Buying a new home is an incredible milestone, especially in beautiful neighborhoods like Carmichael or Citrus Heights. However, beneath those granite countertops and fresh coats of paint, your plumbing system could be hiding some expensive secrets. At Mr. Drain, we want your move-in experience to be nothing but celebratory, which is why we’ve put together this quick guide to the red flags you should check before you sign on the dotted line.
Found your dream home but worried about the pipes? Don't risk a flood on moving day! Contact our expert team via our online contact form or call (530) 658-0972 right now for a professional pre-purchase inspection.
1. Inspecting the Water Heater: Age and Performance
The water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in any home. Replacing one unexpectedly can cost thousands, so it pays to look closely.
Check the Date: Locate the manufacturer's sticker. If the unit is over 10 years old, it’s likely nearing the end of its lifespan.
Look for Corrosion: Check the base of the tank and the intake valves for rust or "crusty" mineral buildup.
Listen Closely: If the heater is running, listen for banging or popping sounds. This often indicates sediment buildup, which reduces efficiency and can lead to tank failure.
2. Spotting the Signs of Pipe Corrosion
Depending on when your Carmichael home was built, you might have copper, galvanized steel, or even older clay pipes. Corrosion isn't always obvious, but there are a few "tells" to look for:
Discolored Water: Turn on the bathtub faucet. If the water has a brown or yellow tint for the first few seconds, the pipes are likely rusting from the inside out.
Low Water Pressure: Corroded pipes often have significant internal buildup, which restricts water flow throughout the house.
Stains and Smells: Check under sinks for green or white powdery deposits on pipe joints, or a musty smell that suggests a slow, hidden leak.
If you suspect the home has older piping material, it may be time to look into our professional repiping services to ensure your water stays clean and your home stays dry.
3. Verifying Safe Water Pressure
High water pressure might feel great in the shower, but it’s a silent killer for your plumbing fixtures. Anything consistently over 80 PSI can cause pipe bursts, ruin your dishwasher, and wear out faucet seals prematurely.
The DIY Test: You can buy a simple pressure gauge at a local hardware store and hook it up to an outdoor hose bib.
The "Hammer" Test: When you turn off a faucet quickly, do you hear a loud "thud" in the walls? This "water hammer" is often a sign that the pressure is too high or the pressure-reducing valve (PRV) has failed.
