Year-End Plumbing Maintenance Checklist: December 2025

Year-End Plumbing Maintenance Checklist: December 2025 Home Inspection Guide

Introduction: Why Year-End Plumbing Maintenance Matters

As we head into the final month of 2025, most homeowners are focused on holiday decorations, family gatherings, and year-end tasks. However, one critical responsibility often gets overlooked: year-end plumbing maintenance. Your home's plumbing system works tirelessly throughout the year, and the transition from fall into winter is the perfect time to conduct a thorough inspection before the coldest months arrive.

Year-end plumbing maintenance isn't just about preventing emergencies—it's about protecting one of your home's most critical systems. According to industry data, homeowners who perform regular plumbing inspections catch problems early, avoiding costly emergency repairs that can run $500 to $3,500 or more. Winter is particularly challenging for plumbing systems, with frozen pipes, water heater strain, and increased usage creating the perfect storm for failures.

This comprehensive year-end plumbing checklist will guide you through every essential inspection point, from visible pipe conditions to water heater performance. By dedicating just a few hours to this December plumbing maintenance, you'll enter 2026 with confidence that your plumbing system is in top condition. You'll identify small issues before they become expensive problems, ensure your water heater can handle winter demand, and document any repairs needed for the new year. Whether you're a first-time homeowner or have owned your property for decades, this end of year home inspection guide provides the step-by-step framework you need to maintain your plumbing system properly.

Quick Reference Summary: Top Priority Items

Before diving into the detailed checklist, here's what every homeowner should focus on during their year-end plumbing maintenance. These are the most critical items that directly impact your home's safety and comfort:

Top 5 Most Important Year-End Plumbing Checks:

• Water Heater Inspection: Your water heater works hardest during winter. Check for leaks, listen for unusual noises, and verify the temperature setting is appropriate. A failing water heater in January is an expensive emergency.
• Pipe Condition Assessment: Walk through your home and visually inspect all accessible pipes for corrosion, leaks, or damage. Even small drips indicate larger problems developing.
• Water Pressure Testing: Low water pressure can indicate hidden leaks or mineral buildup. High water pressure can damage fixtures and cause leaks.
• Under-Sink Cabinet Inspection: These areas hide the most common leak sources. Check for moisture, corrosion, and connection integrity in every cabinet with plumbing.
• Drain Flushing: Clear accumulated debris from your drains before winter. Slow drains now will become backups later when you need them most.

Additional Important Items:

• Test all faucets, toilets, and showers for proper function
• Check water shut-off valve accessibility and functionality
• Inspect outdoor faucets and prepare them for freezing temperatures
• Review septic system status if applicable
• Document all findings for insurance and contractor reference

This quick reference list ensures you don't miss critical items. Even if you only complete these five priority checks, you'll significantly reduce your risk of winter plumbing emergencies.

Complete Year-End Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

Section 1: Inspect All Visible Pipes for Leaks & Corrosion

The first and most fundamental step in your year-end plumbing maintenance is a thorough visual inspection of all accessible pipes throughout your home. This inspection takes 30-45 minutes but can reveal problems that would otherwise go unnoticed until they cause damage.

Basement and Crawlspace Inspection:

• [ ] Walk through your basement or crawlspace with a flashlight
• [ ] Inspect all exposed water supply pipes for corrosion, rust, or discoloration
• [ ] Look for green or blue staining on copper pipes (indicates corrosion)
• [ ] Check for white mineral deposits on pipes (hard water buildup)
• [ ] Examine all visible drain pipes for cracks, splits, or damage
• [ ] Look for water stains on joists or beams above pipes (evidence of past leaks)
• [ ] Check that all pipes are properly supported and not sagging
• [ ] Note any areas where pipes appear to have been previously repaired

Why This Matters: Corroded pipes are the leading cause of water damage in homes over 30 years old. Copper pipes can develop pinhole leaks that slowly damage your home's structure. PVC pipes can crack from age or temperature changes. Catching these issues during your December inspection means you can schedule repairs on your timeline, not in an emergency situation.

