You probably don’t think much about the plumbing system in your Sherman, TX home until something goes wrong. When you turn on a faucet, flush the toilet, or run the dishwasher, you expect everything to function as it should. But when things go wrong, you could have an expensive mess on your hands. A yearly plumbing inspection can protect you from those types of headaches. With regular checks, we can catch small issues before they grow into major repairs. We can also improve the efficiency of your home and extend the life of your plumbing system. Yearly inspections are especially valuable in Sherman due to local weather swings, aging homes, and hard water. With one simple appointment each year, you can avoid trouble and feel confident that your home is safe.

The Importance of Your Plumbing System

Plumbing is one of the most important parts of your home. Yet most of it is behind walls or under floors. Because of its hidden nature, problems often go unnoticed until they become serious. A small leak inside a wall can cause extensive water damage. Corroded pipes can weaken until they burst, and a clogged drain can back up without warning. What begins as a minor issue can lead to thousands of dollars in damage if ignored. Regular inspections give you peace of mind. They help ensure your system continues to work properly and safely for years to come.

What a Professional Plumbing Inspection Covers

When you schedule a plumbing inspection, our crew will take a close look at every part of your system. We are thorough and check areas most homeowners never see. This careful review protects you from hidden risks.

Pipes and Water Lines

Your pipes carry fresh water into the home. Over time, they can develop leaks, cracks, or buildup. Our plumbers will check for corrosion, leaks, and early signs of failure. If you have older pipes, this step is especially important.

Fixtures and Appliances

We test all sinks, faucets, toilets, showers, and tubs. Our team looks for leaks, loose parts, or worn seals. We also check appliances like dishwashers and washing machines to make sure connections are secure.

Water Heaters

Your water heater plays a key role in daily comfort. We inspect it for leaks, rust, sediment buildup, and overall efficiency. Most water heaters last about 8–12 years, so these inspections help identify when it’s time for replacement before failure occurs.

Sewer and Drain Systems

Drains and sewer lines are often ignored until they back up. During an inspection, we may run tests to check for clogs, tree root intrusion, or slow flow. Catching these issues early prevents messy emergencies.

Benefits of Yearly Plumbing Inspections

Scheduling an inspection once a year brings many rewards. You save money, protect your home, and avoid stress.

Here are some key benefits of an annual inspection:

  • Lower risk of costly repairs
  • Longer lifespan for pipes and appliances
  • Fewer clogs and backups
  • Lower water and energy bills
  • Safer, cleaner water for your family
  • Higher home value should you decide to sell

Inspections save money long term. You also gain peace of mind knowing your home is safe. That confidence alone makes inspections worthwhile.

Common Plumbing Issues Found During Inspections

Many problems appear during inspections that homeowners never suspected. Some of these issues develop slowly over time. Others happen because of age, weather, or normal wear.

Here are some problems we often find:

  • Small hidden leaks
  • Rust and corrosion in pipes
  • Low water pressure
  • Slow drains and partial clogs
  • Sewer line blockages
  • Inefficient or aging water heaters

We can fix most of these problems quickly, especially if they’re caught early. An inspection also provides a record of your plumbing’s condition. If an issue returns later, we can compare notes from past visits to track the cause.

Why Sherman Homeowners Should Prioritize Inspections

Sherman has unique conditions that make yearly plumbing inspections especially important. The local climate includes hot summers, cold winters, and sudden temperature swings. Pipes can expand and contract with the freeze-thaw cycle, which may lead to cracks or bursts. Shifting soil from dry, hot weather can also stress underground lines. Many homes in Sherman are older, and older plumbing systems are more likely to fail. Some homes have pipes made from materials that are no longer used today. These materials were common at the time but have since shown serious weaknesses.

Some older pipe types include:

  • Galvanized steel
  • Cast iron
  • Polybutylene
  • Orangeburg (used for older sewer lines)
  • Lead

These materials are less durable, more likely to corrode, and can cause both water quality and safety issues. Today, Sherman homes often feature plumbing made from safer, more durable materials such as PEX, PVC, CPVC, and copper. Copper remains strong and long-lasting, while PEX’s flexibility helps it resist freezing and bursting. PVC and CPVC are lightweight and reliable for drains, vents, and hot water lines. Homeowners with older systems may not know what type of pipes are in their walls or under their floors. A plumbing inspection identifies these materials and helps you plan for repairs or upgrades before failures happen. Another local factor is water hardness. Sherman’s water contains moderate mineral levels that can build up inside pipes and appliances. Over time, this buildup reduces efficiency and shortens the life of water heaters and fixtures.

How Often Should You Schedule Plumbing Inspections?

Most plumbing professionals recommend an annual inspection to maintain efficiency and prevent costly surprises. This regular schedule keeps your system in good shape and allows our crew to catch small issues early. Some situations call for more frequent checks. If your home is older, you may benefit from twice-a-year visits. If your household uses a lot of water or if you have had past plumbing problems, extra inspections may also help. If you just purchased a home, schedule an inspection soon after moving in. Even if the seller provided a report, it’s wise to let us confirm the system’s condition. This gives you a clear starting point for future care.

Preparing for Your Plumbing Inspection

You can take a few simple steps to make your inspection smooth and effective. Try to provide clear access to sinks, toilets, and appliances. Move items away from water heaters, crawl spaces, or utility closets. Keep a list of any concerns you have noticed. If you have seen a slow drain, heard a strange noise, or noticed a higher water bill, make a note. Share this information with us so we can pay extra attention to those areas. Being prepared saves time and ensures that we check every part of your system without delay. Choosing the right plumber makes a big difference in the quality of your inspection. At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing®, we know the specific issues that affect Sherman homes. This local knowledge helps provide a more accurate inspection. We offer a full range of plumbing services, including drain cleaning, water heater installation, and sewer line repair. Contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® today for more information or to schedule your plumbing inspection.