The best plumbing problem is the one that never happens. A little preventive maintenance goes a long way toward avoiding expensive emergency repairs. Davis Plumbing and Heating Inc. recommends that Riverside County homeowners in Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee, Perris, and surrounding areas run through this simple annual checklist to keep their plumbing in top shape.

Every Month

  • Check under all sinks for leaks — Open cabinet doors and feel the pipes and the cabinet floor for any moisture or drips.
  • Pour a cup of water down floor drains — Infrequently used floor drains (laundry room, garage) can have their P-trap dry out, allowing sewer gas into your home. Pouring water down them monthly keeps the trap full.
  • Run water in infrequently used sinks and toilets — Guest bathroom fixtures can develop dried seals and slow drains if not used regularly.

Every 3 Months

  • Replace your HVAC filter — A clean filter protects your air conditioner and furnace and improves indoor air quality. Use MERV 8-11 rated filters.
  • Test your pressure relief valve on the water heater — Lift the test lever briefly to ensure it releases water and springs back properly. If it sticks or leaks, it’s time for replacement.
  • Check your water softener salt level — Keep the brine tank at least half-full of salt pellets for proper softening.

Every 6 Months

  • Flush your water heater — Attach a hose and drain 2-3 gallons from the bottom of your tank to remove sediment buildup. In Riverside County’s hard water areas, this is especially important.
  • Inspect all visible pipes for corrosion or leaks — Check under sinks, in the garage, and at the water heater for signs of rust, green staining (copper corrosion), or moisture.
  • Test all toilet flappers for leaks — Add food coloring to the tank and wait 15 minutes without flushing. Color in the bowl means a leaking flapper.

Annually

  • Schedule water heater professional inspection — Have a plumber inspect the anode rod (replace every 3-5 years), check the burner (gas), or heating elements (electric), and verify the pressure relief valve.
  • Get an AC/furnace tune-up — Before summer and before winter, have your HVAC system professionally serviced for peak efficiency.
  • Consider a slab leak pressure test — For homes over 20 years old in Riverside County, an annual or biannual slab leak check is a smart investment.
  • Clean showerheads and faucet aerators — Soak in vinegar overnight to dissolve mineral buildup from hard water.

Schedule Your Annual Plumbing Check-Up with Davis Plumbing

Davis Plumbing and Heating offers comprehensive home plumbing inspections for Riverside County homeowners. We check all visible plumbing, test water pressure, inspect the water heater, and identify any potential issues before they become expensive emergencies.

Call (951) 657-0393 to schedule your annual plumbing check-up or book online.