Attic and Upper Floor Inspection:

• [ ] If accessible, inspect pipes running through your attic
• [ ] Check for proper insulation on pipes (critical for preventing freezing)
• [ ] Look for evidence of leaks on attic framing or insulation
• [ ] Verify that no pipes are kinked or bent
• [ ] Check that pipes are secured properly and not moving

Kitchen and Bathroom Wall Inspection:

• [ ] Listen for water sounds when no water is running (indicates hidden leaks)
• [ ] Check for water stains on walls or ceilings
• [ ] Feel behind sinks for moisture (indicates wall leaks)
• [ ] Look for soft spots in walls or floors (sign of water damage)
• [ ] Check grout lines around tubs and showers for gaps or deterioration

Exterior Pipe Inspection:

• [ ] Check outdoor faucets for leaks
• [ ] Inspect hose connections for corrosion or damage
• [ ] Look for water pooling near foundation (indicates underground leaks)
• [ ] Check that outdoor faucets have shut-off valves
• [ ] Verify outdoor pipes are properly draining

Documentation Step: Take photos of any concerning areas. Use your smartphone to document pipe conditions, corrosion, or staining. These photos will be valuable when discussing issues with a professional plumber and help you remember specific locations.

Section 2: Test Water Pressure & Check for Weak Flow

Water pressure problems are often overlooked but indicate serious underlying issues. Testing your water pressure takes just 10-15 minutes and requires an inexpensive pressure gauge (available at any hardware store for $10-20).

Water Pressure Testing Steps:

• [ ] Turn off all water-using appliances (washing machine, dishwasher, etc.)
• [ ] Attach a pressure gauge to an outdoor faucet or washing machine valve
• [ ] Turn on the valve fully and read the pressure gauge
• [ ] Record the reading (normal is 40-60 PSI; 80+ PSI is too high)
• [ ] Repeat the test at different locations (kitchen, bathroom, basement)
• [ ] Check pressure readings at different times of day
• [ ] Note any variation between morning and evening readings

Low Water Pressure Investigation:

If you're experiencing low water pressure (below 40 PSI), investigate these common causes:

• [ ] Check your water meter for signs of leaks
• [ ] Look for water pooling in your yard or driveway
• [ ] Verify the main water shut-off valve is fully open
• [ ] Check aerators on faucets (may be clogged with mineral deposits)
• [ ] Test cold water pressure separately from hot water
• [ ] Ask neighbors if they're experiencing similar issues (municipal problem)
• [ ] Review your water bill for unusual usage (indicates hidden leak)

High Water Pressure Investigation:

If pressure exceeds 80 PSI, your system has excessive pressure that can damage fixtures:

• [ ] Look for leaks at faucet connections
• [ ] Check for dripping faucets or running toilets
• [ ] Listen for water hammer (loud banging in pipes)
• [ ] Verify your pressure regulator is functioning properly
• [ ] Note any visible leaks under sinks or in walls

Why This Matters: High water pressure damages fixtures, seals, and connections, leading to leaks throughout your home. Low water pressure may indicate a leak you can't see—potentially costing thousands in water damage. A hidden slab leak under your home's foundation can waste 10,000+ gallons monthly without your knowledge.

Testing Individual Fixtures:

• [ ] Turn on each faucet and observe water flow
• [ ] Check that all faucets have similar pressure (inconsistency indicates local problems)
• [ ] Flush each toilet and listen for proper refill (should complete in 3-5 minutes)
• [ ] Run shower at full pressure and check for weak spots
• [ ] Test washing machine fill speed
• [ ] Check kitchen sink sprayer functionality

Section 3: Examine Under-Sink Cabinets & Connections

Under-sink cabinets are where most residential leaks originate. These dark, damp spaces hide problems until significant damage occurs. This inspection is critical and should take 20-30 minutes per bathroom and kitchen.

Kitchen Sink Cabinet Inspection:

• [ ] Remove everything from under the sink
• [ ] Look for water stains, moisture, or mold on cabinet surfaces
• [ ] Feel the bottom of the cabinet for soft spots or water damage
• [ ] Inspect the P-trap (curved pipe under the sink) for corrosion or leaks
• [ ] Check all connection points where pipes meet (look for drips or corrosion)
• [ ] Examine the garbage disposal mounting (if present) for leaks
• [ ] Look at the supply lines (hot and cold water lines) for cracks or bulging
• [ ] Check for mineral deposits or white buildup (indicates slow leaks)
• [ ] Verify the shut-off valves under the sink operate smoothly
• [ ] Look for any standing water or dampness

