It is generally recommended to schedule a professional plumbing inspection annually, though an inspection every two years may be sufficient for newer homes. The ideal frequency depends on several factors, including the age of your plumbing system, water quality (such as hardness), and any previous plumbing issues. More frequent checks are advisable for older homes or those with a history of problems. Additionally, if your property has mature trees with extensive root systems, more frequent inspections are beneficial as roots can crack sewer and water lines. Regular maintenance helps identify potential issues early, preventing costly repairs, and can include checking for leaks, inspecting connections, and ensuring pipes and fixtures are in good working condition to prolong the life of your plumbing system.

If you notice smells or clogs, you’ll know something’s wrong with your shower drain P-trap or the plumbing. Most of the time, smells and clogs are due to a clogged P-trap. However, in some instances, you may smell sewage. If this happens, open your windows and contact a plumber to help. They can do a plumbing inspection and let you know if anything needs to be repaired or replaced. Common culprits are a dry drain, cracks in the plumbing, or a clogged vent.

Check your basement floor. There’s usually a covered panel in the floor. The valve could also be near a sump pump. If you don’t have a basement, look near your water meter. You may see a rectangular or round cover, which is often clear (allowing you to easily see inside), over the valve.

While frozen pipes will eventually thaw on their own as temperatures rise, it is not safe to let this happen unattended. As the ice blockage melts, water can become trapped, building up extreme pressure within the pipe. This pressure can cause the pipe to burst, leading to severe water damage, costly leaks, and serious damage to your plumbing system. It is best to handle frozen pipes as quickly as possible. If you do not see any visible damage, you can try to slowly warm the pipes by increasing warm air circulation or applying warm towels. However, if you spot any leaks or damage, you should call a plumber immediately. The best course of action is always to take preventative measures to stop pipes from freezing.