Buying a home is a major milestone, and once the keys are in your hand, reality sets in quickly. Plumbing systems are easy to overlook during the excitement of move-in day, yet they play a daily role in comfort, safety, and long-term home value. For new homeowners, learning what to check, what to monitor, and when to call a professional can prevent costly surprises down the road.
This essential plumbing checklist is designed to help you understand your system, spot potential issues early, and feel confident knowing your home’s plumbing is in good working order.
Start With a Full Plumbing Walkthrough
Before unpacking boxes or making renovations, take time to get familiar with your home’s plumbing layout. Knowing where key components are located makes future maintenance and plumbing emergencies far easier to handle.
Locate Critical Plumbing Shutoffs
Every homeowner should know how to stop water flow quickly. Take note of the following locations and label them if needed:
- Main water shutoff valve for the home
- Individual shutoff valves under sinks and behind toilets
- Water heater shutoff valve
- Outdoor hose bib shutoffs, if present
If any valves are difficult to turn, leak when adjusted, or are missing altogether, that is a smart time to call a professional plumber.
Identify Pipe Materials
Homes throughout the Lehigh Valley often feature a mix of plumbing materials depending on age and past updates. Common pipe types include copper, PVC, PEX, and, in older homes, galvanized steel. Each material has a different lifespan and maintenance needs. Galvanized piping, in particular, may signal a need for future piping replacement due to internal corrosion.
Inspect Fixtures for Leaks and Performance Issues
Fixtures are where plumbing problems often appear first. A careful inspection helps you catch issues before they cause water damage. Turn on each faucet and shower in the home, one at a time. Look and listen for:
- Dripping after the water is turned off
- Uneven water pressure
- Sputtering or air in the line
- Mineral buildup around fixture bases
Small leaks can waste significant water over time and often point to worn internal parts.
Test Toilets for Proper Operation
Toilets account for a large portion of indoor water use. Confirm that each toilet:
- Flushes cleanly without repeated attempts
- Refills the tank promptly
- Does not run continuously after flushing
- Feels stable at the base
A toilet that rocks or leaks at the floor may indicate a failing wax ring, which can lead to hidden water damage if left unchecked.
Evaluate Water Pressure and Drain Flow
Excessively high water pressure can strain pipes, valves, and appliances. Low pressure may point to blockages or aging piping. A plumber can test pressure levels and install a pressure-reducing valve if needed.
Run water in sinks, tubs, and showers to see how quickly the drains clear. Watch for:
- Slow draining
- Gurgling sounds
- Water backing up in nearby fixtures
These signs often suggest a buildup in drain lines or early sewer issues.
Review the Water Heater Carefully
Find the manufacture date on the unit’s label. Traditional tank water heaters often last eight to twelve years, while tankless systems may last longer with proper care. Knowing the age helps you plan for future water heater replacement rather than facing an unexpected breakdown.
During your inspection, check for:
- Rust or corrosion on the tank or fittings
- Moisture pooling around the base
- Unusual noises during operation
- Inconsistent hot water supply
Addressing these signs early can extend the unit’s lifespan and protect surrounding areas from damage.
Assess Drain and Sewer Health
Drain and sewer problems rarely start suddenly; they usually build up over time. If possible, review the seller’s disclosures or inspection notes for drain backups or sewer repairs. Homes with mature trees may be more prone to root intrusion in sewer lines.
Schedule Preventive Cleaning
Professional drain cleaning clears buildup before it causes blockages. Grease, soap residue, and hair are common contributors to clogs that routine maintenance can address.
Pay Attention to Water Quality
Water quality affects plumbing performance, appliance lifespan, and daily comfort. Hard water leaves scale on fixtures and inside pipes, reducing efficiency over time. Common signs include cloudy glassware, soap residue, and stiff laundry. A water test can confirm mineral levels and help determine if treatment options are worthwhile.
Review Well or Water Treatment Systems
If your home uses a well or has filtration equipment, review service records and maintenance schedules. These systems require regular attention to operate properly.
Establish a Maintenance Plan Early
Owning a home means ongoing responsibility, and plumbing works best with routine care rather than reactive repairs. At a minimum, you should plan for:
- Annual plumbing inspections
- Water heater service
- Drain cleaning as recommended
- Seasonal hose bib and sump pump checks
Consistent upkeep reduces the risk of emergency calls and unexpected expenses.
Build a Relationship With a Trusted Local Plumber
Having a reliable plumbing company already familiar with your home makes future service easier and more efficient. It also gives you a resource for questions as your home and family needs evolve.
Call Andreas Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning Before Small Issues Become Big Problems
If you are settling into a new home in Carbon County or the surrounding areas, this checklist is a strong starting point. Still, nothing replaces a professional evaluation from a team that understands local plumbing systems and older home construction.
At Andreas Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we help new homeowners gain confidence in their plumbing from day one. Our licensed technicians provide thorough inspections, honest recommendations, and clear pricing, all backed by a family-owned company that has served the Lehigh Valley for generations. From water heaters and drains to full plumbing evaluations, we are ready to help protect your investment.
Schedule service today or give our team a call to get your home’s plumbing on the right track from the start.