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If you’ve never booked a plumbing inspection before, you might not be sure what to expect. What exactly are plumbers looking for, and why does it matter if everything seems to be working fine? A thorough inspection is like a health checkup for your home’s water and drainage systems, catching small issues before they turn into expensive emergencies.

Why a plumbing inspection is worth it

Many leaks and defects hide behind walls, under floors, or in the yard where you can’t see them. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense program, household leaks can waste more than 10,000 gallons of water per home every year – enough for hundreds of loads of laundry. That’s a powerful reason to schedule a $70 whole-home plumbing inspection with a licensed plumber instead of waiting for a visible problem.

During a visit, your plumber doesn’t just glance at fixtures. They follow a structured plumbing inspection checklist that covers your entire system, from the water meter to the sewer line.

Key areas a plumbing inspection covers

1. Water supply and shut-off valves

Your plumber will:

• Locate and test the main shut-off valve
• Check individual fixture shut-offs under sinks and behind toilets
• Look for signs of corrosion, mineral buildup, or slow leaks

If a sudden leak happens, a working shut-off can be the difference between a quick mop-up and major water damage. When there are signs of hidden issues behind walls or under slabs, your plumber may also recommend a professional leak detection service to pinpoint the exact source.

2. Fixtures, taps, and toilets

A full plumbing inspection always includes sinks, showers, tubs, and toilets. The plumber checks:

• Water pressure and flow
• Drips, stains, and loose fittings
• Toilet flushing performance and tank components

Even a slow-dripping faucet or running toilet can send your water bill soaring over time.

3. Drains and sewer line

Slow drains are more than an annoyance. During the inspection, the technician may use a sewer/main line camera inspection to:

• Look for partial blockages from grease, hair, or debris
• Spot root intrusion in older sewer lines
• Identify pipe sagging, cracks, or misaligned joints

If the inspection uncovers stubborn clogs, rooter drain clearing can restore proper flow before those small issues turn into messy backups.

4. Water heater and appliances

Your water heater works hard every day. As part of this visit, the plumber will:

• Check age, capacity, and installation
• Inspect for rust, leaks, or gas and electrical issues
• Verify temperature settings and safety valves

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting most household water heaters to around 120°F to balance safety, comfort, and energy efficiency.

They may also look over dishwashers, washing machines, and other water-using appliances for hidden leaks and worn hoses. If your plumber finds serious wear or safety concerns, they may recommend water heater repair in St. Louis to restore safe, reliable hot water.

How often should you schedule a plumbing inspection?

For most homes, a routine plumbing inspection every one to two years is a smart preventive step. Older houses, homes with large trees near sewer lines, or properties that have had previous leaks or backups may benefit from annual visits.

Pairing a yearly inspection with other home maintenance – like roof or HVAC servicing – makes it easier to remember and budget for. State agencies such as the Missouri Department of Natural Resources also encourage homeowners to repair leaks promptly to conserve water and protect local supplies. The small upfront cost of a plumbing inspection is minor compared to emergency call-outs, water damage repairs, or replacing damaged flooring and cabinets.

Ready to protect your home?

If you’re noticing higher water bills, slow drains, or just haven’t had a plumbing inspection in a few years, now is the perfect time to schedule one. A professional, whole-home plumbing inspection will give you a clear picture of your system’s condition and a prioritized list of any repairs. Contact Beis Plumbing team today to book your inspection and keep your home safe, efficient, and leak-free.

When temperatures plunge, learning how to winterize a toilet can save you from frozen pipes, leaks, and costly water damage, especially if you’re leaving home for a winter getaway. Taking the time to prep your toilet now can help you avoid emergency calls in the middle of a snowstorm, insurance claims, and long-term issues like mold or warped flooring. The process is simple, doesn’t require advanced tools, and can be done in less than an afternoon for most homes.

Why winterizing your toilet matters

A single burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in repairs, and frozen pipes impact over 250,000 homes in the U.S. each year, leading to billions in damage. That’s why knowing how to winterize a toilet isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential home protection. Winterizing also gives you peace of mind if you own a vacation property or plan to be away from home for more than a few days. By reducing the amount of water in your fixtures, you’re limiting the chance of hidden damage that may not be discovered until months later.

Supplies you’ll need

Before you begin, gather a few basics so the process goes smoothly:

• Adjustable wrench
• Plunger or shop vac
• Non-toxic RV antifreeze (never automotive)
• Towels or rags
• Small cup or sponge

Having these ready makes each step of how to winterize a toilet quicker and less messy.

How to winterize a toilet step-by-step

1. Shut off the water supply.
   Turn the valve behind or near the toilet clockwise until it stops. This prevents new water from entering the tank and bowl.
2. Flush and drain the tank.
   Flush until the tank is mostly empty. Hold the handle down to remove as much water as possible, then sponge or shop-vac out the remainder.
3. Remove water from the bowl.
   Use a cup or shop vac to lower the water level in the bowl. Leave a small amount to create a seal against sewer gases.
4. Add RV antifreeze.
   Pour RV antifreeze into the tank and bowl. This is one of the most important parts of how to winterize a toilet because it helps protect any remaining water from freezing and expanding.
5. Protect nearby plumbing.
   Open vanity doors so warm air can reach pipes and keep the home at least 55°F. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that pipes are most at risk of freezing when temperatures drop below about 20°F. [2] For a broader winter checklist, you can also follow the American Red Cross guidance on frozen pipes.

Extra tips for bathrooms at higher risk

Some bathrooms need more attention when you’re deciding how to winterize a toilet:

• Toilets on exterior walls or above unheated garages
• Guest baths that rarely get used
• Vacant homes, rentals, or cabins

In these areas, consider additional pipe insulation, shutting off the home’s main water valve, and scheduling a whole-home plumbing inspection before you leave.

When to call a professional

If you’re not comfortable handling how to winterize a toilet on your own—or if you suspect a pipe has already frozen—it’s time to bring in an expert. Contact Beis licensed plumbers now to inspect your system, protect vulnerable toilets and pipes, and handle any needed repairs before winter hits.

We can also help you boost efficiency with water quality upgrades and general plumbing maintenance, so your plumbing is in great shape after winter is over.