Post-Holiday Plumbing Maintenance for SoCal
The holidays are over, and January 2026 is the perfect time to tackle the extra wear and tear your plumbing endured — grease from big meals, food scraps in the disposal, and more guests taking showers. Southern California’s hard water speeds up sediment buildup, and occasional chilly nights in inland spots like Corona or Riverside can stress exposed pipes.
This straightforward checklist from Drain Champions—your local 24/7 plumbing experts—helps you catch small issues early and avoid expensive emergencies all year.
1. Inspect for “Silent” Leaks
Even a tiny drip wastes hundreds of gallons per month, raises bills, and can lead to mold or structural damage.
Easy DIY checks:
- Food Coloring Test → Add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank. If color appears in the bowl within 15 minutes without flushing, you have a leaking flapper.
- Under-Sink Check → Look for moisture, mold, or warped (“puckering”) cabinet bases in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Monitor the Meter → Record your water meter reading, avoid using water for two hours, then check again. Any movement means a hidden leak.
2. Winterize Your Exposed Pipes
Freezes are rare in SoCal, but cold snaps can still burst pipes in unheated areas.
Quick steps:
- Insulate → Slip foam sleeves over pipes in garages, attics, crawl spaces, or exterior walls.
- Disconnect Hoses → Remove garden hoses from outdoor spigots to prevent trapped water from freezing and damaging the fixture.
3. Give Your Water Heater a “New Year Flush”
Hard water makes sediment the top cause of premature water heater failure—it cuts efficiency and shortens lifespan.
Simple maintenance:
- Flush the Tank → Drain a few gallons from the bottom valve to clear sediment (check your model’s guide or call a pro).
- Check the Temperature → Set to 120°F for energy savings and scald prevention.
4. Refresh Your Drains & Sewers
Holiday grease and scraps often solidify in January, causing slow drains or backups.
Safe clearing methods:
- Boiling Water Rinse → Pour boiling water down the kitchen drain weekly to melt leftover fats (safe for metal pipes; skip if you have PVC).
- Enzymatic Cleaners → Choose natural enzyme-based products over harsh chemicals to break down organic matter without damaging pipes.
- Professional Rooter Service → For stubborn slow drains, a pro rooter or hydro-jetting removes roots, grease, and debris completely.
5. Know Your Main Shut-Off Valve
In a burst pipe or major leak, every second counts—knowing this can save thousands in water damage.
Action item:
- Locate & Test → Find the main valve (often near the street, in the garage, or where the line enters the house), test that it turns freely, and teach everyone in the home.
When to Call the Champions
DIY prevention is smart, but some problems need professional tools and experience. Drain Champions provides same-day service and true 24/7 emergency response across Southern California.
Contact us immediately if you notice:
- Sewer Line Issues → Backups, odors, or wet yard spots—we use camera inspections for fast, accurate diagnosis.
- Low Water Pressure → Often signals a major leak or failing regulator.
- Trenchless Repairs → We fix sewer lines with minimal digging, preserving your landscaping and driveway.
Knock out this checklist now for a smoother, stress-free 2026. If you’d like a full professional inspection or help with any step, Drain Champions is ready 24/7—call or schedule online today!