Pluming issues - ALL SEASON HOME INSPECTIONS, Inc.

Plumbing Issues

Plumbing problems usually revolve around two things: clogs and leaks. It pays to be familiar with your plumbing system so you can minimize the damage caused by plumbing problems as well as fix minor problems on your own.

The most important thing you can do is find out where the main water shutoff valve is and how to turn it off. The inspectors at All Season Home Inspections will locate and identify to you the main shut off providing it is accessible. They are commonly found in your basement or crawlspace. If you can not find it or don’t know how to turn it off, contact your utility company and have them show you. If any tools are necessary to turn off your water, keep them handy. Being able to shut your water off at the main valve can be vital to reducing damage to your home in case of an emergency.

You should also check each plumbing appliance (sinks, toilets, etc.) for their own shutoff valves and verify they work. Operating the valves periodically will insure their operation when you need them. If the valves fail to turn off water to the appliance, you should have them fixed by a professional plumber. These valves come in handy when the need arises to repair individual appliances. If an appliance has no valves, you will need to shut off your water at the main valve to repair it.

When it comes to clogs and slow drains, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In the tub or shower an inexpensive hair trap or screen will prevent the hair and soap scum from going down the drain. In the kitchen, don’t pour cooking grease down your drain. It will harden and coat your pipes with a sticky scum that will catch other particles and eventually clog the pipe. Instead, keep it in a coffee can or milk container and dispose of it with your garbage once it’s cooled.

If you do encounter a clog, don’t panic. Clogs and slow drains most commonly occur in areas that can be easily cleared on your own without the help of a pro (if more than one drain or toilet is affected, you will need to contact a plumber). First, try a plunger, they are inexpensive and can be used over and over again, but remember that you must never use a plunger with chemical drain cleaners.

Some plumbing repair projects don’t require the help of a professional. Replacing faucets, sinks, and toilets are all easily accomplished by the do-it-yourselfer if you have the right tools and information. Only you know your capabilities so when in doubt call a licensed and experienced plumber.

We perform a thorough visual inspection of your plumbing system. We have the expertise to detect problems invisible to the untrained eye to help you head off problems before they start. We will also provide you with a full report summarizing our findings and recommended course of action if necessary.

Many times the discovery of even a small plumbing problem will offset the cost of the home inspection. Small problems are not hard to handle, but a lot of small problems cause headaches. Our inspectors will give you the education and peace of mind you need before moving into your dream home.