If hot water pipes are covered with insulation, inspect them to ensure that the insulation is secure and in good condition (annually). Replace or reposition loose insulation to cover any open areas.

Have well water analyzed for bacterial contamination and chemical pollution (every three to five years), or more often if an unusual taste or odor problem occurs.

Clean aerators on faucets (every three or four months, depending upon water hardness). You may need to use a rust or scale remover to return them to normal condition, or have them replaced.

Repair leaking faucets (as needed). If washer type, replace faucet washer and check washer seat for roughening; smooth if needed. If washerless, consult an installation manual.

Turn off supply line to the outside faucets (sill cocks) and drain lines (late fall), unless they are frost-free hydrants and water lines are below the frost line or located in a heated space.

Remove garden hoses from all outside faucets (late fall). If any hose, even freeze-proof reinforced hose, is left connected to a sill cock (frost-free or regular), the faucet will not drain properly. It could freeze and burst during winter months.

Inspect distribution and drainage pipes for leakage or signs of weakness (annually). Look for rust, corrosion, greenish deposits, and mineral deposits around fittings, valves, household fixtures and along the length of the pipe.

Check the bathroom stool for leaks by adding a small amount of red food coloring to the tank (annually). Check the toilet bowl later. If the toilet bowl water is colored red, water is seeping through from the tank.

Inspect the septic tank (every three to five years or in the event of malfunction) by removing earth from the top of the tank and the lid or inspection hatch. When the depth of scum and solids exceeds one-half the liquid depth of the tank, it should be cleaned. Also, the outlet baffle should be visually inspected for deterioration. With age, baffles may wear or corrode to the point that they can no longer prevent floating scum from overflowing the tank and clogging the filter field.

As a rule, septic tanks should be inspected and pumped every three to five years to help prevent costly replacement of the filter field. If a garbage disposal is connected to the septic tank system, it may require more frequent cleaning. Do not depend on chemical compounds or septic tank cleaners poured down drains to eliminate the need for periodic cleaning.

Inspect the leaching field of the septic system to determine if failure has occurred (in the spring). Strong odors or frequent wet spots may be an indication that the soil field is unable to absorb the septic tank effluent. Consult a professional if the condition persists or reoccurs regularly.

If a grease trap exists in the waste disposal line of a septic system, inspect it for buildup (annually) and clean as needed.

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