As the weather warms up, your plumbing may need attention after enduring months of freezing temperatures. Winter can cause pipes to expand and contract, leading to small leaks or hidden damage. As spring brings rain and increased water use, issues that were unnoticed during the colder months may start showing up.
A spring plumbing checklist can help you identify potential problems before they become major repairs. Taking the time to inspect and maintain your plumbing now can prevent unexpected breakdowns, high water bills, and water damage.
If you need a pro to take a look, Voyager Plumbing is always here to help. Schedule a service today.
Inspect for Leaks
Leaky pipes, faucets, and appliances waste water and increase your utility bills. Even a slow drip can add up over time. The first step in your spring plumbing checklist should be checking for leaks inside and outside your home.
Where to Check for Leaks:
- Faucets and Fixtures: Turn on each faucet and check for drips or moisture around the base.
- Under Sinks: Look for damp spots, mold, or water stains that indicate slow leaks.
- Toilets: Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank. If the color appears in the bowl within 30 minutes without flushing, there is a leak.
- Outdoor Faucets & Hose Bibs: Turn them on and check for leaks or weak water flow, which could indicate freeze damage.
If you notice any leaks, repairing them now can prevent bigger issues later. Replacing worn washers, tightening connections, or calling a plumber for larger leaks can help keep your plumbing in good shape.
Test Water Pressure
Changes in water pressure can be a sign of underlying plumbing issues. Low water pressure may indicate pipe blockages, sediment buildup, or even a hidden leak.
How to Check Water Pressure:
- Turn on multiple faucets and showers at the same time and observe whether the water flow remains steady.
- Use a water pressure gauge to measure pressure from an outdoor faucet. A normal range is 40-60 psi.
- If pressure is low, check the main water valve to ensure it’s fully open.
Cleaning faucet aerators and showerheads may help, as mineral deposits can restrict water flow. If the problem persists, a professional plumber can inspect for deeper plumbing issues.
Clear Slow Drains
A slow-draining sink, tub, or shower is a warning sign of a developing clog. Hair, grease, soap scum, and debris accumulate in pipes over time, reducing water flow and eventually leading to complete blockages.
Steps to Clear Slow Drains:
- Run hot water for a few minutes to flush grease and soap buildup.
- Pour a mixture of vinegar and baking soda down the drain, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with hot water.
- Remove drain covers and clear visible debris like hair and food scraps.
If multiple drains in your home are slow, this could indicate a bigger clog in the plumbing system. Professional drain cleaning may be needed to remove deep blockages.
Inspect Your Water Heater
Your water heater works harder during the winter, which can lead to sediment buildup and reduced efficiency. Spring is a good time to flush the tank and check for any signs of wear or damage.
Water Heater Maintenance Tips:
- Inspect for leaks or rust around the base of the water heater.
- Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup and improve efficiency.
- Adjust the temperature to 120°F to prevent scalding and save energy.
If you notice strange noises, rust-colored water, or fluctuating temperatures, your water heater may need repairs or replacement.
Check Your Sump Pump
Spring often brings heavy rain, which can overwhelm your sump pump if it’s not working properly. A failed sump pump can lead to basement flooding and water damage.
How to Test Your Sump Pump:
- Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit. The pump should activate, remove the water, and shut off properly.
- Inspect the discharge pipe to ensure it is not blocked or damaged.
- Make sure the pump has backup power in case of electrical outages.
If your sump pump is more than ten years old or has had previous issues, consider replacing it before the rainy season begins.
Examine Outdoor Plumbing
Your home’s outdoor plumbing, including sprinkler systems and gutters, also needs attention in the spring. Sprinkler heads can become damaged over the winter, and leaks in irrigation systems can waste water and increase your bills.
What to Check Outdoors:
- Turn on your sprinkler system and check for broken heads or leaks.
- Inspect hoses and hose bibs for cracks or leaks.
- Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water overflow and damage to your home’s foundation.
Fixing minor issues now can prevent major water waste and costly repairs later.
Prevent Sewer Line Backups
Melting snow and spring rains can put extra pressure on your sewer system. If tree roots, debris, or grease buildup block your pipes, you could experience slow drains or sewage backups.
Warning Signs of Sewer Issues:
- Multiple drains clogging at the same time.
- Foul smells coming from drains.
- Gurgling noises when flushing toilets or using sinks.
Regular inspections and drain cleaning can help prevent major issues. If you notice signs of a potential backup, calling a plumber to inspect and clear the line can prevent serious plumbing problems.
Plan for Routine Maintenance
Routine maintenance is the best way to keep your plumbing system in good condition and avoid unexpected repairs. Spring is a great time to schedule a professional inspection to check for leaks, test water pressure, clean drains, and ensure all fixtures are in working order.
Benefits of Professional Maintenance:
- Detects hidden leaks before they cause major damage.
- Extends the lifespan of your plumbing system.
- Prevents expensive emergency repairs.
Scheduling annual plumbing maintenance can help prevent future problems and keep everything running smoothly.
Keep Your Plumbing in Top Shape This Spring
A little preventive care can go a long way in avoiding plumbing issues. Inspecting for leaks, testing water pressure, cleaning drains, and checking outdoor plumbing can prevent costly repairs and keep your system working efficiently. Addressing small problems now will save time, money, and stress later in the season.
If you need professional assistance with inspections, drain cleaning, water heater maintenance, or sump pump repairs, call Voyager Plumbing to schedule a spring plumbing checkup and ensure your home is ready for the warmer months.
