Ignoring issues with your home’s plumbing is like ignoring your car’s oil change–minor problems can quickly snowball into expensive repairs. Regular inspection and maintenance prevent leaks, extend the life of your system, and keep your home running smoothly. Taking steps daily, weekly, and seasonally to protect your plumbing is easy to do and saves you hassle in the long run. And when your checklist reveals irregularities, it’s time to schedule home plumbing services. 

For fast, reliable, and local plumbing and sewer line service, McLean, VA, home- and business owners can turn to Hicks Plumbing Service. Our team of professionals is committed to providing high-quality solutions for all plumbing dilemmas. From fixture repair to hydro jetting, our cost-effective workmanship saves you headaches and expenses. Call Hicks at (703) 803-7466 or visit our website for all plumbing maintenance needs. 

Below, we provide a checklist for home plumbing maintenance: 

Daily Maintenance 

• Prevent Clogs: For those without a garbage disposal, reduce food going down the drain by scraping scraps into the trash before rinsing dishes. If a clog does occur, clear it as soon as possible before it becomes a harmful blockage. 
• Limit Oils and Grease: Avoid pouring cooking oil, grease, or fat down your drains. These liquids solidify when cooled and contribute to pipe damage. Instead, dispose of them in a sealed container and throw them in the trash. 
• Skip the “Flushables”: Only flush toilet paper in the bathroom. Even wipes labeled as “flushable” can cause damaging backups. Hygiene products that are not toilet paper should be disposed of in the trash. 

Weekly Maintenance 

• Check for Leaks: Look under sinks, around toilets, and near water-using appliances for signs of moisture, water marks, mold, or musty smells. If you discover a leak, contact a 24/7 emergency plumber. 
• Test Drains: Run water in all sinks, showers, and tubs. Slow drainage or bubbling could indicate a clog or pipe issue. If you cannot identify the cause of a slow drain from the surface, call a residential plumbing company ASAP. 
• Faucets & Valves: Check for drips, loose handles, or mineral buildup. Tighten wobbly handles to avoid leaks and clean faucets gently with a mild cleaner to prevent rust. 

Seasonal Maintenance

• Spring & Summer: Check outdoor faucets and hoses for damage, and prepare for the rainy months by testing sump pumps. Furthermore, monitor water usage for sudden increases, as they could indicate leaks. 
• Fall & Winter: Disconnect and drain hoses before freezing temperatures arrive. If you have exposed pipes in unheated areas (such as garages and crawl spaces), insulate them to prevent freezing.  

Home Plumbing Services Available Throughout McLean, VA! 

When plumbing inspections reveal problems, choose a comprehensive home plumbing service to handle the job. For 30+ years, Hicks Plumbing has provided exceptional repair and replacement services to the McLean, VA, area. Our certified professionals can quickly diagnose plumbing issues and offer reliable solutions to get your system back up and running–call (703) 803-7466 today for all your plumbing needs!