Water Meter
Know where your water meter is. It is separate from your home’s main shutoff. Do not operate a utility-owned shutoff; contact your water provider if you need help.
FREE FALL PLUMBING HEALTH CHECKLIST
Small checks now.
Fewer costly surprises later.
Checking your plumbing may not be the most exciting thing on your fall to-do list, but a little attention now can help you catch problems before they become expensive repairs. Our free fall checklist gives Pacific Northwest homeowners nine preventative checks, with practical reminders about where to look, what to watch for and when to ask a professional for help.
Walk through the checks with Trevor
Not sure where to look? Follow along as Trevor explains the checks around your home, what to watch for, and when to ask a professional for help. Keep your checklist handy and pause whenever you need to.
Only check areas you can reach safely. The checklist and video are educational guides, not a substitute for a professional inspection.
Your fall plumbing checklist
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A little attention now can help you catch concerns before they become costly repairs. Inspect only what you can reach safely. This guide does not replace a professional inspection. Check off each item you review. Skip items that do not apply.
Outside & shutoffs
Sprinkler System
If you have a sprinkler system, arrange professional winterization before freezing weather. Ask a sprinkler specialist to check the valves and confirm the proper draining or blowout method for your system.
Outdoor Hose Faucets
Disconnect garden hoses before freezing weather. Check outdoor faucets for drips, cracks or damage.
Main House Shut-Off Valve
Find your home’s main water shutoff. Keep it accessible and show household members where it is. Test that it stops flow at a cold-water faucet only after reading the valve-safety note below.
Inside & ongoing checks
Water Heater
Look for water, rust or corrosion around the unit. Keep the check visual. Do not remove panels or adjust gas components.
Kitchen Sink
Look under the sink for drips, dampness or water stains. Find its shutoff valves. Check that they stop water to the fixture only after reading the valve-safety note below.
Bathroom Sinks & Toilets
Look for drips, dampness or water stains. Note any toilet that keeps running, rocks or leaks at the base. Find the fixture shutoff valves and test only as described in the safety note below.
Crawl Space
From a safe viewing point, look for dampness, standing water or signs of leaks. Check visible pipes for missing, damaged or wet insulation, especially near vents. Do not enter standing water or a space with exposed wiring, sewage or unsafe access.
Water Bill
Compare water use and charges. Check for rate or household-use changes before assuming a leak. Ask a plumber about unexplained usage.
See anything unusual?
A drip, damp spot, or unexplained change in water use is worth a closer look. Tell Stars & Stripes Plumbing what you noticed, or ask about a check you’re unsure how to complete safely.