If you’re the hands-on type and want to get your plumbing guest-ready on your own, here’s a comprehensive holiday checklist for you. From water pressure checks to sink and toilet maintenance, these steps will help you prep for high-traffic days. But remember — at Mac Wilson Plumbing, we’re offering a free home inspection valued at $179 to cover all of this for you, giving you peace of mind and saving you time.
Here’s what to focus on if you want to tackle it yourself:
1. Check Your Water Meter and Main Shutoff Valve
- Water Meter: Make sure your water meter isn’t moving when all water is off, as this could indicate a hidden leak. If it’s moving, you may need a plumber to identify and fix it.
- Shutoff Valve: Find and test your main shutoff valve to ensure it works properly. A sticky or jammed valve can be a real headache if you need to cut the water supply quickly.
2. Inspect Pipes and Water Pressure
- Pipes: Look over visible pipes in your basement or utility areas. Rust, corrosion, or leaking joints need attention. For pipes in colder areas, add insulation to prevent freezing.
- Water Pressure: Use a pressure gauge to check your home’s water pressure. Ideal pressure is between 40-80 psi. If it’s too high or low, a pressure regulator might need adjusting or replacing.
3. Clean Faucets and Showerheads
- Aerators and Showerheads: Mineral deposits can reduce water flow. Unscrew and clean each faucet’s aerator and showerhead, or soak them in vinegar overnight to dissolve any buildup.
4. Test Drains and Garbage Disposal
- Kitchen and Bathroom Drains: Pour water down each drain to see if it flows smoothly. Slow drainage may mean a clog is forming — you can try a natural solution with baking soda and vinegar.
- Garbage Disposal: Run your garbage disposal, listening for unusual noises or any signs it’s struggling. If it doesn’t operate smoothly, it might need cleaning or maintenance. To prevent clogs and extend its lifespan, scrape leftovers into the trash can, not your garbage disposal.
5. Inspect Toilets
- Flush Mechanism: Each toilet should flush smoothly without constant running. Check the flapper, tank fill, and other mechanisms.
- Leak Test: Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank. Wait 30 minutes and check the bowl for color — if you see any, you have a leak.
6. Check the Water Heater
- Temperature Setting: The recommended temperature is around 120°F to avoid scalding and save on energy costs.
- Signs of Wear: Look for any leaks or rust, and listen for odd sounds, which could mean sediment has built up inside the tank.
7. Test the Sump Pump (If You Have One)
- Operation: Pour water into the pit to see if the pump kicks on. Check the discharge pipe for leaks, and if your pump has a battery backup, ensure it’s in good shape.
8. Ventilation and Drains
- Vents: Check any plumbing vents on your roof or in your attic. These should be free of blockages to help with odor control and drainage flow.
Completing this checklist can help prevent plumbing issues and keep your home’s water systems running smoothly through the holidays. But, as you can see, it’s quite a bit to handle! If you’d rather leave it to the professionals, Mac Wilson Plumbing is here to help. Let us take this off your plate with a thorough, free inspection — because the holidays are about family, not faucet troubles.
