Categories Plumber

What Does A Plumbing Inspection Look At?

What Does A Plumbing Inspection Look At

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.

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Categories Plumber

How to winterize a camper! Plumbing tips and more!

how to winterize a camper

If you are wondering how to winterize a camper without damaging your plumbing, you are already ahead of many RV owners. A little prep now can protect your rig and help you avoid costly repairs when camping season returns.

Why learning how to winterize a camper matters

When water freezes inside pipes it expands, builds pressure, and can crack lines or water heaters. Officials estimate that about a quarter-million homes are damaged each winter by frozen water pipes, and even a tiny crack can leak hundreds of gallons a day. Michigan’s guide to preventing frozen pipes at home shows how quickly that damage adds up.

That same freezing pressure can devastate your camper’s plumbing. Learning how to winterize a camper helps protect:

  • Water tanks and supply lines
  • Faucets, the water pump, and the water heater

If you have ever dealt with frozen pipe repair, you already know how quickly winter damage can add up.

Step-by-step: how to winterize a camper plumbing system

1. Drain every drop of water

The first rule of how to winterize a camper is simple: water out, then antifreeze in. Turn off and cool the water heater, open the low-point drains and fresh-water tank, open every faucet, and flush the toilet until water stops.

Let everything drain so there is no standing water in your lines. To understand why this matters, review our guide on how to avoid needing a burst pipe repair.

For your house plumbing, the U.S. Department of Energy offers tips for avoiding frozen pipes and heat loss in winter that match the steps you are taking on your camper.

2. Bypass and empty the water heater

Set the water-heater bypass so you do not waste antifreeze, then remove the drain plug or anode rod, let the tank empty, and leave the plug out until spring.

If your home water heater needs attention, our team that handles water heater repair in St. Louis can keep your system running efficiently through the cold months.

3. Pump RV antifreeze through the system

Now comes the most important part of how to winterize a camper safely: replacing any remaining water with RV antifreeze.

  • Use the winterizing pickup tube or a pump-converter kit to draw antifreeze from the jug.
  • Turn on the pump and open each faucet one at a time until you see solid pink fluid.
  • Remember fixtures such as outside showers or washer hookups.
  • Pour a cup of antifreeze into each drain and a few cups into the toilet to protect the tanks and seals.

Winterization is also a good time to think about water quality. The CDC offers guidance on keeping RV water systems clean and safe to drink, from how you fill your tank to what comes out of the tap.

Beyond plumbing: how to winterize a camper inside and out

A solid plumbing job is only part of how to winterize a camper. Remove liquids that can freeze, seal windows and roof vents, and use a breathable RV cover if you have one. To protect your home as well, read our basement flooding prevention guide.

Get help winterizing your camper

If this process feels overwhelming or you are short on time, you do not have to handle how to winterize a camper alone. Our RV maintenance specialists can manage the full winterization process.

If you find leaks or other issues while you work, our plumbing repair services near Eureka, Missouri are ready to help. Contact Beis Plumbing today to schedule your professional camper winterization before the first hard freeze hits!

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Categories Plumber

How to Winterize A Toilet

How to Winterize A Toilet

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.

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Categories Plumber

Winterize Your RV with These 7 Tips

Winterize Your RV with These 7 Tips

If you love cold-weather camping, you need a simple game plan to winterize rv systems before overnight temps dip below freezing. A little prep protects your pipes and keeps winter trips stress-free.

Why You Should winterize rv Before the First Freeze

When water freezes, it expands and can crack fittings, valves, and water heaters. One RV insurance guide estimates that failing to winterize can lead to $3,000 or more in repairs from burst pipes and water damage. If you don’t winterize rv plumbing, even one hard freeze can get expensive.

Step 1: Drain and Bypass Your Water Heater

Turn off power or gas to the water heater and let it cool. Open the drain plug, relieve pressure, and bypass the heater so you’re not pumping RV antifreeze into the tank. If cold weather has already damaged your heater, Beis Plumbing’s water heater repair services can get your hot water back safely.

Step 2: Purge and Protect Your Freshwater System

To truly winterize rv plumbing:

  • Drain the fresh tank, low-point lines, and water pump
  • Blow out lines with compressed air using an RV-safe adapter
  • Pump non-toxic RV antifreeze through every faucet until it runs pink

The U.S. Department of Energy notes that exposed pipes are especially vulnerable to freezing and should be insulated in unheated spaces. That applies to under-body RV lines, too.

