How Do You Check Plumbing in a New House?

Buying a new house is a huge investment, and you want to make sure everything is in tip-top shape before you move in. That includes checking the plumbing system. A thorough plumbing inspection is crucial to ensure your home is functioning correctly and to prevent costly repairs in the future. In this article, we will guide you through the plumbing inspection process, from understanding the different types of plumbing in your home to checking for obstructions in your drain line. Read on to find out how to check the plumbing in a new house and why it’s best to hire a professional.

Understand the Types of Plumbing in Your Home

Before you start inspecting your plumbing system, you need to know the type of plumbing in your home. There are two types of plumbing systems: water supply and drainage. The water supply system brings fresh water into your home through a series of pipes, while the drainage system removes wastewater through a system of sewer pipes. Understanding these systems will help you identify potential problems.

Apply Pressure Tests to Identify Leaks

Checking for leaks is important in plumbing maintenance. One way to do this is by conducting a pressure test. Turn off all the water in your home, including faucets and appliances that use water, and find your water meter. Record the reading and wait for an hour or two without using any water in your home. Check the meter again, and if the reading has changed, it means you have a leak somewhere in your plumbing system.

Inspect Underneath the Sinks and Other Fixtures

Underneath your sinks, tubs, and other fixtures, you’ll find the drain pipes, water supply lines, valves, and traps. Inspect them closely, looking for any signs of damage, corrosion, or leaks. Check the valves to make sure they’re easily accessible and functioning correctly.

Use a Water Pressure Gauge to Measure Flow Rates

Low pressure can indicate several problems, from obstructions in the line to leaks. A water pressure gauge can measure the flow rate, and you can compare your results with the recommended rates for your home area. If the pressure is too low or too high, you need to call a plumber to check the system.

Inspect the Drain Line for any Blockages

Clogs can cause backups and flooding, and they usually happen in the drain line. You can check the drain line by flushing all toilets simultaneously and running all the faucets concurrently for a few minutes. If you notice water draining slowly or not at all, you may have an obstruction that needs to be addressed.

Run a Hot Water Test

Having access to hot water is crucial for various daily tasks, including taking a shower, cleaning dishes, and doing laundry. Before you move into your new home, run a hot water test to ensure all your faucets are working correctly. Turn on all faucets, including the shower, and let them run for a few minutes to check the hot water flow.

Why It’s Best to Hire a Professional

While these tips can help you identify some potential plumbing issues in your home, it’s always best to hire a professional plumber to perform a thorough inspection. A professional plumber has the expertise and tools needed to identify and address any plumbing issues, preventing costly and time-consuming repairs down the line.

Drip Drip Drip

Inspecting the plumbing in a new house is crucial to ensure a sound investment and a safe living environment. Understanding the types of plumbing in your home, pressure testing to identify leaks, inspecting underneath sinks and other fixtures, checking for obstructions in the drain line, using a water pressure gauge to measure flow rates, running a hot water test, and hiring a professional plumber are all important steps in the plumbing inspection process. Remember, investing in a professional inspection now can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run.

Stack Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electric – Cleveland, Ohio

If you’re looking for professional plumbing inspection services, look no further than Stack Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electric. Our experienced team of certified technicians are equipped with the latest tools and technologies to quickly identify any potential problems in your plumbing system. We offer thorough inspections that can help prevent costly repairs down the line. Contact us today on our website or by calling (440) 937-9134 to get started!