Bathroom Sink Cabinet Inspection:

• [ ] Remove all items from under the sink
• [ ] Inspect for the same signs of water damage
• [ ] Check vanity connections where pipes enter the wall
• [ ] Look for leaks around faucet base
• [ ] Verify supply line connections are tight
• [ ] Check for corrosion on metal P-traps
• [ ] Inspect caulking around sink basin edge

Toilet Connection Inspection:

• [ ] Check the water supply line connection to toilet
• [ ] Look for leaks at the shutoff valve
• [ ] Inspect the rubber fill valve inside the tank
• [ ] Check for water pooling around toilet base
• [ ] Verify the wax ring seal is intact (no water damage around base)

Water Heater Area Inspection:

• [ ] Check the space around your water heater for water stains
• [ ] Look for corrosion on the tank or connections
• [ ] Inspect supply and drain lines for leaks
• [ ] Check the temperature and pressure relief valve
• [ ] Look for mineral deposits around the base
• [ ] Verify the drain pan (if present) is clear and functional

Why This Matters: Water damage from under-sink leaks costs homeowners an average of $2,000-$5,000 to repair. These leaks often go unnoticed for months because they're hidden from view. By catching them during your December inspection, you avoid catastrophic damage to cabinets, flooring, and subflooring.

Connection Tightening:

• [ ] Use an adjustable wrench to gently tighten all visible connections
• [ ] Don't overtighten (can damage fittings)
• [ ] Check for leaks after tightening
• [ ] If leaks persist, the fitting may need replacement

Section 4: Check Water Heater Condition & Temperature

Your water heater works overtime during winter months. A comprehensive water heater inspection during December ensures it can handle the increased demand without failing during the coldest months. This inspection takes 15-20 minutes and is one of the most important steps in your year-end plumbing maintenance.

Water Heater Visual Inspection:

• [ ] Check the tank exterior for rust, corrosion, or discoloration
• [ ] Look for water pooling or staining around the base
• [ ] Inspect all connections for leaks or mineral deposits
• [ ] Check that the temperature and pressure relief valve is accessible
• [ ] Verify the drain valve at the bottom is not leaking
• [ ] Look for signs of previous repairs or patches
• [ ] Check that the tank is properly secured and not moving
• [ ] Inspect the anode rod access point (if visible)

Water Heater Temperature and Pressure Testing:

• [ ] Set the thermostat to 120°F (optimal for safety and efficiency)
• [ ] Wait 30 minutes for temperature to stabilize
• [ ] Use a thermometer to verify hot water temperature
• [ ] Check that hot water reaches all fixtures within 30 seconds
• [ ] Listen for unusual noises (rumbling, popping, or knocking)
• [ ] Test the temperature and pressure relief valve (should release a small amount of water when tested)

Why This Matters: Water heaters typically last 8-12 years. If yours is approaching this age, failure during winter is likely. A new water heater costs $800-$3,000 installed. Identifying a failing unit during December allows you to schedule replacement at your convenience rather than facing an emergency in January when you have no hot water.

Flushing Your Water Heater:

• [ ] Turn off the power (electric) or gas (gas heater)
• [ ] Turn off the cold water supply to the heater
• [ ] Attach a garden hose to the drain valve
• [ ] Direct the hose to a floor drain or outside
• [ ] Open the drain valve and let water flow for 5-10 minutes
• [ ] Close the drain valve
• [ ] Turn the cold water supply back on
• [ ] Turn power/gas back on
• [ ] Check that hot water is restored

Note: If you're uncomfortable performing this maintenance, call a professional. Improper water heater maintenance can be dangerous.

Energy Efficiency Check:

• [ ] Feel the tank exterior (should be warm but not hot)
• [ ] Check the insulation blanket (if present) for damage
• [ ] Verify the thermostat is set correctly
• [ ] Look for heat loss (water heater should maintain temperature)

Section 5: Flush Drains & Test All Fixtures

Drains accumulate debris throughout the year—hair, soap buildup, grease, and mineral deposits. Flushing drains before winter ensures they can handle increased usage without backing up. This maintenance step takes 30-45 minutes and prevents the most common winter plumbing emergency: clogged drains.

