With the arrival of spring, it’s the perfect time to give your plumbing system some well-deserved attention after the harsh winter months. By performing a few essential checks and maintenance tasks, you can ensure that your plumbing is in good working order and prevent potential issues down the road. In this blog, we’ll cover important spring plumbing tips to help you start the season on the right foot.
Inspect Your Pipes
Begin by checking all visible pipes, both indoors and outdoors, for any signs of damage. Look for leaks, cracks, or corrosion, paying close attention to exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and attics. Check for any frozen or burst pipes that may have been damaged during the winter.
Thoroughly Examine Fixtures for Leaks
Leaky faucets, toilets, and showers not only can cause property damage but they can also lead to increased water bills. Take the time to inspect all your fixtures for leaks or dripping water. Look for pooling water around the base of toilets, listen for continuous running sounds, and pay attention to damp areas under sinks. If you discover any leaks, address them promptly by tightening connections or replacing faulty components.
Prep Your Outdoor Plumbing
As spring arrives, it’s time to turn on outdoor water valves and connect hoses for gardening and outdoor activities. Before doing so, check for any damage or leaks in your outdoor faucets and pipes. Ensure that frost-free hose bibs are functioning properly and don’t forget to inspect sprinkler systems for leaks, broken heads, or clogged lines. Taking these steps will ensure that your outdoor plumbing is ready for the season and minimize water waste.
Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts
During the winter, debris, leaves, and twigs can accumulate in your gutters, causing clogs and potential water damage. Inspect and clean out your gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages and ensure proper drainage. This will help protect your home’s foundation and prevent water from overflowing, which can lead to leaks or flooding. Consider installing gutter guards to minimize debris buildup and reduce maintenance needs.
Drain Sediment from Your Water Heater
Over time, sediment can accumulate in your water heater, reducing its efficiency and potentially shortening its lifespan. To maintain optimal performance, it’s important to drain the sediment buildup periodically. Consult your water heater’s manufacturer guidelines or contact a professional plumber for instructions on safely draining the tank. Flushing out the sediment will not only improve energy efficiency but also ensure clean and clear hot water for your household.
Perform an Off-Season Check/Maintenance of Your Boiler
Many times, people wait until the heating season to perform boiler maintenance. Unfortunately, sometimes waiting until it’s cold can mean having to address issues when you need the system most. Many replacements and major repairs can leave you without heat overnight and addressing these problems during warm weather avoids this stress. As such, we strongly recommend off-season heating system maintenance sometime in July-August, just before you need your boiler most.
Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection
While you can perform basic checks and maintenance tasks, it’s advisable to schedule a comprehensive plumbing inspection with a licensed plumber. A professional will assess your entire plumbing system, identify any hidden issues, and provide expert recommendations. This proactive approach can save you from unexpected plumbing emergencies and costly repairs in the future.
How Priority One Can Help
Taking the time to perform these essential spring plumbing tasks will help you maintain a well-functioning plumbing system, prevent water waste, and avoid potential issues. Contact us today at 508-272-7880 to schedule a maintenance visit or to ask any questions. We can help with everything from hose spigots to irrigation system water piping, to off-season heating and hot water maintenance.
