Before purchasing a house or property, consider checking the plumbing first. Plumbing issues can lead to structural damages and costly repairs. By checking the drains, faucets, meters, valves, sinks, toilets, water heaters, and any other plumbing, you’ll be able to prevent a plumbing disaster. Below, are a few suggestions for inspecting the plumbing of your future home.
Get a Professional Opinion
Before investing in a new home, have a professional plumber come out and take a look. They can ensure that the pipes are in good working order, and let you know if any problems are noticeable or developing. No one wants to deal with plumbing issues just after investing in a new home. Spending a little money on inspection may help you save big in the long run–and may even help you avoid purchasing a problem laden house.
Drain Camera
Just imagine purchasing a home only to learn that the sewer line has root damage and needs to be replaced. A camera inspection would have alerted you to this problem. Drain cameras provide a quick and easy way to see inside drain pipes without the need to remove flooring or wall panels. At Black Diamond Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Air, we have professional drain camera inspection equipment and expert plumbers who know how to use it.
Check the Water Meter and Valve
Close all faucets in the house and check if the water meter is turning—this will help you determine if there are any leaks. To check the valves, start with the main shut off valve. With the main valve shut off, no faucets on the property should have running water when they are turned on. Next, check other valves for leaks by turning on the main valve, and then turning off each valve one at a time and checking the corresponding faucet for running water. If water pours out of a faucet when its corresponding valve is off then a repair would be needed. Be sure to discuss the plumbing issues with the seller before buying.
Check the Faucets, Sinks, and Toilets
Ensure that all faucets, sinks, and toilets are fully functional. Keep an eye out for leaks and drips. It’s also a good idea to check out the water flow and pressure. Open faucets to maximum flow and ensure that they are functioning properly. Be sure to flush every toilet as well.
Inspect the Water Heater
Be sure to inspect all water heaters on the property for any signs of corrosion. A water heater should last about ten years. If you can learn the water heaters installation date, (look for an installation sticker on the tank) that will give you some idea of its remaining operational expectancy. A new water heater can be pricey, and if the water heater is old or showing signs of corrosion, you’ll want to discuss this with the home seller.
If you’re looking into purchasing a new home, have the experts at Black Diamond Electric, Plumbing, Heating, and Air to check for possible problems. We can inspect your future home’s plumbing so you can rest easy and feel good about your investment.
