Top 3 Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Spring
Spring is finally here! The flowers are blooming, the birds are singing, and it’s the perfect time to do some spring cleaning around the house. But while you’re dusting off your shelves and decluttering your closets, don’t forget about your plumbing. Spring is a great time to perform these plumbing maintenance tips to ensure that your pipes and fixtures are in good condition for the warmer months ahead. Here are the top three things you should do as plumbing maintenance for your home in the spring.
Inspect Your Pipes for Damage
During the winter months, your pipes are subjected to freezing temperatures and increased pressure due to the expansion of water when it freezes. This can cause cracks, leaks, and other damage to your pipes, which can lead to water damage and high water bills. Therefore, it’s important to inspect your pipes for damage before spring arrives.
Start by looking for signs of leaks around your home, such as wet spots on your walls or ceilings, musty odors, or unexplained puddles. You should also look for signs of damage on exposed pipes, such as rust, corrosion, or cracks. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to call a professional plumber to inspect your pipes and perform any necessary repairs.
Another important step in pipe maintenance is to clean out your drains. Over time, hair, food scraps, and other debris can accumulate in your drains and cause clogs. Use a plunger or a drain snake to clear out any clogs before they become a bigger problem. You can also prevent clogs by using drain covers to catch debris before it goes down the drain.
Check Your Water Heater
Your water heater works hard all winter to provide hot water for your home, so it’s important to check it for any problems before the spring arrives. Start by checking the temperature on your water heater. The ideal temperature is between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is set too high, you could risk scalding yourself, while setting it too low could increase the risk of bacteria growth in the tank.
Next, check the pressure relief valve on your water heater. This valve is designed to release pressure if the tank becomes too full or if the pressure inside the tank becomes too high. If you notice water leaking from this valve, it’s a sign that the valve needs to be replaced.
Finally, consider flushing your water heater to remove any sediment or debris that has accumulated in the tank. This can improve the efficiency of your water heater and help it last longer. You can do this by turning off the power to your water heater, turning off the water supply to the tank, and attaching a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. Open the valve and let the water drain out until it runs clear.
Check Your Outdoor Plumbing
Spring is the time when many homeowners start working on their landscaping, which can put a strain on your outdoor plumbing. To prevent any problems, it’s important to check your outdoor plumbing before you start planting flowers or working on your lawn.
Start by checking your outdoor faucets for leaks. If you notice any leaks, you’ll need to replace the washers or the entire faucet. You should also check your hoses for cracks or holes and replace them if necessary. Make sure to turn off the water supply to your outdoor faucets during the winter to prevent freezing and cracking.
If you have a sprinkler system, you’ll also need to check it for damage before you start using it in the spring. Look for signs of leaks, broken sprinkler heads, or other damage. You may need to call a professional to repair any damage or perform maintenance on your system.
By performing these three plumbing maintenance tips in the spring, you can ensure that your home’s plumbing system is in good condition for the warmer months ahead. If you’re not comfortable performing any of these tasks on your own, or if you notice any issues that require professional attention, don’t hesitate to contact a us. Our team at Still Waters Plumbing, can help you address any plumbing issues in a timely and efficient manner, and can ensure that your home’s plumbing system is in good condition for the long term. Happy spring cleaning!