Drain Flushing Process:

• [ ] Remove visible debris from drain openings
• [ ] Pour boiling water down each drain (kills bacteria and loosens buildup)
• [ ] Wait 15 minutes
• [ ] Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain
• [ ] Follow with 1 cup white vinegar (will fizz)
• [ ] Cover the drain for 30 minutes
• [ ] Flush with hot water
• [ ] Repeat for all drains (kitchen, bathroom sinks, showers, tubs)

Plunger Testing:

• [ ] Use a plunger on each drain to dislodge trapped debris
• [ ] Fill the sink with water
• [ ] Place plunger over drain and pump vigorously 15-20 times
• [ ] Check water drains quickly
• [ ] Repeat if drainage is slow

Fixture Testing:

• [ ] Turn on every faucet in your home
• [ ] Check hot and cold water flow separately
• [ ] Verify water drains completely without pooling
• [ ] Test all showers and tub drains
• [ ] Check that water drains within 30 seconds
• [ ] Listen for unusual gurgling or sounds
• [ ] Look for water pooling in tubs or showers

Toilet Testing:

• [ ] Flush each toilet in your home
• [ ] Verify water drains completely
• [ ] Check that the tank refills properly (3-5 minutes)
• [ ] Listen for continuous running (indicates leak)
• [ ] Look for water pooling around the base
• [ ] Test multiple flushes in succession
• [ ] Verify the handle operates smoothly

Why This Matters: Clogged drains are the #1 plumbing emergency, accounting for 35% of emergency calls. A main line clog can cost $300-$500 to clear. By flushing drains now, you prevent backups that could damage your entire plumbing system.

Garbage Disposal Testing (if applicable):

• [ ] Fill sink with water
• [ ] Turn on the disposal
• [ ] Gradually feed small food scraps
• [ ] Listen for normal grinding sound
• [ ] Run cold water while operating
• [ ] Turn off and verify complete drainage
• [ ] Check for leaks around the mounting

Section 6: Review Septic System or Sewer Connection Status

If your home uses a septic system or has a sewer connection, this component requires specific attention during your year-end plumbing maintenance. These systems are often forgotten until they fail, resulting in expensive repairs.

Septic System Inspection (if applicable):

• [ ] Locate your septic tank (note the location for future reference)
• [ ] Check for green, lush grass over the tank area (indicates leaking)
• [ ] Look for wet spots or pooling water near the tank
• [ ] Verify the drain field area is not soggy or wet
• [ ] Check that no heavy vehicles have driven over the tank
• [ ] Verify no trees with invasive roots are growing near the system
• [ ] Review your septic maintenance records
• [ ] Note when the tank was last pumped
• [ ] Check for any odors in the yard (indicates problems)

Sewer Connection Inspection:

• [ ] Check that your main sewer cleanout is accessible
• [ ] Look for slow drains throughout the house (indicates main line issues)
• [ ] Note any sewage odors inside or outside
• [ ] Check for water pooling in the yard
• [ ] Look for cracks in your foundation (can indicate sewer line problems)
• [ ] Note any patches in your yard (may indicate previous repairs)

Why This Matters: Sewer line repairs cost $1,000-$8,000 depending on severity and location. Root intrusion is a common winter problem because wet soil allows roots to penetrate cracks. Identifying issues now allows you to plan repairs rather than face an emergency.

Documentation:

• [ ] Note the date of last septic pumping
• [ ] Record the location of your main cleanout
• [ ] Document any previous repairs or issues
• [ ] Take photos of the septic system area
• [ ] Note any recurring drainage problems

Section 7: Document Issues for New Year Repairs

The final step in your year-end plumbing maintenance is thorough documentation. This creates a clear action plan for 2026 and helps you prioritize repairs based on urgency.

Documentation Process:

• [ ] Create a spreadsheet or document listing all findings
• [ ] Categorize issues as: Urgent (needs immediate attention), Important (should be fixed soon), or Minor (can wait)
• [ ] Include photos of each problem area
• [ ] Note the location of each issue
• [ ] Estimate the severity (small leak vs. major problem)
• [ ] Record the date of your inspection
• [ ] Note any sounds or smells associated with problems

Urgent Issues (Address Before January 1):

• Active leaks causing water damage
• No hot water or failing water heater
• Burst pipes or significant water loss
• Sewage backups or sewer line problems
• Water pressure issues affecting the entire home

Important Issues (Schedule for January-March):

