Run water in unused fixtures and drains

Why It Matters

Unused traps dry out, letting sewer gas into the home. Stagnant water also breeds bacteria in supply lines.

How to Do It

1. Walk through the home and identify every sink, tub, shower, floor drain, and toilet you don't use on a regular basis.
2. At each sink and tub, run both the hot and cold taps for 30 seconds.
3. At each shower, turn it on and let both hot and cold water flow for 30 seconds.
4. At each floor drain, slowly pour enough water down to fill the trap, or run a nearby hose or faucet into it for 30 seconds.
5. Flush each guest toilet once to refresh the water in the bowl and tank.

Related Tasks

• Clear sink and shower drain buildup Every 3 months
• Close and reopen the main water shutoff valve Once a year
• Inspect toilets for leaks and worn flappers Once a year
• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated spaces Once a year
• Shut off and drain exterior hose bibs Once a year