Moving into a new home in Steilacoom? Whether your house is newly constructed or a historic gem near the waterfront, your plumbing system should be at the top of your move-in checklist. Plumbing problems often lurk behind walls or under floors, and if left unchecked, they can lead to costly repairs down the road.
This complete plumbing checklist—built with trusted information from the HUD Home Maintenance Guide—will help you identify potential issues early and keep your home running efficiently.
âś… 1. Locate and Test the Main Water Shut-Off Valve
The first thing every homeowner in Steilacoom should do is locate the main water shut-off valve. In case of a leak or burst pipe, turning this off quickly can prevent major damage. It’s usually found in the basement, garage, or near the perimeter of the house.
🔹 Tip: Test it to make sure it turns easily. If it’s stuck, have it serviced immediately by a licensed plumber like Einstein Pros in Steilacoom.
âś… 2. Inspect for Leaks Around Fixtures
Look for leaks around toilets, under sinks, and behind appliances like your dishwasher and washing machine.
Signs of leaks include:
- Water stains on walls or ceilings
- Soft spots in flooring
- Moldy or musty odors
- Higher-than-usual water bills
Even a slow drip can waste hundreds of gallons a year and contribute to water damage.
âś… 3. Check Water Heater Age and Efficiency
Your water heater is one of the most used plumbing appliances in the house. Check its label for the manufacture date—if it’s more than 10–12 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement.
Also, look for:
- Rusty water
- Loud rumbling noises
- Water pooling around the base
Einstein Pros Steilacoom offers expert inspection and maintenance to extend your water heater’s life or help you upgrade to an energy-efficient model.
âś… 4. Inspect Pipe Materials (Especially in Older Homes)
Steilacoom’s historic homes may still have galvanized steel or polybutylene pipes—both known to corrode or break over time. You’ll want to inspect exposed piping (in basements or crawlspaces) to confirm what materials you have.
For professional repiping or detailed inspections, turn to Einstein Pros Steilacoom.
âś… 5. Test Water Pressure
Low water pressure can mean:
- A hidden leak
- A partially closed valve
- Mineral buildup in pipes
Use a water pressure gauge (available at most hardware stores). Healthy home water pressure should fall between 40–60 psi.
If pressure is outside that range, consult a licensed plumber to diagnose the cause.
âś… 6. Examine Drainage and Venting
Test all drains for slow movement or gurgling sounds. These are often signs of:
- Clogged pipes
- Tree roots infiltrating sewer lines
- Improper venting (which affects toilet flushing and drainage)
Routine inspections and drain cleaning from a trusted local service like Einstein Pros Steilacoom can help prevent larger sewer backups or costly repairs.
âś… 7. Install or Check Backflow Preventers
Some areas in Pierce County require backflow preventers to stop contaminated water from flowing back into your home’s potable supply. Make sure your irrigation systems and hose bibs have these installed properly.
If you’re unsure, schedule a check-up with the team at Einstein Pros to stay in compliance and protect your home.
âś… 8. Confirm Toilet Functionality
Check for:
- Constant running (which wastes water)
- Weak flushes (may indicate drain issues)
- Wobbling or leaks around the base
A faulty wax seal or cracked toilet can cause water damage to subfloors.
âś… 9. Test for Lead in Plumbing Fixtures
Homes built before 1986 may still have lead-based plumbing solder or brass fixtures that leach lead. The EPA recommends replacing older fixtures and testing water for safety.
âś… 10. Create a Maintenance Plan
Once you’ve gone through your plumbing checklist, set a reminder to:
- Flush your water heater annually
- Inspect your sump pump before rainy season
- Check for leaks every 3–6 months
- Schedule a professional plumbing inspection once a year
Need help? The trusted professionals at Einstein Pros Steilacoom offer comprehensive plumbing inspections, maintenance, and repairs tailored for local homes.
🏡 Final Thoughts
New homeowners in Steilacoom can save time, money, and headaches by performing this plumbing checklist within the first month of moving in. From historic homes near downtown to modern builds near Puget Sound, every home can benefit from proactive plumbing care.
Trust Einstein Pros Steilacoom—your local experts in plumbing repair, replacement, and emergency response.