Shopping for your first home is exciting, but it can be challenging to know what issues to be on the lookout for. While roof damage or sagging ceilings may be apparent, many plumbing issues are not as readily visible. Here are a few places to check when assessing at the plumbing in a potential home.

How to Assess Plumbing Problems in a Prospective Home

1. Flush the Toilets

Flush all the toilets to make sure they operate, and to see if they have a strong or weak flush. Making sure this basic necessity functions regularly and comfortably throughout the home is essential. If a toilet runs too long, it could indicate a leak you can’t see.

2. Check Water Pressure

Turn on taps to observe the water pressure throughout the house. This includes kitchens, bathrooms, utility sinks, showers, and baths. You’re looking for strong, consistent flow and clear, clean water. If the stream is weak or discolored, it’s time to call a plumber.

3. Test Shut Off Valves

Fully operating shut off valves are crucial in an emergency like flooding from a broken or frozen pipe. Test the main valve in the home to make sure you can turn it on and off. If it hasn’t been used or serviced recently, the valve may be corroded and hard to turn.

4. Inspect the Water Heater

Hot water is vital, not just in the winter, but all year round. Look for any corroded parts or signs of water damage around the heater that could be from past leaks. Even if everything appears in good condition, have a professional flush the water heater when you move in to get rid of any calcium and hard water buildup.

5. Check Drains and Downspouts

Look for signs of pooling water around basement drains and outside downspouts. If basement drains aren’t emptying correctly, they may be susceptible to backups that bring dead leaves and other debris with them. If you see signs of blockage, it could be due to thin pipes, root intrusion, or ground settling.

If you have questions about the plumbing or heating in your new home, call Valley Mechanical in Naples, NY. This team of licensed, bonded, and insured HVAC technicians and plumbers have provided residents of Yates, Steuben, and Ontario counties with quality plumbing, including maintenance and emergency services, since 1999. For a full list of their services, visit their website. If you need immediate assistance or emergency services, call (585) 374-6866.