Spring Plumbing Maintenance Tips

Spring is a time for fresh starts, new beginnings and clearing the debris left behind by the cold, dreary winter months.

We thought now was perfect to provide you with some timely tips to help make sure your household plumbing is ready for the spring. By looking into these matters now, you’ll have much more time to enjoy the beautiful weather that surely lies just around the corner. (We are so ready for that weather to finally arrive, aren’t you?!)

For starters, it’s that time of year when the “April showers” roll in and many local basements get flooded as a result. We’d hate to see yours become one of them, so here’s how to make sure it doesn’t:

Outdoors

Clear gutters and downspouts, because once that water begins to pour, you want to be sure that the rain is flowing away from your house.  If it overflowing your gutters and running back against your house, it can begin pooling in the basement. This can cause your floor drains to back up, but it can also damage the foundation of your home.

Also, check that all plumbing appliances, like hot water heaters, have clear ventilation. Birds and other small animals may climb inside vents and block the exhaust. This can affect performance as well as reroute harmful fumes back into your home.

Finally, start your outdoor spigots and check for leaks.  If you find a hose has been attached to your spigot over the winter, be extra careful.  Leaving a hose attached can cause a freeze break in the pipe behind the spigot and can cause flooding.

Check Your Sump Pump

Check your sump pump to see if it’s working properly by pouring a bucket of water in the pit and then activating the switch. Also, be sure the discharge line is clear of leaves or other debris.

Consider a Backup Sump Pump

These turn on either when your main sump pump fails or when there is a power loss. Covenant Plumbing would be glad to help you understand whether you need a water-powered backup or a battery backup sump pump.  Each has its advantages.

More Tips to Consider

Leaking faucets need your prompt attention

Leaking faucets and leaks, in general, can cause structural damage before you even realize something’s wrong. Keep a sharp lookout for water under your refrigerator, damp spots or water stains on your walls or ceilings, and the smell of must or mold.

Give a quick visual inspection for areas that are more prone to bulges such as an ice maker supply line, washing machine hose and outdoor hose faucets.

Check all the exposed pipes in the basement, under sinks and in other little-used areas of your home. These are the most likely to develop leaks

How Can You Find out If Your Toilet Is Running?

Pour a teaspoon of food coloring in the tank and then, about a half-hour later, check your toilet bowl. If the water is tinged that same color… yep, you guessed it, a leaking toilet tank!

Covenant Plumbing is just a phone call away if you need help taking care of any plumbing repairs that you find.

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