There is no single set rule for how often plumbing in a private home must be checked. A simple look around every few months, with an extra check before winter, is a sensible habit for most homeowners. Landlords may have their own duties, so they should check what applies to them.
A Simple Routine You Can Follow
You do not need tools or special skills for a basic check. The aim is to spot small changes before they grow into bigger problems. Many people find it easiest to do a quick walk round each season.
Start with any pipework you can see, such as under sinks, behind toilets, in the airing cupboard and in the loft. Look for drips, green or white crusty marks on joints, damp patches or water stains. Feel the cupboard floor under the kitchen sink, as slow leaks often show up there first.
Next, turn each tap on and off. Check whether any tap keeps dripping after it is closed, or feels stiff or loose. Flush each toilet and listen. If the cistern keeps filling or you hear a trickle long after flushing, it may need attention.
Have a look at waste connections under basins, baths and the kitchen sink. Slow draining, gurgling or bad smells can be early signs of a partial blockage.
Check Your Stopcock and Water Pressure
Your stopcock is the valve that turns off the water coming into your home. Make sure you know where it is and that you can reach it easily. Every so often, gently turn it to check it still moves. If it is very stiff, do not force it, as old valves can be damaged.
Keep an eye on water pressure too. If taps or showers seem weaker than usual, note when it started and whether it affects one outlet or the whole house. A sudden change is worth getting looked at.
Getting Ready for Winter
Before the colder months, check that pipes in lofts, garages and outside walls are lagged. Foam pipe lagging is cheap and can help reduce the risk of frozen pipes. Outside taps can also be fitted with an insulated cover.
This is also a good time to make sure everyone in the home knows where the stopcock is. In a burst pipe, a few minutes can make a big difference to the amount of water damage.
When a Professional Check May Help
Some moments call for more than a quick look. A plumber can be useful when you are buying a home, planning a renovation or dealing with a problem that keeps coming back. A fresh pair of eyes may spot worn fittings or poor past work. You can find out more about our household plumbing services if you would like a check carried out.
A professional check can also help if your home has older pipework, or if you have noticed damp or rising water bills without a clear reason.
If you would like someone to look over the plumbing in your Swindon home, Emergency Plumber Swindon is happy to help. Call us on 01793 569521 to talk it through.