1. Annual is the Rule of Thumb
- Most experts—including Angi and Clover Contracting—recommend a comprehensive plumbing inspection once a year, especially for older homes or those with tree roots nearby.
- Some systems may stretch to every 2 years if newly installed, but never exceed 2 years without service
City of Vancouver Utilities
2. Semi‑Annual Checks for High‑Risk Situations
- Homes with mature trees, historic properties, or those in harsh weather zones should consider twice‑yearly inspections
- Climate factors in Vancouver, WA—especially rain and winter cold—can accelerate wear and clogging in drains and sewer lines.
- Clark Public Utilities Water Services
3. Seasonal Maintenance Tasks
- Annual tasks, such as flushing water heaters, checking anode rods, and draining sediment, should be done at least yearly—and potentially more in hard-water areas
- Inspect outdoor faucets, irrigation systems, and drains before and after winter to catch freezing damage early.
- Washington State Department of Health – Plumbing
4. Spot‑Check Maintenance You Can Do Quarterly
- At least quarterly checks for leaks, water pressure, drain performance, and shut-off valve operability can reveal early signs of trouble.
- Use a schedule or reminders to inspect under sinks, monitor your water meter, and listen for faucet-drip sounds.
✅ Why Routine Maintenance Matters
- Save money: Prevent small issues (like pinhole leaks) from becoming major repairs—sewer replacements can cost $6,000+ vs. $175–$475 for cleaning.
- Extend system life: Annual tune-ups help faucets, heaters, pipes, and water-related appliances last longer .
- Boost efficiency: Keep water pressure optimal and avoid mineral buildup or hard water damage .
- Stay ahead of emergencies: Catching early clog or corrosion keeps surprise floods or leaks at bay .
🏠 Einstein Pros Vancouver: Your Local Plumbing Partner
Einstein Pros Vancouver offers expert preventative maintenance plans tailored to your home system:
- Annual or semi‑annual full plumbing inspections
- Seasonal check-ups—before winter and after the rainy season
- Emergency spotting and repairs when you’re on schedule
- Transparent flat-rate pricing and upfront quotes
Schedule your next maintenance visit with Einstein Pros Vancouver to protect your home—and your wallet. Call them at 360‑768‑3030 or book online today to keep everything flowing smoothly.
🔧 Sample Maintenance Schedule for Vancouver Homeowners
| Frequency | DIY Checks | Professional Call |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | Check for leaks, water meter, shut-off valves | — |
| Quarterly | Listen to faucets, monitor drain flow | — |
| Every 6 Months | Seasonal outdoor faucet/drain check | — |
| Annually | Flush heater, replace anode rod, monitor water lines | Full inspection—pipes, pressure, sewer video camera |
| Every 6–12 Months | — | Preventative plan with Einstein Pros, tailored to your home |
📞 Conclusion
“How often” really depends on your home’s age, plumbing complexity, and local conditions. But as a rule:
- Yearly for all homes
- Bi‑annually for older homes or high-risk conditions
- Quarterly DIY checks help you catch early warning signs
Pair these with a yearly professional service from Einstein Pros Vancouver—you’ll save on emergency calls, prolong your plumbing’s life, and enjoy peace of mind.