Your home’s plumbing system works hard behind the scenes every day, delivering clean water, removing waste, and maintaining a safe and comfortable environment. But like any part of your home, it needs regular care and attention to function properly. Neglecting plumbing maintenance can lead to costly repairs, water damage, or even emergency situations.
Fortunately, maintaining your plumbing system doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few preventative measures and the support of a reliable plumbing team, you can keep your system running smoothly year-round.
Inspect for Leaks Regularly
Even a small leak can waste gallons of water and damage your home over time. Check under sinks, around toilets, and near exposed pipes for any signs of moisture or corrosion. Early detection can prevent more serious issues down the road. If you’re unsure where a leak is coming from, a professional inspection from Ava’s Plumbing can identify and resolve the problem quickly.
Clear Drains and Prevent Clogs
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. Avoid putting grease, coffee grounds, hair, or non-flushable items down your drains. Use drain covers in showers and sinks to catch debris, and consider pouring a mixture of hot water and baking soda down your drains monthly to keep them clean.
Know the Age of Your Pipes
Older homes in San Diego may have galvanized pipes, which can corrode over time. If your home is several decades old and hasn’t had a plumbing inspection recently, it’s wise to have a licensed plumber assess the condition of your pipes. Replacing outdated piping now can save you from major leaks or water damage later.
Monitor Water Pressure
Excessively high water pressure may feel nice in the shower but can stress your pipes and fixtures, leading to premature wear or burst pipes. Invest in a water pressure gauge to ensure it stays within a safe range (generally 40–60 psi). If your pressure is consistently too high, a plumber can install a pressure-reducing valve to protect your system.
Flush Your Water Heater
Sediment buildup in your water heater can reduce its efficiency and lifespan. Flushing your water heater once a year helps remove these minerals and keeps your system running efficiently. If you’re unsure how to flush it safely, Ava’s Plumbing offers professional water heater maintenance services.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Even in sunny San Diego, nighttime temperatures can occasionally drop low enough to affect your plumbing—especially in garages or crawl spaces. Insulating exposed pipes can help prevent freezing, reduce heat loss, and lower energy bills by maintaining consistent water temperature.
Test Your Shut-Off Valves
In the event of a plumbing emergency, knowing where your main shut-off valve is—and ensuring it works—is essential. Turn it off and back on once or twice a year to make sure it hasn’t become stuck or corroded. Also test shut-off valves under sinks and behind toilets so you’re always prepared.
Schedule Routine Plumbing Inspections
One of the best ways to maintain your home’s plumbing is to schedule regular checkups with a licensed plumber. Professional inspections can catch hidden issues before they escalate and give you peace of mind that everything is working as it should.
How we can help
At Ava’s Plumbing, we specialize in fast, reliable, and affordable plumbing services for homeowners throughout San Diego. As the fastest licensed plumbers in the city, we’re proud to offer 24-hour emergency services, uniformed technicians, free estimates, and availability on weekends and holidays. We also provide financing options to help make unexpected repairs or upgrades more manageable. Whether it’s a minor leak or a full system checkup, Ava’s Plumbing is here to keep your plumbing system in top shape—year-round. Call us today to schedule your next maintenance visit!