The Homeowner’s Guide to Preventative Plumbing Maintenance

🏡 Why Preventative Plumbing Maintenance Matters

Ever had a flooded basement or a sudden leak that ruined your plans? Emergency plumbing disasters often strike when you least expect them. The good news: most big problems start as small, fixable issues. By staying on top of simple preventative maintenance, you can avoid headaches, protect your home, and save money.

At Croteau Plumbing, we know that regular care keeps your pipes, fixtures, and drains running smoothly. Here’s your easy, expert-backed guide to the most important steps every homeowner should take.

🚨 What Can Go Wrong Without Maintenance?

• Burst pipes during winter freezes
• Clogged drains and overflowing sinks
• Toilet backups and bathroom floods
• Hidden leaks causing water damage and mold
• Loss of hot water from neglected water heaters
• Dangerous gas leaks or carbon monoxide risks

Regular checks and small fixes can prevent most of these issues. If you do need help fast, Croteau Plumbing is ready for any emergency plumbing situation—day or night.

🛠️ Essential Plumbing Maintenance Tasks

Let’s break down the tasks you can do to keep your plumbing in top shape. Even if you’re not a DIY expert, these simple steps can make a big difference.

1. Inspect for Leaks and Drips

• Look under sinks, behind toilets, and around fixtures.
• Check for water stains, puddles, or musty smells.
• Don’t ignore small drips—these can waste water and lead to bigger issues!
• Schedule professional Leak Detection with Croteau Plumbing if you suspect hidden leaks.

2. Clean Faucet Aerators

• Unscrew aerators on faucets and rinse out debris every few months.
• This keeps water flowing freely and extends fixture life.

3. Test Shutoff Valves

• Locate your main water shutoff and test it twice a year.
• Try turning off supply valves under sinks and toilets.
• Sticky or stuck valves could be a problem during emergencies.

4. Check Water Pressure

• High or low water pressure causes leaks, pipe damage, and appliance issues.
• Use an inexpensive pressure gauge or ask Croteau Plumbing for a professional assessment.
• Address Water Pressure Issues promptly to avoid costly repairs.

5. Flush Drains Regularly

• Pour hot water down kitchen and bathroom drains once a week.
• Avoid harsh chemicals—try baking soda and vinegar for regular cleaning.
• For stubborn clogs, our Drain Cleaning and Unclogging Toilets services are just a call away!

6. Test Your Sump Pump

• Pour water into the pit to make sure it pumps away properly.
• Have your Sump Pump Repair checked annually, especially before rainy seasons.

🍂 Seasonal Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

Staying ahead of the seasons keeps your plumbing safe all year! Follow these simple tips for every time of year:

Spring 🌷

• Inspect for winter damage (cracked pipes, leaks, broken valves)
• Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water backup
• Schedule Backflow Testing to ensure clean water supply

Summer ☀️

• Check hose bibs and outdoor faucets for leaks
• Service your Garbage Disposal Repair and kitchen plumbing before BBQs
• Inspect your water heater for sediment buildup

Fall 🍁

• Drain and shut off outdoor faucets to avoid freezing
• Insulate exposed pipes in the basement, garage, and crawl spaces
• Test your sump pump before heavy autumn rains

Winter ❄️

• Let faucets drip during freezing nights to prevent frozen pipes
• Know where your main water shutoff is located in case of emergency
• Schedule Boiler Repair, Water Heater Repair, and Gas Safety Checks before cold weather

💧 Proactive Steps to Prevent Plumbing Emergencies

It only takes a few minutes each month to check your home’s plumbing. Here are extra tips:

• Listen for strange sounds (gurgling, banging, or hissing)
• Look for rust, corrosion, or mineral buildup on pipes and fixtures
• Feel around pipes for moisture or cold spots during winter
• Smell for sewer odors or gas smells (call Croteau Plumbing right away if you notice these!)

Regular Toilet Repair, Sink Repair, and Fixture Installation can keep your bathrooms and kitchens fresh and functional. Don’t forget about Repiping older homes and Pipe Repair if you notice constant leaks.

🏆 Why Choose Croteau Plumbing for Preventative Care?

• Decades of trusted, local experience
• Licensed and insured professionals
• 24/7 emergency plumbing near you
• Up-to-date with the latest Water Filtration Systems and green solutions
• Full range of services: from Sewer Line Repair to Gas Line Installation
• Friendly, respectful, and reliable service—every visit!

Tip: Even the most careful homeowners need a pro sometimes. Set up an annual inspection with Croteau Plumbing and relax knowing your home is safe from leaks, clogs, and water damage.

📝 Your Annual Professional Plumbing Inspection

Croteau Plumbing offers thorough inspections that cover:

• Leak Detection (even inside walls!)
• Backflow Prevention and testing
• Full Sewer Line Inspection and Sewer Line Installation expertise
• Water Heater Installation and checks for efficiency
• Testing water pressure and recommending fixes
• Safety checks for all gas appliances and lines

We’ll catch small problems before they turn into major emergencies—saving you time, money, and stress.

🌟 Homeowner Plumbing Maintenance Tips

• Don’t flush wipes, grease, or hygiene products! Even “flushable” wipes can block pipes.
• Use drain strainers in sinks, showers, and tubs.
• Know where your main water and gas shutoffs are located.
• Keep our number handy for fast help with emergency plumbing near you.

✅ Final Thoughts: Small Steps, Big Savings

Preventative maintenance is the key to plumbing peace of mind. Taking care of your pipes today means fewer emergencies tomorrow.

Whenever you need help—routine maintenance, a sudden leak, or a major project—Croteau Plumbing is your reliable partner. We’re here with the friendly expertise and fast response you deserve.

📞 Take Action—Call Croteau Plumbing Today!

Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a big disaster! Schedule your inspection, repair, or drain cleaning with the team you can trust.

Call now for reliable plumbing help near you!
Or reach us at  888-788-9978 

Trust Croteau Plumbing for all your home’s plumbing needs—keeping your family safe and your water flowing, year-round!