Plumbing inspections are important in any Michigan home, especially those that are several decades old. We recommend scheduling them annually. This allows our expert plumbers to notice and identify problems and determine appropriate solutions before the issues worsen. The more you know about how to care for your plumbing system, the better you can prevent plumbing repairs and replacements.
Why Older Michigan Homes Are More Vulnerable
Older Michigan homes often have outdated plumbing materials, which makes them particularly vulnerable to problems. Additionally, shifting soil can put stress on underground pipes, potentially leading to cracks and other damage. Winter is when these plumbing systems are most at risk, as the state experiences extremely frigid temperatures.
Common Plumbing Problems
Leaks, bursting pipes, and corrosion are three common types of plumbing issues in older Michigan homes. Outdated fixtures and appliances, such as water heaters, could also be problematic. Pay close attention to signs of clogs, from slow-draining water to pest infestations around the drain.
These issues may seem simple enough to fix on your own, but we strongly advise against it. DIY repairs could result in personal injury, such as skin burns and irritation from using chemical drain cleaners to clear blockages. They could also lead to further damage to the system, which can be easy considering the age of the pipes. Additionally, you may void the system’s warranty, which means you might have to pay for future repair costs. Warranties usually include terms stating that only plumbers can complete repairs.
Professional Plumbing Inspections vs. Self-Inspections
Professional appointments involve plumbers conducting a comprehensive inspection and performing various tasks. We use advanced techniques and tools, such as cameras, to help us diagnose hidden and obvious problems. These inspections typically occur once a year.
Homeowners can perform regular inspections, ideally once a month. They involve paying attention to any abnormal behaviors. For example, listen for gurgling noises, look for corrosion, and notice if there are any foul odors.
As beneficial as self-inspections are, they’re not a replacement for professional attention. DIY inspections may overlook subtle warning signs of major issues. Our experienced plumbers are highly trained in spotting problems that could easily become severe. Both, however, are essential for keeping the plumbing system in good condition.
What’s Included in a Professional Plumbing Inspection?
A professional plumbing inspection usually takes between 1 and 4 hours. The length of time depends on several factors, including the system’s complexity. We perform a complete inspection of your system, including your kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry room. Before scheduling this appointment, make sure to ask us about our plumbing service agreement.
We complete a wide range of tasks during the appointment. For instance, we check your water pressure, assess your exposed pipes, and make sure the valves are operating properly. Our plumbers look over all toilets, sinks, and showers, looking for problems like leaks and worn-out seals. Appliances, including water heaters, garbage disposals, and dishwashers, also get a thorough inspection. If you have a sump pump, we examine that as well to ensure it’s ready to protect your basement or crawlspace during heavy rains.
Financial Impact of Ignoring Inspections
If your plumbing system seems to be functioning correctly, it might be tempting to delay an inspection. However, there could be issues brewing that haven’t made themselves known. Putting off inspections gives minor problems time to develop into costly repairs or replacements.
If a serious situation occurs, such as a burst pipe, it could cause expensive water damage. It may affect the home’s structural integrity, ruin your belongings, and soak walls and floors. Depending on the type and severity of damage, you may have to rip apart drywall, carpeting, and various other areas of your home. Mold is another serious potential consequence. It can start growing within 24 to 48 hours, which is particularly concerning if it goes undetected for weeks or months.
Hidden leaks could also cause your water bills to skyrocket. If a plumber identifies and fixes the leaks, you may notice the costs return to normal.
Financial Benefits of Plumbing Inspections
Early detection of plumbing problems prevents costly repairs and helps extend your system’s lifespan. Spotting these issues is also beneficial for your water-using appliances. Situations like mineral buildup not only affect your pipes but also the appliances, such as dishwashers, that rely on water to operate. Determining appropriate solutions helps these appliances last as long as possible.
Keeping your plumbing system in top shape may increase your property value. If you decide to sell your home in the future, potential homebuyers might appreciate how well it’s been maintained. On the other hand, they may use a neglected plumbing system as a bargaining chip to negotiate a lower cost.
Additional Benefits of Plumbing Inspections
Although there are many financial benefits of annual plumbing inspections, there are plenty of other perks. They help your system and water-using appliances function properly, which leads to fewer frustrations and hassles. Taking steps to prevent mold and mildew can also contribute to a healthier environment.
However, nothing beats the peace of mind you can have knowing your plumbing system is operating optimally and safely. This is especially important if you have health-compromised individuals in the home.
Tips for Upgrading and Maintaining Plumbing Systems in Older Homes
All plumbing systems need regular maintenance to help them stay in good condition. However, due to their age, older houses need extra TLC. Being proactive is the best way to protect your home and its plumbing system. This can include performing maintenance tasks and making beneficial upgrades.
It’s worth repeating how important professional inspections and self-inspections are for your system. If you’re unsure where to check throughout your home, our plumbers can make suggestions to help with the process.
If you have hard water, installing a water softener is one example of an upgrade that could improve your home dramatically. It removes minerals like magnesium and calcium to prevent scale buildup in pipes and water-using appliances. This offers numerous benefits, including allowing water heaters to operate more efficiently, which could help lower utility bills.
Hydro jetting is another excellent way to care for your plumbing system. It involves using high-powered water to blast through major clogs, sludge, and tree roots to create a cleaner, more efficient system. Although there’s an upfront cost, it may lead to long-term savings by helping to prevent repairs, replacements, and emergency calls. This service isn’t part of a standard plumbing inspection, but you can request that we perform both during the same appointment.
Give Your Plumbing the Necessary TLC
Take steps today to protect your plumbing system. Matheson Heating Air Plumbing in Commerce, MI, offers comprehensive inspections to encourage a well-functioning system. Call now to schedule an appointment.