You depend on your plumbing system all the time. But you can’t see inside it to determine its condition. A professional plumber has the tools and expertise to perform routine inspections or find the cause of minor symptoms. At Jay’s Heating, Air & Plumbing, we believe in proactive maintenance to address common issues and improve the long-term health of your plumbing system. A plumbing inspection helps achieve these objectives.
Understanding Plumbing Inspections
A plumbing inspection entails a thorough evaluation of your water supply and drainage system, plumbing fixtures, and appliances. It can involve a routine check for signs of wear and tear, corrosion, or small leaks. Or, a plumber can check for more specific issues and focus their assessment on:
- Sinks
- Sink traps
- Toilets
- Showers/bathtubs
- Water heaters
- Sump pumps
- Shut-off valves
- Exposed plumbing
- Drainage/venting systems (for bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, etc.)
- Water filtration equipment
What Does a Professional Plumbing Inspection Entail?
When performing a plumbing inspection, our technicians will focus on the following:
- Examination of Plumbing Fixtures: A check for leaks and functional issues with individual fixtures, which can lead to further damage and negatively impact your well-being.
- Inspection of Water Heaters: From flushing sediment from the tank to checking for signs of corrosion or wear, we’ll perform a full assessment of your water heater, its efficiency, and performance.
- Examination of Pipes and Drains: We’ll look for signs of leaks, damage, or corrosion, and, if necessary, clear any clogs and fix leaking pipes, fittings, or connections. If necessary, we can evaluate the condition of your sewer lines.
- Evaluation of Water Pressure: Proper water pressure is important to the health of your plumbing system. Pressure-related issues can include clogs, leaks, corrosion, faulty fixtures, or a failing pressure regulator.
Regular plumbing inspections can have a range of benefits, including:
- Long-Term Cost Savings: A small leak can waste many gallons of water per day, increasing water utility costs. Inspections also help catch problems before they require expensive plumbing repairs and replacements.
- Early Detection of Problems: A plumbing inspector can spot a leak that will worsen if not fixed. They can fix a crack or loose fitting before a pipe breaks. Fixing clogged drains, low or high water pressure, worn-out piping, or a malfunctioning fixture can also prevent bigger problems.
- Improved Water Efficiency: With regular maintenance, your pipes, faucets, toilet, and water heater can run more efficiently. If your goal is to reduce water consumption, then you should have your plumbing system inspected regularly.
- Enhanced Home Safety: Neglecting plumbing can lead to reduced water quality. Contaminants can otherwise cause foul odors and even put your health at risk. The health of your plumbing is also connected to indoor air quality, as leaks and other issues can lead to mold and other concerns.
When Should I Schedule a Plumbing Inspection in Mount Airy, NC?
Routine plumbing inspections are recommended annually. Preventative maintenance can be scheduled during any time of the year, but the ideal time is just before winter. Temperature extremes and ice can stress a plumbing system that’s already under higher usage when people are home more often. Therefore, it’s best to spot potential issues early.
Other situations that can warrant a plumbing inspection include:
- Before a Home Purchase: If you don’t know when the previous owner installed or last inspected their plumbing, have a professional check for issues that can cost you once you’ve finalized a major investment.
- After a Severe Weather Event: Extreme cold, high winds, lightning storms, heavy rains, ice, snow, and other severe weather events can take a toll on your plumbing. After severe weather strikes, schedule a plumbing inspection.
- Notable Changes in Water Usage: If your water bill is going up or the water meter changes when you haven’t used more water, schedule an inspection. A technician will check for and fix any hidden leaks before they cause major property damage.
Why Is Leak Detection So Important?
Leak detection is a crucial part of a plumbing inspection. An undetected leak can cause extensive water damage that might not be evident until it’s too late. Subtle signs include low water pressure or running water sounds. Meanwhile, stains on walls and ceilings, musty odors, and pooling water are sure signs of a leak. If left unchecked, the problem can escalate to mold and mildew throughout your home or even structural damage.
Our team uses advanced leak-detection technology to quickly identify trouble spots. These include electronic leak detection, which uses sensors to accurately track water flow, pressure, and other variables to pinpoint the location of a plumbing leak. Thermal imaging is another method used; it can detect water leaks by mapping temperature changes, as leaking water is nearly always warmer or cooler than its surroundings.
What’s the Significance of a Plumbing Inspection Report?
During a plumbing inspection, our plumbers always document their findings. A plumbing inspection report clearly describes any issues and identifies any repairs to prioritize or upgrades to consider. Our technicians are great communicators and explain inspection results in clear language to homeowners. They discuss any recommendations to ensure your plumbing system is functional, up-to-date, and free of any safety issues.
Choosing a Local Plumber for Plumbing Inspections in Mount Airy, NC
Weather extremes and seasonal variability in temperatures can create plumbing challenges in Upstate North Carolina. Fortunately, our team is familiar with these challenges and responds quickly in emergencies. We’ve been serving homeowners in the area since 2005 and are available 24/7. Our plumbers are fully licensed and certified, experienced in their field, and highly reputable based on a track record of successful projects.
Call Jay’s Heating, Air & Plumbing
Plumbing inspections can spot potential issues early, improve water efficiency, and save you money over time. They can also help avoid emergencies such as burst pipes and water damage. We recommend scheduling an annual plumbing inspection. Our licensed, trained, and experienced plumbers quickly evaluate your system and make any necessary repairs or upgrades. The function of your home and your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. To schedule a plumbing inspection with Jay’s Heating, Air & Plumbing, contact us online or call (336) 663-0496.
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