Step 3: Don’t Forget Drains, Traps, and Tanks

Even after you drain the lines, water can sit in P-traps and holding tanks. To winterize rv completely:

  • Dump black and gray tanks, then rinse
  • Add a quart of RV antifreeze to each drain and toilet bowl
  • Pour a little antifreeze into each tank to protect the valves

If a surprise freeze cracks a supply line, Beis Plumbing’s frozen & burst pipe repair team handles the mess so you don’t have to.

Step 4: Insulate and Heat Vulnerable Lines

The American Red Cross recommends insulating pipes in crawl spaces, attics, and exterior walls to prevent freezing. For RVs, that means:

  • Foam sleeves on exposed lines
  • Heat tape where safe and recommended by your RV manufacturer
  • Skirting or wind blocks around the undercarriage

These same techniques help protect your home’s supply lines, and Beis Plumbing’s water line repair experts can fix hidden leaks if freezing ever gets ahead of you.

Step 5: Plan for Emergencies

Even with the best plan to winterize rv plumbing, things happen—a heater fails or a cold front is harsher than forecast. Keep an emergency kit that includes:

  • A small space heater rated for indoor use
  • Extra RV antifreeze
  • A wet/dry vac and towels
  • The number for Beis Plumbing bookmarked on your phone

If a pipe bursts or a fitting lets go, their emergency plumbing services are available to protect your home while you deal with the RV.

Get Help Winterizing from Beis Plumbing

Whether you need advice on how to winterize rv systems or repair damage after a cold snap, Beis Plumbing is your local partner for frozen pipes, water heaters, and more. Contact Beis Plumbing now, and let their licensed plumbers help you winterize rv plumbing the right way—so you can enjoy winter camping without worrying about leaks, bursts, or costly repairs.

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Categories Plumber

How to Avoid Needing a Burst Pipe Repair

burst pipe repair

A burst pipe can cause significant water damage, leading to costly repairs and major disruptions in your home. Preventing the need for burst pipe repair is far easier and less expensive than dealing with the aftermath. By taking proactive steps, you can protect your plumbing system and avoid unexpected emergencies.

What Causes a Pipe to Burst?

Understanding the common causes of burst pipes can help you prevent them:

  • Freezing Temperatures – Water expands when it freezes, creating pressure that can rupture pipes.
  • Corrosion and Aging Pipes – Old, worn-out pipes are more susceptible to cracks and breaks.
  • High Water Pressure – Excessive pressure can weaken pipes over time.
  • Clogs and Blockages – Built-up debris can increase pressure inside the pipes.
  • Poor Installation – Improperly installed pipes are more likely to fail.

According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), water damage from burst pipes accounts for nearly 30% of all home insurance claims. (Source)

Tips to Prevent Burst Pipes

Taking preventive measures can help you avoid an emergency burst pipe repair situation. Here’s how:

1. Insulate Your Pipes

Exposed pipes, especially in basements, attics, and crawl spaces, should be wrapped in pipe insulation to prevent freezing. This is especially important in colder climates.

2. Maintain a Consistent Indoor Temperature

Keeping your thermostat set to at least 55°F (13°C), even when you’re away, helps prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.

3. Let Faucets Drip in Cold Weather

On extremely cold nights, allowing a slight drip from faucets connected to exposed pipes can relieve pressure and reduce the risk of freezing.

4. Monitor Water Pressure

High water pressure can stress your pipes. Use a pressure gauge to ensure your home’s water pressure stays between 40-60 psi. If it’s too high, consider installing a pressure regulator.

5. Keep Cabinets Open in Winter

For pipes located under sinks, opening cabinet doors allows warm air to circulate, preventing freezing.

6. Fix Leaks and Weak Spots Immediately

A small leak can turn into a major break if left unchecked. If you notice damp spots, strange noises, or reduced water pressure, have a plumber inspect your pipes right away.

What to Do If a Pipe Bursts

Even with precautions, accidents can still happen. If you experience a burst pipe, take these immediate steps:

  1. Shut Off the Water – Locate your main water valve and turn it off to stop further flooding.
  2. Turn Off Electricity in Affected Areas – If water is near electrical outlets or appliances, shut off power to avoid hazards.
  3. Drain the Faucets – Open all faucets to release any remaining water in the system.
  4. Call a Professional Plumber – A licensed plumber can perform burst pipe repair and assess the extent of the damage.

Trust Beis Plumbing for Burst Pipe Prevention and Repairs

At Beis Plumbing, we specialize in preventing and fixing burst pipes. Whether you need insulation, pressure adjustments, or emergency burst pipe repair, our team is ready to help.

Don’t wait for a disaster—schedule a plumbing inspection with Beis Plumbing today!

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