Getting Your Plumbing Ready for Spring

It’s too early to call it spring here on the prairies, but it IS coming. Now is the perfect time to start thinking about your plumbing, and the damage winter may have caused. Here are some things to start investigating now, as spring starts to arrive.  

Check your indoor and outdoor pipes  

Over the cold months of winter, pipes can freeze, crack, and burst. Make sure to pay special attention to outside spigots, as they are a common area to see a burst line. Look for cracks, discoloration, mold, damage, or leaks. You can also look at your faucets to ensure they are functioning properly – low pressure usually indicates a leak.  

If you do find damaged or leaking pipes, shut off the water valve to prevent further damage, especially if it freezes again. If you can open a faucet near that pipe, after turning off water, it can also relieve some pressure. Then you’ll probably want to call in some experts to help you assess and deal with the damage.  

Check your sump pump 

Spring thaw is a time where you really want a working sump pump, so now is a great time to check yours. Fill a bucket with water and slowly pour it around your sump pump, making sure you have added enough to reach the level where the pump engages. If the pump doesn’t turn on, you will want to call a licensed plumber immediately. You want to make sure your pump isn’t damaged, clogged, or completely broken before its busiest season. Also, you may need to replace your sump pump if you notice these three signs.

Clean your gutters 

Though not directly related to your plumbing, this is a key step to make sure your home stays dry. Clogs in your eavestroughs or downspouts prevent water from draining away from the foundation of your house. You want to give your sump pump some help as it tries to clear water away. The best way to do this is to make sure your gutters and spouts are doing their job- draining all the spring water away from your house.  

This is also a good time to repair any damage to these structures, and make sure they are attached securely.  

Check your sprinklers 

Your outdoor water systems are subject to some particularly harsh conditions over the winter. To make sure that you can use your outdoor taps and sprinklers when summer comes, you want to start checking them now. Open faucets and test sprinklers to see if water comes out right or if there is a clog or damage. Replace any faulty or damaged fixtures now.  

Spring is going to be here soon, and a little preparation will make sure it’s a happy one!