The Annual Plumbing Maintenance Checklist Every Homeowner Needs

A few hours of preventive maintenance each year can save you thousands in emergency repairs. Here's the complete homeowner checklist our team recommends.

Most plumbing failures aren't sudden — they build up slowly over time. Regular maintenance catches small problems before they become expensive emergencies. Here's the checklist we give to every homeowner in Middle Tennessee.

Monthly Checks (5 minutes)

Run water in unused sinks, tubs, and showers to prevent drain trap evaporation

Check under kitchen and bathroom sinks for moisture or slow drips

Test that all shutoff valves turn freely (under sinks, behind toilets)

Check toilet flappers — drop food coloring in the tank; if color appears in the bowl, the flapper needs replacement

Quarterly Checks

Clean aerators on all faucets (unscrew tip, rinse out mineral buildup)

Test your water heater's pressure relief valve (lift the lever briefly — you should see/hear water release)

Flush your water heater to remove sediment (or have a plumber do it)

Check washing machine hoses for cracks or bulging

Clean your garbage disposal with ice cubes and salt, then citrus peels for freshness

Annual Checks

Inspect all caulking and grout in showers and tubs

Check hose bibs (outdoor faucets) for drips or freeze damage

Have your water heater professionally inspected if it's 7+ years old

Check your main water shutoff valve — make sure you know where it is and that it works

If you have a sump pump, test it by pouring water into the pit

Look for soft spots in flooring near toilets and tubs (sign of hidden leaks)

Before Winter

Disconnect and drain garden hoses

Shut off and drain irrigation systems

Insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces, attics, and garages

When to Call a Plumber

If you find any of these during your checks: visible corrosion, persistent slow drains, water discoloration, low pressure on hot water only, or moisture where there shouldn't be any.

Print this checklist and tape it inside a cabinet door. Your future self will thank you.

#Maintenance#Checklist#Prevention#Home Tips

Back to All Articles