Roanoke Valley Home Plumbing Calendar

January

Coldest month

0 of 3 done

Check that the main shut-off turns. See water won't stop.
Why it matters
A seized valve costs minutes in an emergency.
When to call a pro: Have a stuck valve replaced.
Keep foam covers on outdoor faucets.
Why it matters
They freeze first.
Look in the crawl space for wet insulation after cold nights.
Why it matters
Small splits show as drips.

February

Cold snaps

0 of 3 done

When a hard freeze is forecast, open sink cabinets and drip the furthest tap. See cold snap guide.
Why it matters
Roanoke hit 0°F in February 2015.
Check pipes near foundation vents.
Why it matters
Drafts freeze pipes fast.
Check under sinks for drips.
Why it matters
Slow leaks rot cabinets.

March

Thaw and rain

0 of 3 done

Test the sump pump with a bucket of water.
Why it matters
Spring rain fills the pit.
When to call a pro: Replace a pump that hums but won't pump.
Clear gutters and point downspouts away from the house.
Reconnect hoses and check outdoor faucets for splits.

April

Spring

0 of 3 done

Do the meter test for hidden leaks. See leak detection.
Clean faucet aerators and shower heads.
Why it matters
Hard water leaves scale.
Run water in any unused bathroom.
Why it matters
It refills traps and keeps sewer gas out.

May

Before summer storms

0 of 3 done

Check the basement floor drain flows freely.
Make sure the sump discharge line is clear and runs away from the foundation.
Look at the water heater area for rust or damp.

June

Hurricane season starts

0 of 3 done

Check the battery on a backup sump pump. See flood prep.
Why it matters
Storms and power cuts come together.
Move valuables off the basement floor.
Know where the gas shut-off is.

July

Hottest month

0 of 3 done

Check outdoor hose bibs and irrigation for leaks.
Why it matters
Summer water use is highest.
Watch for a sweating cold-water line in a humid basement.
Why it matters
Constant drips feed mold.
Test the meter's leak dial while away for a day.

August

Storm watch

0 of 3 done

Test the sump pump again.
Why it matters
Late-summer storms can stall over the valley.
Clean the dishwasher filter and check the drain hose.
Look under the kitchen sink for drips.

September

Peak storm season

0 of 3 done

Check the backwater valve if you have one.
Clear leaves from gutters after early storms.
Plan any fall plumbing projects.

October

Fall

0 of 3 done

Drain a few gallons from the water heater to flush sediment. See water heater age.
Why it matters
Hard water leaves scale.
When to call a pro: Ask a plumber if the drain valve won't close.
Check the T&P valve discharge pipe is intact.
If you're on a well, book a water test. See well or city water?

November

Before winter

0 of 3 done

Disconnect and drain hoses.
Insulate pipes in the crawl space and garage.
Close foundation vents if your home has them.

December

Early winter

0 of 3 done

Before a trip, shut off the main water and leave the heat on low.
Why it matters
An empty house can't flood.
Keep pipes under sinks on outside walls warm during cold nights.
Plan next year's plumbing upgrades.

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

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