You can use a drain snake or a plunger to remove any accumulated build-up in your drains. Additionally, pouring hot water down your drain once a week can help prevent clogs from forming in the first place.
Check Your Water Heater
Your water heater is one of the most vital appliances in your home, so it’s important to maintain it. Every six months or so, flush out your water heater to remove any accumulated sediment.
Additionally, check the temperature of your water heater and make sure that it is set no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. By following these simple tips, you can prolong the life of your water heater and prevent costly repairs or replacements down the line.
Don’t Ignore Small Problems
It’s easy to ignore small problems in your plumbing system. However, it’s important to remember that even seemingly insignificant problems can turn into big, expensive ones if you choose not to address them.
If you notice a slow drain or a tiny leak, don’t wait to repair it. The sooner you take care of the problem, the less likely it is to turn into a larger one.
You should also keep an eye out for changes in your plumbing system. Don’t hesitate to call our team of Northern California plumbers for help if something doesn’t seem right. Catching problems early can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run.
A plumbing inspection does not have to be a stressful experience if you take the time to prepare for it ahead of time. By knowing how to prepare for a plumbing inspection, you can rest assured that everything will go smoothly on the day of the check.
Once an inspection is over, Fletcher’s Plumbing & Contracting can help you repair or perform maintenance if needed. Our plumbing contractors in California will ensure that your home is up to code and functioning properly. Contact us today for a free consultation!