• Corroded pipes that aren't actively leaking
• Slow drains that aren't completely blocked
• Minor leaks under sinks
• Water heater showing age but still functioning
• Fixture repairs needed

Minor Issues (Schedule for Spring/Summer):

• Cosmetic pipe corrosion
• Fixture upgrades
• Preventive maintenance
• Efficiency improvements

Getting Quotes:

• [ ] Contact 3 licensed plumbers for estimates on major repairs
• [ ] Provide them with your documentation and photos
• [ ] Compare pricing and credentials
• [ ] Check references and online reviews
• [ ] Schedule repairs before peak winter season (December-February)
• [ ] Budget for emergency repairs that may arise

Frequency Recommendations: When to Perform Each Check

Understanding how often to perform plumbing maintenance ensures your system stays in top condition year-round. Different checks require different frequencies based on their importance and how quickly problems develop.

Daily Checks (Takes 2 minutes):

While not technically maintenance, these daily observations help catch problems early:

• Listen for water running when no fixtures are in use (indicates leaks)
• Check for any water pooling in bathrooms or kitchen
• Notice any changes in water pressure
• Observe water color or clarity (discoloration indicates problems)
• Listen for unusual sounds in pipes (banging, gurgling, whistling)

Weekly Checks (Takes 10 minutes):

Perform these checks every week to catch developing problems:

• Inspect under-sink cabinets for moisture or leaks
• Check toilet operation (does it run continuously?)
• Test faucets for drips
• Verify water drains properly from sinks and tubs
• Look for water stains on ceilings or walls

Monthly Checks (Takes 20 minutes):

These more thorough checks should happen monthly:

• Run water pressure test
• Flush all drains
• Check water heater for leaks or unusual noises
• Inspect visible pipes for corrosion
• Test all fixtures for proper operation
• Check for any new water stains or damage

Seasonal Checks (Takes 45 minutes):

Perform comprehensive checks at the start of each season:

Fall (September-October):

• Prepare for winter freezing
• Insulate exposed pipes
• Test water heater capacity
• Clean gutters and downspouts
• Check outdoor faucets

Winter (December-January):

• Complete your year-end plumbing checklist
• Monitor for frozen pipes
• Check for ice dams
• Verify water heater is functioning
• Document any winter-related issues

Spring (March-April):

• Inspect for winter damage
• Check sump pump operation
• Test sewer system after spring thaw
• Inspect foundation for water intrusion
• Check outdoor drainage

Summer (June-July):

• Test outdoor irrigation systems
• Verify outdoor faucets work properly
• Check for leaks in exposed pipes
• Test water heater temperature
• Review water usage

Annual Comprehensive Inspection (Takes 2-3 hours):

Once yearly, perform a complete system inspection:

• Full basement/crawlspace inspection
• Water pressure testing at multiple locations
• Water heater flushing and inspection
• Drain cleaning and testing
• Septic or sewer system review
• Documentation of all findings
• Professional inspection (recommended every 3-5 years)

Professional Inspection Schedule:

• Homes under 10 years old: Every 5 years
• Homes 10-25 years old: Every 3 years
• Homes over 25 years old: Every 1-2 years
• Homes with previous plumbing issues: Annually

Warning Signs to Watch For

Certain signs indicate plumbing problems that require immediate attention. Understanding these warning signs helps you act before minor issues become major emergencies.

Water Damage Indicators:

• Soft spots in floors or walls (indicates water damage inside)
• Discoloration or staining on ceilings or walls
• Peeling paint or wallpaper
• Musty odors (indicates mold from moisture)
• Visible mold or mildew (especially around pipes)
• Warping or buckling of flooring
• Water pooling in basement or crawlspace

Pressure and Flow Problems:

• Sudden decrease in water pressure
• No hot water or weak hot water flow
• Water pressure that fluctuates
• Water sputtering from faucets
• Weak shower pressure
• Toilet that won't fill properly

Drain Issues:

• Slow drains that don't improve with plunging
• Gurgling sounds when draining
• Water backing up from multiple drains
• Sewage odors inside or outside the home
• Bubbling or foaming in drains
• Toilet that won't flush or backs up

Pipe and Connection Problems:

• Visible corrosion on pipes (green on copper, rust on steel)
• Leaking pipes or connections
• Water pooling under sinks or around fixtures
• Mineral deposits or white buildup on pipes
• Banging or knocking sounds in pipes (water hammer)
• Hissing sounds from pipes

