If you are planning to buy a new home, it is wise to examine the entire structure, including the plumbing systems before you make a final commitment. It is recommended that you call upon a professional to check all the plumbing systems of the house you are interested in.
Professionals are very much familiar with common problems occurring in the plumbing systems and preciselyknow how and what to look for. But taking a final survey yourself is also important. Mentioned below are some tips that you should follow while inspecting plumbing system.
Look for Lead Pipes
While lead is certainly useful, it is also a wellknown toxin and hence an environmental hazard. These pipes should certainly be avoided if you have small children. Majority of older homes have lead or galvanized plumbing so keep this prospect in mind before signing the deal.
Know the Water Meter
Look for the water meter and examine whether the shut off valve connected to the home’s main water supply is in perfect working condition. The shut off valve is usually located next to the water meter or the place form where the water pipes enter the home. Turning off the valve should stop all the water supply in every tap of the house, and you should go all around the house turning on the taps to check for any leakage. None of the taps should be able to dispense water at that time.
Examine the Hot Water Heater
It is very important to check the size of a water heater, as this will provide hot water to your entire family. You also need to consider its location and how old it is and its working condition. While inspecting the heater look out for mineral deposits, any sort of corrosion in any of its part, and warning signs of its replacement. If you notice any of these symptoms, request its change and installation of a new one as a part of your purchase agreement.
Prevent Wastage
Ask about the potential new sewage system of the house and find out whether the sewage system of the house is connected to a municipal sewer or otherwise has a separate septic tank. If the house is connected to its separate septic tank, then find out its location and make a note when it was emptied and serviced the last time. Leakage of any sort or odor around the septic tank is a sign indicating a septic problem.
Freeze Not
Freezing of pipes creates many issues for the homeowners such as pipe breakage, blocked water supply, leakage, etc. In order to avoid this hassle, look for a house where the all pipe vents can be closed during the times of intense cold. Wrapping the pipes can be another alternative to prevent them from freezing. Therefore you need to make sure you are offered this service before you make a purchase.
Leak- free Faucets
It is important to ensure that all your bathroom and kitchen faucets are in proper working condition and do not leak when turned off. In case you find any leakage in them, find the cause for the same and get them replaced before paying for the house.
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