What Should Be on My Home Plumbing Maintenance Checklist?

For many homeowners, plumbing maintenance only becomes a priority after something goes wrong. By then, what started as a minor issue may have turned into an expensive repair. The truth is, your home’s plumbing system works hard every day—and a little preventive care goes a long way in keeping everything flowing smoothly.

At Absolute Plumbing, we help Flower Mound homeowners avoid emergencies through regular plumbing maintenance. With the right checklist, you can catch small problems early, improve water efficiency, and protect your home from unexpected damage. Wondering where to start? This guide outlines the essential tasks that should be on every homeowner’s plumbing maintenance list.

Why Plumbing Maintenance Matters

Your plumbing system may seem simple, but pipes, fixtures, and appliances wear down over time. Leaks, clogs, and corrosion don’t just cause inconvenience—they lead to water damage, higher utility bills, and even structural issues in severe cases.

Routine maintenance prevents these problems and helps you:

• Extend the lifespan of your plumbing system

• Maintain healthy water pressure

• Prevent hidden leaks and water waste

• Reduce the risk of major breakdowns

• Keep your water heater running efficiently

A little time spent maintaining your plumbing can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and water damage.

Your Essential Home Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

1. Inspect for Leaks Regularly

Look under sinks, around toilets, and near visible pipes for any signs of moisture. Leaking water can quietly cause significant damage to walls, floors, and cabinets. Even small drips waste gallons of water over time. If you spot puddles, dampness, or water stains, schedule a professional leak inspection right away.

2. Check Water Pressure

Low or fluctuating water pressure can indicate hidden leaks, mineral buildup, or failing fixtures. Use a water pressure gauge to ensure your home’s pressure stays between 40 and 60 PSI. High pressure stresses pipes and appliances, while low pressure affects shower and sink performance.

3. Clean Drains Preventively

Slow drains are often the first sign of clogs forming. Rather than waiting for a complete blockage, clean your sink, tub, and shower drains regularly using non-corrosive methods. Avoid chemical drain cleaners, which can damage pipes. If you’re dealing with recurring slow drains, professional hydro-jetting may be necessary.

4. Flush Your Water Heater Annually

Sediment builds up in your water heater tank, reducing efficiency and leading to overheating or corrosion. Flushing the tank once a year removes this buildup, extends the unit’s lifespan, and ensures consistent hot water for your home.

5. Test Shut-Off Valves

Make sure your home’s main water shut-off valve and individual fixture valves turn easily and function properly. In the event of a leak, you’ll need to shut off water quickly to prevent damage. If valves are stiff or stuck, have them repaired or replaced.

6. Look for Signs of Corrosion

Rusty spots or greenish-blue stains on pipes signal corrosion that can lead to leaks. If you notice discoloration or flaky buildup, contact a professional plumber for evaluation. Early intervention prevents full pipe failure.

7. Examine Toilet Function

Inspect toilets for signs of leaks, constant running, or weak flushing. Drop a few drops of food coloring in the tank—if the color seeps into the bowl without flushing, your toilet is leaking internally and wasting water.

8. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Protect your pipes from freezing in cold weather by adding insulation to exposed plumbing in basements, attics, and garages. While Texas winters are generally mild, occasional freezes can still burst unprotected pipes.

9. Check Appliance Connections

Inspect washing machine hoses, refrigerator supply lines, and dishwasher connections for cracks, leaks, or wear. Replace damaged hoses to prevent surprise leaks and water damage.

10. Schedule Professional Plumbing Inspections

Even with regular DIY maintenance, many plumbing problems hide where homeowners can’t see them. Having Absolute Plumbing perform a full plumbing inspection annually helps catch hidden leaks, deteriorating pipes, and other issues early.

When to Call Absolute Plumbing

While routine checks are essential, some plumbing problems require professional expertise. If you notice:

• Constantly clogged or slow drains

• Frequent leaks or signs of water damage

• Water pressure changes throughout your home

• Strange noises from pipes or water heater

• Unexplained increases in water bills

…it’s time to call Absolute Plumbing for help. Our licensed plumbers can diagnose and repair issues quickly to keep your system running smoothly.

Protect Your Plumbing Year-Round

Maintaining your plumbing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following this simple checklist and calling in professionals for inspections and repairs, you’ll protect your Flower Mound home from costly plumbing disasters.

At Absolute Plumbing, we specialize in helping local homeowners extend the life of their plumbing systems with expert care and honest advice. Whether you’re handling minor upkeep or facing a larger concern, our team is ready to help.

Need professional plumbing maintenance? Call Absolute Plumbing today at (972) 539-1180 to schedule service and protect your home’s plumbing system for years to come.