Monthly Plumbing Maintenance Checklist Every Homeowner Should Follow

At Cotton City Plumbing, we believe the best way to avoid emergency plumbing disasters is through regular maintenance. Just like your car needs routine oil changes, your home’s plumbing system needs monthly checkups to keep everything flowing smoothly and efficiently.

Here’s a simple monthly plumbing maintenance checklist to help you avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your pipes, fixtures, and appliances.

1. Check for Leaks Under Sinks

Take a few minutes to inspect under your kitchen and bathroom sinks. Look for:

  • Puddles or moisture

  • Rust on pipes or connections

  • Musty odors (signs of hidden leaks or mold)

🛠 Tip from the Pros: Even a small drip can waste hundreds of gallons per year—and spike your water bill.

2. Test Faucets & Showerheads

Turn on each faucet and shower in your home. Watch for:

  • Slow or uneven water flow

  • Unusual noises

  • Low water pressure

If you notice a clog or buildup, it might be time to clean the aerator or showerhead—or call us for a quick tune-up.

3. Flush and Inspect Toilets

Check that your toilet flushes smoothly and refills properly. Remove the tank lid and ensure:

  • The flapper seals well

  • The float and fill valve work correctly

  • There's no continuous running water

4. Inspect Exposed Pipes

Take a walk through your basement, crawl space, or utility room. Look for:

  • Corrosion or rust on pipes

  • Signs of condensation or drips

  • Discoloration or mildew near pipe joints

Spotted something unusual? Don’t wait—Cotton City Plumbing can help before it turns into a costly repair.

5. Clean Out Drains

Slow drains are often the first sign of a clog. Prevent buildup by:

  • Pouring a pot of boiling water down drains monthly

  • Using baking soda and vinegar for a natural clean

  • Avoiding chemical drain cleaners that damage pipes

If the issue persists, give us a call—we offer safe and effective drain cleaning services.

6. Test Your Water Heater

Your water heater works hard every day. Each month, you should:

  • Listen for unusual popping or hissing sounds

  • Check for leaks or rust around the base

  • Make sure it’s heating water efficiently

🛠 Bonus Tip: Once a year, flush the tank to remove sediment. (We can do this for you during an annual inspection!)

7. Check Outdoor Faucets & Hoses

Especially in warmer months, inspect outdoor plumbing:

  • Ensure hoses aren’t leaking

  • Test spigots for good water pressure

  • Look for signs of freeze damage (if recently cold)

8. Look at Your Water Bill

Has your water bill increased unexpectedly? It could be a sign of:

  • Hidden leaks

  • Running toilets

  • Underground pipe issues

Let us help you investigate—we offer expert leak detection services.

Need Professional Help? We’ve Got You Covered.

Routine plumbing maintenance helps protect your home and wallet. If you notice anything unusual—or just want peace of mind—Cotton City Plumbing is here for you.

💧 Emergency service.
🛠 Friendly, licensed plumbers.
📍 Proudly serving Cotton City and surrounding areas.

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