Keeping your home’s plumbing in top shape is not just about convenience—it’s about saving water, preventing damage, and maintaining a healthy living environment. For residents of University Place, WA, understanding how to maintain your plumbing system year-round is crucial, especially with seasonal changes and growing water conservation concerns.
According to the EPA’s Home Water Audit, homeowners can reduce water waste by as much as 10% annually just by addressing leaks and using water-efficient fixtures. At Einstein Pros – University Place Plumbing, we follow EPA-recommended practices to help our customers maintain efficiency, safety, and long-term cost savings.
Here’s your annual plumbing maintenance checklist, guided by EPA standards and best practices, tailored for University Place homeowners.
1. Perform a Whole-Home Leak Check
Leaks are the silent killer of plumbing systems. The EPA estimates that the average household can waste nearly 10,000 gallons of water annually due to leaks.
What to check:
- Dripping faucets
- Running toilets
- Leaky showerheads
- Unexplained spikes in your water bill
How to check:
- Shut off all water inside and outside your home.
- Observe your water meter. If it’s still moving, you likely have a hidden leak.
Fixing leaks promptly not only saves money but also prevents long-term water damage. For assistance with leak detection, schedule a plumbing inspection with our certified professionals in University Place.
2. Inspect Faucets, Toilets, and Fixtures
Your fixtures are high-use points of your plumbing system. Over time, parts degrade, especially in older homes.
Maintenance tips:
- Replace aerators and washers annually
- Check toilet flappers and seals
- Ensure your toilets are EPA WaterSense-certified
WaterSense toilets and fixtures use 20% less water than standard models without compromising performance. Learn more from the EPA’s WaterSense Product Guide.
3. Flush and Inspect Water Heater
Your water heater should be flushed once per year to remove sediment buildup, which affects efficiency and lifespan.
Maintenance checklist:
- Drain a few gallons from the tank to clear debris
- Check the temperature setting (120°F is optimal)
- Inspect the anode rod for corrosion
- Look for leaks or rust on tank exterior
If your water heater is over 10 years old or inefficient, it may be time to consider a replacement. Einstein Pros offers water heater services tailored to University Place homes.
4. Clean Drains and Check for Blockages
Blocked or slow drains are often caused by soap scum, grease, or debris accumulation. Avoid chemical drain cleaners, which can damage pipes and harm the environment.
Instead:
- Use a drain snake or natural enzymes
- Install drain strainers
- Schedule professional drain cleaning yearly
Consistent maintenance reduces the risk of backups and extends the life of your plumbing infrastructure.
5. Inspect Outdoor Plumbing and Irrigation
Spring and summer are the best times to check your outdoor systems.
EPA tip: Outdoor water use can account for up to 30% of household water usage.
Tasks to complete:
- Check hose bibs for leaks or cracks
- Inspect sprinkler systems for misdirected or broken heads
- Replace timers with EPA WaterSense-labeled irrigation controllers
Outdoor leaks are harder to detect, but they can waste thousands of gallons. You can read more about efficient irrigation systems on the EPA’s Irrigation Guide.
6. Test Water Pressure
High water pressure may feel great in the shower, but it strains your pipes and fixtures, leading to early failures.
Optimal pressure: 40–60 psi
How to test:
- Use a water pressure gauge from a hardware store
- Attach it to an outdoor spigot and turn it on fully
If pressure is too high, consider installing a pressure-reducing valve (PRV). Our University Place plumbing expertscan help install and calibrate the correct devices.
7. Winterize Plumbing Before the Cold Hits
In colder months, frozen pipes can burst, causing massive water damage and costly repairs. University Place winters can be unpredictable, so prevention is key.
Checklist for winter:
- Insulate exposed pipes (especially in basements, crawl spaces, attics)
- Detach garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets
- Seal foundation cracks and holes
Need help preparing for winter? Schedule seasonal plumbing maintenance before the first frost with Einstein Pros.
8. Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection
Even with DIY care, nothing replaces an annual inspection from a licensed professional. A plumbing expert can detect hidden problems, provide EPA-recommended solutions, and ensure your home is running efficiently.
At Einstein Pros – University Place Plumbing, our inspections include:
- Leak detection
- Drain flow assessment
- Fixture and pipe inspections
- Water heater checks
- Compliance with local and EPA standards
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your plumbing system isn’t just about avoiding costly repairs—it’s about protecting your home, saving money, and conserving valuable water resources. By following this EPA-recommended annual plumbing checklist, University Place homeowners can extend the life of their systems while aligning with sustainable practices.
If you’re unsure where to begin or need professional help, trust Einstein Pros – Your Trusted University Place Plumbing Experts. We provide reliable, eco-conscious services to keep your home efficient, safe, and ready for every season.
Need service or have questions?
Contact Einstein Pros today for local, certified plumbing support in University Place.