A plumbing inspection is often mandated by building owners, during which a licensed plumber inspects the pipes, water heater, and drainage system, among other components.
After the plumbers have completed their examination, the building owners are provided with an overview of everything that needs to be replaced or repaired. Thus, you will have the luxury of not having to deal with anything you want to avoid and the plumber will be responsible for it. Reliable Drain & Plumbing for more information.
And, as the name suggests, a plumbing inspection checklist is used by Certified Plumbers to document the assessment procedure and, if any, indicate any problems. It is a gadget that aids plumbers in conducting accurate and hassle-free inspections.
In this post, we will discuss the most critical topics to add in your plumbing inspection checklists.
Hydraulic Pressure Test:
Eliminate all air from the system using valves and fittings. Seal or block all apertures and shut off all valves. Now, fill the pipe system with water and pressurize it to the required pressure, namely 6 kg/cm2 (85 psi). Walk around the available pipelines and listen for loud pipes or look for leaks, if any exist. Then, check the pressure; a pressure decrease is an indicator of leaking pipes; otherwise, the pipes are leak-free.
Primary Water Source
This component should appear first on your checklist. The main water supply is essentially the core of the plumbing system of a house.
Copper, plastic, polybutylene, galvanized, or undetectable? This is the material of the main water supply pipes.
Water Supply Main Shutoff Valve — Take note of the position of the water supply main shutoff valve. Challenging-to-reach areas might make maintenance difficult. Examine for any flaws, damages, or leaks. The valve may need replacement if it has been frozen in place and cannot be turned. All of these concerns should be documented by the property owner.
Water Pressure
Ensure the water supply is operating properly at the required minimum pressure. To test the usual operating pressure of the pipes, activate the building’s water supply from 75 to 100 psi. Location-specific water pressure needs range from 40 to 80 psi, which is an acceptable range. The average water pressure is between 40 and 60 PSI. The majority of homes like pressure of about 50 PSI. Once you have determined your home’s water pressure, you may modify it to an optimal level for all family members and household needs.
Pipes, Fixtures & Drains
Check the property’s fixtures, drains, and supply lines. Any obstructions might have a negative effect on the whole plumbing system and should be removed immediately.
Again, it is essential to specify if the water pipes are made of copper, plastic, polybutylene, or galvanized steel. Mixed materials might indicate a problem. Polybutylene water pipe systems with plastic fittings, for instance, might be troublesome.
Use a plumbing endoscope to check the septic tank, the sewage lines from the property to the curb connection, and the drainage systems. Any damage or obstructions might indicate impending significant difficulties.
Outside Faucets – Inspect any hose faucets and gate valves located outside. Take note of the ability to winterize faucets during really cold weather.
Waterproof Test
Ensure that the whole plumbing system is sealed appropriately. This may be determined by filling each tub’s drainage system to the middle of the trip and allowing waste to overflow.
Pneumatic Pressure Test:
Perform air pressure test on pipes. It is a method for detecting water pipe leaks without actually having water in the pipes. Connect an air compressor to the water pipework, usually at the laundry faucet or outdoor sillcock. Turn off every faucet. Now pressurize the pipes to about 60 psi or 4.1 kg/cm2 of pressure. A minimum of 30 minutes must pass before determining whether there is a pressure decrease. Pressure decrease is a symptom of pipe leaking.
Positive aspects of the Plumbing Checklist
When you have a plumbing inspection conducted on a property, you have a better understanding of the estate’s overall condition, allowing you to make an educated choice.
In this respect, a plumbing inspection checklist assures quality discipline in addition to facilitating the work of licensed plumbers. It has the extra advantage of producing an impartial and accurate outcome.
In addition, a digital checklist will relieve Safety Inspectors of the burden of keeping paper documents. It is simple to use, and you may save the information for future use.
Plumbing Maintenance Tips
Your plumbing system is susceptible to damage regardless of when it was last repaired or rebuilt. Consequently, you must continue measures even after inspections have been conducted. There are means through which you may protect your home and reduce the likelihood of plumbing damage.
You may begin by regularly inspecting pipes, faucets, and hoses for water leaks. Next, you may determine whether the water’s color is anything other than clear, which might indicate rust in the pipes. Additionally, frequently examine for low water pressure, obstructions in the drainage system, and non-functioning toilets.
And to preserve it, the water heater may be drained. Additionally, you may reduce your use of chemical clog cleaning solutions. Finally, you may clear the gutter to prevent blockages.
These procedures should help you keep a plumbing system in good condition.
Comments