A free, month-by-month plumbing checklist for Nanaimo homeowners — written for wet winters, freezing nights and dry summers.
Print it, bookmark it or share it with new neighbours, all are welcome to link to this page.
Mid-winter
Cold air in the crawl space is the main cause of frozen pipes.
In a burst pipe, every minute counts. See <a href="/guides/how-to-shut-off-your-water">how to shut off your water</a>.
When to call a pro: Have a stiff or leaking valve replaced.
Small leaks are cheap to fix early.
Late winter
Freezing nights can still come late in winter.
Leaks at the tank are a warning sign.
When to call a pro: A leaking tank needs a plumber.
Hidden leaks show up as stains or bubbling paint.
Spring rain
Spring rain tests drainage around the house.
Mineral buildup reduces flow.
If colour shows in the bowl without flushing, the flapper leaks.
Spring
A tap that split over winter leaks inside the wall when turned on.
When to call a pro: Call a plumber if water appears inside.
It clears some sediment.
When to call a pro: Gas heaters: leave controls to a gas fitter.
Burst washer hoses are a common cause of floods.
Getting dry
Dry summers mean watering season.
Slow leaks rot cabinets.
Prevents clogs before they start.
Summer
A moving meter means a hidden leak. See <a href="/services/leak-detection">leak detection</a>.
Less is lost to evaporation in dry summers.
Easier now than in a winter backup.
Dry season
Lush spots can mean a leak. See <a href="/guides/sewer-line-warning-signs">sewer line warning signs</a>.
Barbecue season grease is a common clog.
Plan a replacement before it fails.
Late summer
Dry months test well systems.
Plumbers are easier to book before winter emergencies.
Fall prep
Find roots or breaks before winter rains. See <a href="/services/sewer-drain-lines">sewer and drain lines</a>.
See <a href="/guides/poly-b-pipe">Poly-B pipe</a>.
Heavy rain is coming.
Before the first freeze
A hose left on can freeze the tap.
Prevents split taps.
These freeze first.
Wet season
Heavy rain season.
Busy kitchens mean clogged sinks.
Cold snaps
Lets warm air reach the pipes.
An empty, cold house is how pipes freeze.
When to call a pro: Ask someone to check the house.
Use a hair dryer and open the tap.
When to call a pro: If it bursts, shut off the main water.
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This calendar is general guidance. Gas appliances, including gas water heaters, must be serviced by a certified gas fitter.
Print it, bookmark it or share it with new neighbours, all are welcome to link to this page.
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