Plumbing Maintenance Checklist (14 Tasks)
Water damage is the second most common homeowner insurance claim, and most of it is preventable with routine maintenance. Plumbing problems rarely announce themselves — they build up silently until a pipe bursts, a water heater fails, or a slow leak rots out your subfloor. This 14-task checklist is a DIY, step-by-step guide to doing that maintenance yourself: what to check, why it matters, and how long each task takes. If you'd rather hire it out, or want to know what a professional visit should cost, see our plumbing maintenance cost guide instead — this page is the how, that one is the how much.
Plumbing
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Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I flush my water heater?
Flush your water heater once a year to remove sediment buildup. If you have hard water (most of the US), consider flushing every 6 months. New water heaters may need flushing during the first few years as the tank settles. A heavily sediment-laden heater that has never been flushed can be damaged by sudden flushing — consult a plumber first.
What are the early signs of a plumbing leak?
Early signs include: water stains or discoloration on ceilings or walls, mold or mildew smell without visible moisture, unusually high water bills, soft or buckling areas in floors near plumbing fixtures, and the sound of running water when all fixtures are off. Check your water meter: turn off all water in the house and see if the meter is still moving — if it is, you have a leak.
How long do supply lines last?
Plastic (PVC) supply lines should be replaced every 5–7 years — they can fail catastrophically without warning. Braided stainless steel lines last 10–15 years. Copper supply lines last 50+ years under normal conditions. The highest-risk lines are washing machine hoses, refrigerator ice maker lines, and toilet fill lines, which are under constant pressure.
Should I get a whole-house water shut-off valve?
Automatic water shut-off systems (Moen Flo, Phyn, Flo by Moen) can detect abnormal flow patterns indicating a leak and automatically shut off the main water supply. These systems cost $500–$700 installed and can prevent catastrophic water damage from burst pipes or supply line failures. Many homeowner insurance companies offer discounts of 5–12% for homes equipped with them.