Plumbing
Water heaters, pipes, fixtures
How-To Guides16
Check for leaks under sinks
Perform a visual and tactile inspection of the drain pipes, P-trap, and supply lines under bathroom and kitchen sinks to catch leaks before they cause damage.
beginner
Check sump pump backup battery
Check your backup sump pump battery to ensure protection during power outages.
beginner
Check toilet components
Test for silent toilet leaks that waste water and money
beginner
Check water heater anode rod
Check the anode rod that protects your water heater tank from corrosion.
intermediate
Clean faucet aerators
Remove and clean the aerator at the tip of your faucet to restore water pressure and flow reduced by mineral buildup.
beginner
Clean garbage disposal
Clean and freshen your garbage disposal to eliminate odors and buildup
beginner
Clean showerhead
Remove mineral deposits and limescale from your showerhead to restore full water pressure and even spray pattern.
beginner
Descale tankless water heater
Flush mineral buildup from your tankless water heater to maintain efficiency and prevent damage.
intermediate
Drain outdoor faucets
Shut off water supply to exterior faucets, drain the pipes, and protect the spigots from freezing temperatures to prevent burst pipes.
beginner
Flush water heater
Drain and flush your water heater tank to remove sediment buildup that accumulates over time from minerals in your water supply.
intermediate
Inspect Sump Discharge Line
Check that your sump pump's discharge line is clear of clogs, draining far from your foundation, and protected against winter freezing.
beginner
Inspect Water Supply Lines
Check the flexible supply lines connecting your toilets, sinks, dishwasher, and washing machine for signs of wear, bulging, or corrosion before they burst.
beginner
Test sump pump
Test your sump pump to ensure it will protect your basement from flooding
beginner
Test water heater TPR valve
Test the T&P (temperature and pressure) relief valve to ensure this critical safety device works
intermediate
Test Water Shutoff Valves
Locate and exercise your home's water shut-off valves so you can stop water quickly during emergencies and so valves don't seize from disuse.
beginner
Water Heater Maintenance: The Complete Guide
Your water heater works hard every day, heating water for showers, dishes, and laundry. A little annual maintenance extends its life by years, improves efficiency, and prevents the catastrophic failure that floods basements.
intermediate