“It’s not that common, it doesn’t happen to every guy, and it is a big deal.”
Well, Rachel, that’s exactly how it feels when your plumbing suddenly fails. A burst pipe, a broken water heater, or a backed-up drain issue does happen to a lot of people, and it’s definitely a big deal. No one would want to start their 2025 with these frustrating plumbing issues. Plumbing emergencies can cost thousands in unexpected repairs, damage your home, and ruin your peace of mind.
So, the real question is how to avoid them. Preventative plumbing maintenance can keep your system running smoothly and prevent those last-minute, costly surprises.
According to the EPA, household leaks waste nearly 10,000 gallons of water per year—and fixing minor leaks can save 10% on your water bill. Imagine how much more you could save by taking care of your entire plumbing system before problems get worse.
Here’s how you can start the new year right with these proactive preventative plumbing maintenance tips.
1. Check for Leaks Before They Drain Your Wallet
A small leak today can turn into a major plumbing disaster tomorrow. A dripping faucet may not seem urgent, but did you know that a single leaky faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons of water a year? That’s more than 180 showers’ worth of wasted water! Now, imagine what a hidden pipe leak could do, not just to your water bill but to your home’s foundation, walls, and ceilings.
Ignoring leaks can lead to:
- Mold growth that affects indoor air quality and health
- Rotting wood and structural damage in walls, ceilings, and floors
- High water bills from continuous water loss
- Sudden pipe bursts, leading to expensive emergency repairs
How to Spot a Leak Before It Gets Worse
Leaks often go unnoticed until they cause serious damage. Look for these early warning signs:
- Under sinks and around toilets– Check for moisture, mold, or a musty smell
- Ceilings, floors, and walls– Watch for unexplained stains, bubbling paint, or warping wood
- Dripping sounds– If you hear running water when nothing is on, there could be a leak behind the walls
- Water meter test– Turn off all water sources and check your meter; if it moves, you likely have a hidden leak
- Toilet test– Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank; if the color appears in the bowl without flushing, the flapper valve is leaking
When to Call a Plumber
Immediate action saves money and prevents damage. If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait. Call a plumber from Sweetwater Plumbing for leak detection before a minor issue turns into a major, costly repair. A professional can use tools like infrared cameras and moisture meters to find hidden leaks behind walls or underground.
Fixing leaks now saves hundreds on water bills and prevents thousands in home repair costs.
2. Schedule Professional Drain Cleaning to Prevent Clogs
A clogged drain isn’t just annoying; it can lead to slow drainage, foul odors, pipe corrosion, and even sewage backups. Over time, grease, soap scum, and debris build up inside your pipes, causing blockages that can lead to bigger plumbing disasters.
What NOT to Do:
- Avoid pouring grease down the drain—it solidifies and causes blockages
- Say no to chemical drain cleaners—they corrode pipes over time
- Don’t ignore slow drains—they’re often the first sign of a bigger problem
What to Do Instead:
- Use drain strainers to catch food debris and hair
- Flush your drains monthly with a mix of hot water and vinegar
- Schedule professional drain cleaning at least once a year to prevent buildup
An expert plumber can safely remove grease, soap residue, and debris, keeping your pipes in top shape and preventing costly clogs. A professional drain cleaning service saves you from future headaches.
3. Test Your Water Heater Before Winter Hits Hard
Your water heater works non-stop to give you hot showers, clean dishes, and warm water for laundry. But if it’s not properly maintained, you could be in for cold showers and costly emergency repairs.
Signs You Need Water Heater Repair:
- Water takes too long to heat or fluctuates between hot and cold
- Rusty or smelly water coming from the tap
- Unusual noises like popping or banging inside the tank
- Leaks or moisture buildup around the unit
Preventative Plumbing Maintenance Tips:
- Flush the tank annually to remove sediment buildup that reduces efficiency
- Check the anode rod—it prevents rust and extends the life of your heater
- Set the thermostat to 120°F for safety and energy efficiency
- Call a plumberfor hot water heater repair if you notice leaks or heating issues
However, if you want to achieve the best results possible, professional water heater service is the right choice. DIY preventative plumbing maintenance is important but can also lead to further problems due to a lack of expertise. Professional water heater service prevents cold showers and costly issues in the long run.
4. Inspect Your Pipes Before Cold Weather Hits
A burst pipe is one of the most expensive plumbing disasters—and it’s completely avoidable with preventative plumbing maintenance. Frozen pipes can crack and flood your home, causing thousands in water damage and mold growth.
How to Protect Pipes in Winter:
- Insulate exposed pipes in attics, crawl spaces, and garages
- Let faucets drip slightly in freezing weather to prevent ice buildup
- Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses before temperatures drop
- Keep your thermostat at 55°F or higher when leaving for vacation
If your home has older pipes, a plumber can install heat tape or insulation to further protect them. Professionals offer expert gas pipe repair services to ensure safety. A little preparation now can prevent a huge headache later.
5. Know When to Call an Emergency Plumber
Sometimes, despite the best preventative plumbing maintenance, emergencies happen. Knowing when to call for professional help can save you from even bigger problems.
Call an Emergency Plumber If You Have:
- A burst pipe (immediate flooding risk)
- Sewage backups (health hazard and serious damage)
- No hot water (a sign of a failing water heater)
- Gas leaks (leave the house and call for help ASAP)
Having a trusted emergency plumber on speed dial means you get fast service when things go wrong—instead of scrambling to find someone in the middle of a crisis.
6. Test Your Water Pressure to Prevent Pipe Damage
High water pressure might feel great in the shower, but it can silently damage your plumbing system over time. Excessive pressure strains your water pipes, causing leaks, bursts, and premature wear on fixtures and appliances like water heaters and washing machines.
How to Check Water Pressure:
- Use a pressure gauge– Attach it to an outdoor spigot and turn on the water; the ideal pressure should be between 40-60 psi
- Watch for signs of high pressure– If faucets spray water forcefully when turned on or your pipes make banging noises, the pressure may be too high.
- Check appliance warranties– Many water-using appliances specify a safe pressure range; exceeding it can void warranties.
Fixing High Water Pressure:
If your reading exceeds 80 psi, it’s time to install a pressure regulator. A plumber can also adjust your home’s main water valve to keep pressure at a safe level, protecting pipes and appliances from costly damage.
7. Flush Your Water Heater for Better Efficiency
Over time, sediment buildup in your water heater reduces efficiency, causing higher energy bills and lukewarm showers. If left unchecked, it can damage the heating element, shorten the lifespan of your unit, and even cause it to overheat.
How to Maintain Your Water Heater:
- Drain and flush the tank – Remove sediment at least once a year to improve performance
- Check the anode rod – This metal rod prevents rust inside the tank and should be replaced every few years
- Inspect for leaks – Look for water pooling around the base or corrosion on the tank
- Listen for noises – Rumbling or popping sounds mean sediment buildup is affecting efficiency
When to Call a Plumber:
If your water heater takes longer to heat water, produces rusty or cloudy water, or makes strange noises, schedule a water heater repair to prevent costly replacements. Regular maintenance extends the unit’s lifespan and ensures you always have hot water when you need it.
Schedule Your Preventive Plumbing Maintenance with Sweetwater Plumbing Today!
At Sweetwater Plumbing, we offer the highest standard of meticulous preventive plumbing maintenance. Our cost-effective services save you from costly and frustrating issues in the long run. Our expert plumbers offer services in Ontario, Chino, Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Pomona, and Claremont, CA, and the surrounding areas. So, call us today at 909-312-4516 or schedule an appointment online!