Water Heater Warning Signs:

• Rusty water from hot taps
• No hot water or insufficient hot water
• Rumbling or popping sounds
• Leaking from the tank
• Water pooling around the base
• Age over 10 years (increased failure risk)
• Discolored water when hot water is first run

Immediate Action Required:

Contact a professional plumber immediately if you notice:

• Active leaks causing water pooling
• No water pressure or very low pressure throughout the home
• Sewage backup or sewage odors
• Burst pipes or water spraying from pipes
• Water heater leaking actively
• Large water stains appearing suddenly
• Mold growth in your home

When to Call Emergency Services:

Call 24/7 emergency plumbing if:

• Pipes are frozen and you have no water
• Sewage is backing up into your home
• Water is actively flooding your home
• You smell gas near plumbing (call gas company instead)
• Major pipe rupture
• Water heater is leaking dangerously

Tools You'll Need for Your Inspection

Performing a comprehensive year-end plumbing inspection requires only basic tools. Most homeowners already have these items, and any missing tools are inexpensive and widely available.

Essential Tools (Under $50 total):

• Flashlight or headlamp ($10-20): For inspecting dark areas like basements and under cabinets. A headlamp is particularly useful because it frees both hands.
• Water pressure gauge ($10-15): Essential for testing water pressure. Available at any hardware store, attaches to outdoor faucets or washing machine valves.
• Adjustable wrench ($8-15): For gently tightening connections. Avoid over-tightening, which can damage fittings.
• Plunger ($5-10): For testing drain function. Have both a cup plunger (for sinks) and a flange plunger (for toilets).
• Thermometer ($5-10): For checking water heater temperature. A basic dial thermometer works fine.

Helpful Additional Tools ($30-60 total):

• Inspection camera or smartphone: For photographing problem areas. Your smartphone camera is likely sufficient.
• Moisture meter ($15-30): For detecting hidden moisture in cabinets and walls. Helpful for identifying problem areas.
• Pipe wrench ($15-25): For loosening stuck connections. Useful if you have older plumbing.
• Garden hose ($10-20): For water heater flushing and testing outdoor connections.
• Bucket ($5-10): For catching water during inspections and testing.

Safety Equipment:

• Safety glasses ($5): Protects eyes from dust and debris
• Work gloves ($5-10): Protects hands when handling pipes or dirty areas
• Respirator or dust mask ($5-10): For dusty basement or crawlspace work

Where to Get These Tools:

All tools are available at:

• Home Depot
• Lowe's
• Ace Hardware
• Local hardware stores
• Amazon
• Walmart

Total investment: $50-100 for a complete inspection toolkit that will last for years.

Conclusion: Taking Action on Your Year-End Plumbing Maintenance

Your year-end plumbing maintenance checklist is now complete. By following this comprehensive guide, you've taken a crucial step toward protecting one of your home's most important systems. The investment of a few hours in December can save thousands of dollars in emergency repairs and water damage during winter months and beyond.

Remember that the most important aspects of year-end plumbing maintenance are:

1. Visual inspection of pipes for corrosion and leaks
2. Water pressure testing to identify hidden problems
3. Under-sink examination where most leaks originate
4. Water heater assessment before it's stressed by winter demand
5. Drain flushing and fixture testing to ensure everything works
6. Septic or sewer review for those with these systems
7. Documentation to plan repairs for the new year

As you move into 2026, you'll have peace of mind knowing your plumbing system has been thoroughly inspected and any issues have been identified and documented. This proactive approach prevents emergencies, reduces repair costs, and extends the life of your plumbing system.

If your inspection reveals problems beyond your comfort level or if you're unsure about any findings, don't hesitate to contact a licensed plumber. Professional inspection every 3-5 years is a worthwhile investment that catches problems a homeowner might miss.

Start your year-end plumbing maintenance today. Gather your tools, set aside a few hours, and work through this checklist systematically. Document your findings, prioritize repairs, and contact professionals for estimates on major work. Your future self will thank you when you avoid an emergency plumbing failure in the middle of winter.

Find trusted emergency plumbers in your area today who can help with any issues discovered during your inspection. Don't wait until something breaks—be proactive about your home's plumbing health this December.