January is the perfect time to take stock of your home’s plumbing and HVAC systems before the spring busy season begins. Davis Plumbing and Heating Inc. encourages Riverside County homeowners to start 2026 with a simple home systems check — catching small problems now prevents expensive emergencies later.

January Plumbing Checklist

Water Heater

  • Check the age (look at serial number — most brands encode manufacture year in the first few digits)
  • Listen for rumbling, popping, or banging sounds — indicating sediment buildup
  • Check for any moisture around the base or connections
  • If over 10 years old, schedule an inspection and anode rod check

Drains

  • Test the flow rate at all bathroom and kitchen drains
  • If any drain is slower than normal, schedule cleaning before it becomes a complete blockage
  • Check main sewer line — when was the last time it was cleaned? If over 3 years, schedule service

Toilets

  • Do the food coloring test in every toilet (add drops to tank; color in bowl after 15 min = leaking flapper)
  • Check for wobbling or rocking at the base (indicates failed wax ring)
  • Verify toilet fills within 60-90 seconds of flushing and doesn’t run continuously

Faucets and Fixtures

  • Check all faucets for drips — even a slow drip wastes thousands of gallons per year
  • Clean aerators in all bathroom and kitchen faucets (unscrew and soak in vinegar overnight)
  • Test all shutoff valves under sinks and at toilets to confirm they turn freely

Visible Pipes

  • Check under sinks, in the garage, and at the water heater for any moisture, corrosion, or green staining
  • Check water pressure (should be 45-80 PSI — test at outdoor hose bib)

January HVAC Checklist

  • Replace your HVAC filter (start the year with a fresh filter)
  • Test your furnace or heat pump — make sure it’s heating properly before a cold snap
  • Check all HVAC vents are open and unobstructed
  • Schedule a spring AC tune-up now (before the April/May rush)

Start the Year Right with Davis Plumbing

Let Davis Plumbing and Heating help you start 2026 with a well-maintained home. We offer plumbing inspections and HVAC tune-ups throughout Riverside County — Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee, Perris, Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, San Jacinto, Sun City, and beyond.

Call (951) 657-0393 to schedule your January checkup or book online. Happy New Year from Davis Plumbing!