As we enter into the 11th month of the year, the Holiday season is approaching very fast. Stores and people are already preparing for Holiday shopping. As we all know, things are very expensive these days and there is just not enough room in the budget for things to go wrong.  However, that’s not how good Ole Murphy’s Law works. Of course when you are expecting all of your family from out of state to come stay the week with you, a leak happens.  So as you are preparing to write down your Holiday lists of meals and gifts, here is a check list for you to make sure that the plumbing in your home is safe and will get you through the rest of the year.

First, and foremost, the news forecasts this winter to be very cold and rainy. For those of you that have any plumbing pipes ran over head in the attic make sure that both hot and cold pipes are insulated.  Insulating these pipes will protect them from freezing and splitting.

Check underneath the bathroom and kitchen sinks and inspect the angle stops and flex lines. Make sure there are no signs of green/blue residue or calcium spots (white crystal like substance).  If you notice this, make sure to have them replaced. If there is a bathroom that seldom gets used make sure to run all the fixtures.  This includes sinks, shower/tubs, and toilets for several minutes to make sure there are no leaks.  Turn the angle stops on/off to make sure that they will still turn. 

If your gas and/or electric water heater is 10 years or older and makes a popping noise like rocks are in it, it might be a good idea to have it replaced. In the winter time we use hot water more than in the summer. A water heater tank at its life expectancy is bound to have problems if it is having to work harder.

Be sure to check for loose or wobbling toilets. Wobbling/rocking toilets are a sign of a failed wax ring, which means that water can and eventually will start to leak out around the bottom of the toilet. Listen for any continuously running toilets.  If you have to jiggle the handle for the toilet to stop making noise 5 minutes after it is flushed the inner toilet guts are worn out and need to be replaced.  This can also help reduce your water bill.