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Performing regular plumbing maintenance in your home can prevent issues from becoming expensive repairs,
improve efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your pipes and fixtures. The preventative maintenance checklist
below from Aslan Plumbing outlines essential areas to inspect and maintain.
Inspecting Toilets
A toilet's inner mechanisms are prone to leaks and damage if not maintained properly. Check all fill valves,
flush valves, flapper seals and supply lines at least once a year. Additionally:
● Flush the toilet to test for smooth operation and proper water flow. Any interruptions or loud noises

could indicate debris or damage.

● Listen for running water which could signify a silent leak, especially from the tank fill valve or flapper
seal.
● Lift the tank lid and inspect all parts. Look for signs of wear on flush valves, flappers and fill tubes.
Replace any deteriorated rubber parts.
● Adjust the water level in the tank if it's set too high, which wastes water with every flush.
● Replace cracked or badly fitting tank lids that could allow water into the inner-tank components.
● Clean the entire toilet bowl regularly using a toilet brush to remove mineral deposits and debris that
can damage parts over time.
Water Heater Maintenance
Flushing sediment from your water heater tank annually is a simple yet effective way to extend its life and
efficiency. During flushing:
● Connect a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and release water until it runs clear. This
removes mineral buildup that interferes with heating.
● Inspect all pipes, valves and connectors for signs of corrosion, leaks or rust which could indicate
damage.
● Check that the temperature and pressure relief valve opens and closes smoothly and isn't stuck or
blocked.
● Listen for unusual noises or knocking which may signal sediment buildup or a defective heating
element.

Checking for Drain Clogs
Sluggish drains are often an early warning sign of a blockage. To possibly remedy minor clogs:
● Pour a kettle of hot water down the drain to melt away possible debris or soap buildup.
● Mix hot water with vinegar and baking soda and allow it to sit for an hour, then flush with more hot
water. The chemical reaction can help break down organic matter.
● Use a plunger to create suction on a clogged sink drain. Pump the plunger up and down vigorously for
several minutes.

● Prevent future clogs using drain screens or strainers which catch hair and solid debris. Clean them after
each use.
However, severe drain clogs often require professional solutions like hydrojetting to safely clear blockages.
Chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes and should always be a last resort.
Fixing Leaks
Even small leaks left unattended can lead to significant water damage and unnecessary water waste. Some
signs of leaks include:
● Water droplets or puddles beneath sinks, toilets and appliances.
● Warped flooring or floors that cup upward near walls.
● Soggy areas in carpet or around floor tiles.
● Minor leaks can sometimes be addressed by tightening, fitting or replacing faulty washers and gaskets
in faucets, shower fixtures and toilet parts.
● Pipe epoxy putty can temporarily stop leaks until replacement parts are installed.
● Silent toilet leaks can be detected by listening for the sound of running water when the tank is filling.
● Faucet aerators or flow restrictors may need adjusting or replacing if water drips slowly after turning
off the tap.
● Over time, severely corroded pipes and fittings will likely need to be fully replaced to completely stop
leaks.
By following this basic preventative maintenance checklist and inspecting plumbing systems regularly,
homeowners can identify and address minor issues proactively to avoid costly repairs and water damage.
Contact the team of trusted Winnipeg plumbers at Aslan Plumbing for plumbing inspections, maintenance
services and reliable repairs for your home or business.