Spring Plumbing Checklist: 6 Things You Should Add to Your List!
Spring has officially sprung, which means many of us are eager to get outside and enjoy the warmer weather. But before you completely abandon the indoors, don’t forget about your plumbing! A little seasonal maintenance can prevent costly repairs, improve efficiency, and help keep your home running smoothly throughout the year.
Here are a few simple ways to refresh your plumbing system this spring.
1. Inspect Your Outdoor Pipes and Sewer Line
Spring is a season of growth, which is great for your garden, but not always for your plumbing. Tree roots and certain plants can grow into underground pipes and sewer lines, causing blockages or even serious damage.
If you’ve experienced slow drains or recurring backups, it may be worth scheduling an inspection. Catching these issues early can prevent major repairs and messy surprises down the road.
2. Reconnect and Test Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
After a long winter, outdoor faucets can sometimes develop cracks or leaks from freezing temperatures. Spring is the perfect time to reconnect hoses and test everything before you need them regularly.
When turning your outdoor taps back on:
Check for leaks around the faucet and inside your home where the pipe enters the wall.
Inspect hoses for cracks or weak spots.
Ensure the shut-off valve is working properly.
3. Clear and Maintain Your Drains
Over time, kitchen and bathroom drains collect soap residue, grease, hair, and other debris. Spring is a great opportunity to give your drains a little attention before clogs become a bigger problem.
A few easy maintenance tips include:
Use a plumbing snake or drain auger to remove minor clogs.
Run hot water regularly in kitchen drains to help break down grease buildup.
4. Clean Your Faucets and Showerheads
Mineral buildup from hard water can restrict water flow and affect pressure in your faucets and showerheads.
To restore performance:
Remove showerheads and soak them in vinegar overnight.
Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub away mineral deposits.
Wipe down faucet aerators and remove any debris.
5. Test Your Sump Pump
Spring snowmelt and rain can put extra strain on your home’s drainage system. If you have a sump pump, now is the time to make sure it’s working properly.
To test it:
Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit.
Make sure the pump activates and drains the water quickly.
Check that the discharge pipe outside is clear and directing water away from your home.
6. Check Your Water Heater for Efficiency
Your water heater works year-round but often gets overlooked during routine maintenance. Spring is a good time to give it a quick inspection.
Look for signs of wear such as:
Rust or corrosion
Small leaks around fittings
Unusual noises caused by sediment buildup
Spring cleaning might not be the most exciting way to spend a sunny afternoon, but a little preventative maintenance can go a long way. Taking the time to refresh your plumbing now can help prevent unexpected issues, improve efficiency, and save you from costly repairs later in the year.
If you run into any issues now, or later in the season, please reach out to the Action Team!