Plumbing Features to Check Before Buying a New Home

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Purchasing a new home is a significant investment, and ensuring that the property is in good condition is essential. One of the most critical areas to inspect is the plumbing system. Plumbing issues can be costly and disruptive, so taking time to evaluate this aspect thoroughly can save you from future headaches. Below are the essential plumbing features you should check before buying a new home.

1. Toilets

Toilets are one of the most used plumbing fixtures in any home, making them a critical component to inspect.

What to Check:

  • Flush Test: Flush all toilets in the home to ensure they work efficiently. Water should swirl quickly down the drain, completely empty the bowl, and refill to the appropriate level.
  • Leaks and Stability: Sit lightly on the toilet to test for wobbliness. Instability could indicate a damaged wax ring or issues with the toilet’s installation. Check for discoloration or water stains around the base, as these may signal leaks.
  • Signs of Mold or Rot: Leaks from toilets can lead to wood rot and mold in the subfloor, which are expensive to repair.

Why It Matters:

Leaking or unstable toilets can lead to extensive structural damage if left unresolved. Identifying these issues before purchasing the home can provide leverage for negotiating repairs or adjustments in the sale price.

2. Main Sewers

The main sewer line is the backbone of a home’s plumbing system, and issues here can be both costly and disruptive.

What to Check:

  • Sewer Functionality: If possible, schedule a sewer camera inspection with a professional plumber. This can identify blockages, cracks, or collapsed sections of the sewer line.
  • Driveway and Yard Check: Look for any visible cracks or sinking in the driveway or yard, as these may indicate problems with underground sewer lines.
  • Tree Roots: Large trees near the home could have roots that penetrate and damage sewer pipes. Ensure the vegetation is not causing issues with the plumbing system.

Why It Matters:

Main sewer line repairs can run into thousands of dollars. Verifying the condition of the sewer system ensures you won’t inherit expensive repairs after moving in.

3. Water Heaters

Water heaters are critical for providing hot water throughout the home, and their condition can significantly impact your comfort and utility bills.

What to Check:

  • Age of the Unit: Water heaters typically last 8–12 years. If the unit is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may need replacement soon.
  • Visible Wear and Tear: Look for rust, scale buildup, or signs of leaks around the water heater. Check for soot or smoke marks that might indicate improper combustion.
  • Performance: Turn on hot water at multiple faucets to test how quickly the water heats up and whether the temperature is consistent.

Why It Matters:

A failing water heater can cause leaks, lead to water damage, and produce inconsistent hot water. Understanding the unit’s condition can help you negotiate replacements or repairs before finalizing the purchase.

4. Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals are convenient kitchen appliances, but they need to function correctly to avoid drainage and waste issues.

What to Check:

  • Operational Test: Turn on the garbage disposal and listen for unusual sounds like grinding, rattling, or loud humming. The unit should run smoothly without excessive vibration.
  • Sink Movement: Observe the sink and counter area for unusual movement while the disposal is running. Excess vibration can indicate improper installation or mechanical issues.
  • Age and Maintenance: Ask the homeowner or real estate agent about the disposal unit’s age and maintenance history.

Why It Matters:

A malfunctioning garbage disposal can lead to clogs, drainage problems, and even kitchen plumbing issues. Ensuring it works properly saves future repair costs.

5. Faucets, Showers, and Sinks

Water fixtures in kitchens and bathrooms should be in good condition to avoid leaks and ensure proper water pressure.

What to Check:

  • Water Pressure: Turn on faucets and showers to test water pressure. Low pressure may indicate pipe blockages, leaks, or issues with the water supply.
  • Leaks: Inspect under sinks, around faucets, and at pipe joints for any signs of leaks or water damage.
  • Drainage: Check that sinks and showers drain efficiently without pooling water, which could indicate a clog in the pipes.

Why It Matters:

Leaks and clogs are common problems that can escalate if not addressed. Identifying these issues early can help prevent water waste and costly repairs.

6. Pipes and Valves

The condition of pipes and valves plays a vital role in maintaining the plumbing system’s efficiency.

What to Check:

  • Pipe Material: Determine whether the home uses modern materials like PEX or copper or outdated ones like galvanized steel, which may be prone to corrosion.
  • Shut-Off Valves: Locate the main water shut-off valve and ensure it works properly. Test other shut-off valves under sinks and toilets to confirm they function correctly.
  • Visible Damage: Inspect exposed pipes for corrosion, leaks, or signs of wear and tear.

Why It Matters:

Aging pipes and faulty valves can lead to significant water damage and inefficiency in the plumbing system. Replacing outdated pipes is a costly but necessary upgrade.

7. Outdoor Plumbing Features

Don’t forget to inspect outdoor plumbing, as it is often overlooked during home inspections.

What to Check:

  • Hose Bibs and Spigots: Turn on outdoor faucets to check for leaks or low pressure. Ensure they shut off completely to avoid dripping.
  • Sprinkler Systems: If the home has an irrigation system, test its functionality and look for leaks or damaged sprinkler heads.
  • Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure that gutters and downspouts are directing water away from the home’s foundation to prevent drainage issues.

Why It Matters:

Outdoor plumbing problems can lead to water wastage and damage to the home’s exterior or foundation.

8. Overall Plumbing System Efficiency

Finally, evaluate the plumbing system’s overall efficiency and maintenance history.

What to Check:

  • Water Meter Test: Ensure the water meter is functioning correctly and check for unexpected water usage, which could indicate hidden leaks.
  • Maintenance Records: Ask for documentation of past plumbing repairs or upgrades to understand the system’s history and reliability.
  • Professional Inspection: Hire a licensed plumber to perform a thorough inspection of the entire plumbing system. They can identify issues that may not be immediately visible.

Conclusion

Inspecting plumbing features before buying a home is crucial to avoid unexpected repair costs and ensure a functional plumbing system. From toilets and water heaters to outdoor faucets and main sewer lines, every aspect of the plumbing system should be thoroughly evaluated. By conducting a detailed inspection or hiring a professional plumber, you can make a well-informed decision and secure a property with reliable plumbing. This proactive approach will save you time, money, and stress in the long run