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Our Ultimate Plumbing Maintenance Guide on SnapTap

Over time and with temperature changes, household pipes expand and contract, leading to wear and tear. If clogged or aging pipes are not addressed promptly, the cost of repairs can rise. To ensure your pipes stay in top condition, SnapTap recently conducted a survey of 1,000 homeowners to understand how they maintain their plumbing and what challenges they face. Our survey results revealed that 85% of respondents wish they paid more attention to their plumbing systems throughout the year. Although most homeowners agree that regular plumbing maintenance is necessary, they often skip it due to busy schedules or the belief that it’s too complicated. On average, homeowners spend only 2-3 hours per year on plumbing maintenance, which is far less than the time spent on other home repairs. Only 70% of respondents said they would be willing to spend up to $300 hiring a professional plumber for maintenance. SnapTap’s expert plumbers, along with Master Plumber Tom Mitchell, offer the following advice: professional tasks should be left to professionals. While it might seem more convenient to do it yourself, many homeowners mistakenly use chemical agents to clean their pipes. Some of these chemicals are ineffective and, in worse cases, can accelerate pipe corrosion, leading to more costly repairs. Tom Mitchell also recommends that regular plumbing maintenance and subscription services can extend the lifespan of your pipes, reduce unnecessary repair costs, and save time. If you're unsure whether you can handle the task, it’s always best to call a professional. To help alleviate the pressure of plumbing maintenance, we’ve put together a plumbing checklist. These key tasks will ensure your plumbing system remains in good condition year-round, preventing unexpected repair costs—whether you tackle them yourself or hire a professional for a quick fix: • Annual Plumbing Inspection (Hire a Pro ): Invite a professional to inspect your plumbing regularly. This will allow you to spot issues early, avoid safety hazards, and save time and money. The inspection should include checking for leaks, corrosion, and water pressure issues. • Drain Cleaning (Hire a Pro /DIY): Clogs commonly occur in kitchen and bathroom drains. Regular cleaning can prevent debris buildup that leads to slow drainage and potential overflow. You can either clean the drains yourself or hire a professional to do it. • Water Heater Maintenance (Hire a Pro ): Over time, water heaters accumulate sediment, which can not only cause bacteria to grow but, in severe cases, even lead to an explosion. Regularly cleaning your water heater can extend its lifespan and maintain its efficiency. Cleaning it every six months to a year is a good idea. • Toilet Maintenance (DIY): Toilets can get clogged if too much toilet paper or foreign objects are flushed. Don’t worry, though—unclogging a toilet is simple with the help of a plunger or toilet auger. • Faucet and Showerhead Cleaning (DIY): Faucets and showerheads can become clogged with mineral deposits over time, leading to low water pressure and bacterial buildup. This can pose health risks. You can clean them yourself by removing the deposits and debris. • Sewer Line Inspection (Hire a Pro /DIY): Debris can cause sewer lines to clog. If you notice slow drainage or foul odors, it’s time for an inspection. A professional has the tools to check your sewer line and prevent extensive damage. • Fixing Leaks (Hire a Pro /DIY): Leaking faucets and pipes are not only annoying but also waste water. If left unchecked, they can cause damage to floors and lead to other issues. Address leaks as soon as possible. Small leaks can be fixed yourself, but larger ones should be handled by a professional. Proactively maintaining your plumbing can save you time, money, and stress. Keeping your pipes in good condition not only helps you avoid expensive repairs but also ensures a healthier and more efficient home. Good luck with your plumbing maintenance!  
Christopher Edwards
Christopher Edwards Mar 11, 2025