How Often You Should Service Your Plumbing

Ten minutes a year on this list prevents the most common $2,000 plumbing emergencies.

Common causes

• Small silent leaks growing
• Sediment cooking in the water heater
• Sump pump not tested before rainy season
• Shut-off valves seizing from disuse

Step-by-step

1. 01Test the main shut-off — open and close it fully
2. 02Cycle the sump pump and check the discharge
3. 03Flush the water heater and inspect the anode rod every 3–5 years
4. 04Check every angle stop under sinks — replace any that leak

When to call Northbridge

• Annual maintenance visit with camera scope
• Anode rod replacement on aging tank
• Backwater valve inspection and cleanout
• Sump pump swap or battery-backup install