At Service Pro Plumbing in Campbell River, we believe that the best plumbing service is preventive — catching issues before they become emergencies. With our rainy coastal climate, aging homes, and changing infrastructure, our list below of regular plumbing maintenance is especially important in this region.
Here’s why maintenance matters — and what to include in your checklist.
🔍 Crawlspaces & Sump Pumps
Homes in Campbell River often have crawlspaces or basements where hidden leaks can develop. A sump pump is your first line of defence against groundwater or storm run-off.
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Check for damp spots, musty smells, or visible water stains in your crawlspace.
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Test your sump pump (if you have one) by pouring a bucket of water into the pit — make sure it activates and drains properly.
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Clear nearby debris, ensure the discharge line goes far enough away from the foundation, and inspect for corrosion or wear.
🚰 Perimeter Drains – Scope & Jetting
To protect your home from water intrusion, your perimeter drain system (around the foundation) must be clear. Over time, soil, roots, and silt can clog the system.
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Have us scope (camera inspect) your perimeter drains every few years if your home is older or you’ve experienced basement dampness.
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Hydro-jetting to flush the lines can restore proper drainage and prolong the life of the system — especially important in older Campbell River homes with mature landscaping.
🌀 Slow Drains & Winterizing Hose Bibs
Slow sinks, tubs, or showers can signal build-up or minor blockages. Fixing them early is far easier than dealing with backups or sewer issues.
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For slow drains: use strainers, avoid pouring grease down the sink, and schedule a professional clean-out if necessary. Drain plug and P-trap clean outs can be performed easily by homeowners with the right tools and knowledge.
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For outdoor plumbing: Before winter, disconnect hoses, drain and insulate outdoor hose bibs to prevent frozen pipes or burst fittings in cold snaps — especially if your home has exposed plumbing or older pipe insulation.
🔧 Main Shut-Off Valve & Leak Check
When trouble hits, you’ll want to shut off the water fast. A faulty or stuck main shut-off valve can make a bad situation worse.
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Locate your home’s main shut-off valve now — turn it off and on to ensure it moves freely.
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Inspect near the valve and surrounding connections for any signs of dripping or corrosion.
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For homes built decades ago in Campbell River, older valves may need replacing to meet current standards or insurance requirements.
💧 Water Filtration & Softening Systems
If your home uses a water filtration or softening system, staying on top of maintenance is key to water quality and system longevity.
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Replace filters according to manufacturer recommendations (often every 6 – 12 months).
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Check for signs of hard water staining, reduced flow, or changes in taste or odor.
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Maintaining these systems prevents stress on downstream plumbing and appliances.
🌡️ Water Heater / Tankless System Flush
Whether you have a traditional tank or a tankless (on-demand) water heater, annual maintenance keeps your system efficient and reliable.
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Sediment build-up in water heaters reduces efficiency and shortens lifespan.
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Tankless systems need flushing (descaling) to remove mineral deposits — Vancouver Island’s water can contribute to build-up over time.
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Scheduling a maintenance ensures your hot water doesn’t let you down.
✅ Why It Pays to Maintain — Especially in Campbell River
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Prevent water damage: Even a slow unseen drip can lead to mold, rot or structural damage in our wetter climate.
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Extend lifespan: Well-maintained systems last longer and perform better.
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Save on energy & repairs: Clean systems are efficient, and small issues cost far less than major repairs or replacements.
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Insurance & resale readiness: Maintaining plumbing systems shows you’ve taken good care of the home — important for home inspections or insurance claims.
📅 Create Your Annual Maintenance Plan
Here’s a simple annual checklist to tick off:
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Q1: Crawlspace inspection + sump pump test
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Q2: Scope perimeter drains + check outdoor hose bibs
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Q3: Inspect main shut-off valve + run water filtration system filter replacement
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Q4: Flush water heater or tankless system + review plumbing for winter prep
Ready for a Plumbing Tune-Up?
If you’re in Campbell River and want a full plumbing maintenance check-up, the team at Service Pro is here for you. We’ll assess your system, catch small issues early, and help keep your home running smoothly year-round.
📞 Book your maintenance review today or call us at 250-923-8585.