Your Detailed Spring Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

When spring arrives in Anderson, IN, residents are not only relieved because of the warmer weather. It also gives their plumbing systems a break from the relentless cold.

However, checking your plumbing system as the weather warms up is important. By preparing well, you can minimize the stress on your plumbing pipes caused by seasonal temperature fluctuations.

You can also proactively detect and fix leaks or damage that happened during the cold months. This will save you money and potentially prevent serious plumbing issues.

Get a head start on your spring plumbing maintenance with Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling. Purchase a sump pump battery backup and save $75. Book a drain cleaning and enjoy a service discount of $99. Limited-time offer only! Terms and conditions apply.

Why Spring Plumbing Maintenance Is Essential

Anderson’s winters can be harsh, especially during storms or a polar vortex. These conditions can wreak unseen havoc on your plumbing pipes.

A proper inspection when the weather turns will help you prevent expensive repairs and ensure efficient water use. It can also protect your home from flooding.

The following steps will allow you to systematically inspect every aspect of your plumbing system:

1.    Inspect Your Pipes for Leaks and Winter Damage

During winter, you may not notice pipe leaks, cracks, or weakened joints. As ice and snow melt, these issues will become visible.

It is crucial to check all the pipes in and around your home for leaks or damage. Pay more attention to pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces, attics, and basements. You should also inspect outdoor hose bibs and outdoor faucets. These fixtures are highly vulnerable to cold and can crack, resulting in leaks.

Remember to check walls and ceilings for water stains and monitor your water meter for movement when not using water. If the meter moves, there may be a hidden leak somewhere. If you suspect a hidden leak, contact a professional plumber to detect and fix it.

2.    Test Your Sump Pump Before It Rains

Anderson gets most of its rain in spring and summer. A working sump pump in your basement is crucial to prevent flooding.

Test yours by unplugging and plugging it back in to check that it works. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to activate the pump. Cleaning the sump pit to remove debris is also a good idea.

While testing, listen for strange sounds that may indicate an issue. Make sure you have a battery backup in case of a power outage.

If you cannot get your sump pump to work properly, it is best to contact a professional plumber for assistance.

3.      Drain and Flush Your Water Heater

It is common for sediment to build up in a water heater over time. When this happens, the heater becomes less efficient. The sediment may also reduce the heater’s lifespan.

To keep your water heater running efficiently:

• Turn off the power or gas supply.
• Connect a hose to the drain valve (drain the water into a bucket).
• Flush the heater tank by turning the cold water on and off until it runs clear.
• Refill the tank and restore the power.

Following these simple steps will help you maintain water pressure and improve the water heater’s heating capacity.

4.      Check Your Sewer Lines

Sudden heavy spring rains can quickly overwhelm the sewer lines in your home. When the lines overflow, it can cause a backup.

Watch for slow drains and listen for gurgling sounds. These can signal clogs. If you believe there is a blockage, schedule a professional inspection.

5.    Clean Gutters and Downspouts

During spring, you want to direct rainwater away from your home. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water damage and affect your plumbing.

You must remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from your gutters. Your downspouts should direct rainwater 5 feet away from your home’s foundation.

You should also check the gutters and downspouts for leaks or damage and get them repaired when needed.

6.    Test Water Pressure and Quality

Testing your home’s water pressure should be part of your spring plumbing checklist. Use a pressure gauge on outdoor spigots and check if the pressure is between 40-60 PSI.

Indoor aerators and showerheads should be inspected for mineral buildup that can restrict water flow. Also, check whether the water pressure drops when more than one faucet is opened.

Outdoor Spring Plumbing Maintenance Tips

Lastly, since you do not use your outdoor plumbing in winter, you need to pay extra attention to it come springtime.

In addition to checking bibs and faucets for leaks, you must inspect sprinkler systems for damage. Also, check all outdoor pipes and drains to ensure they work properly. Replace or repair garden hoses that have obvious damage or cracks.

Maintaining your outdoor plumbing system can prevent wasted water, which means a lower utility bill.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

You should not attempt to fix certain plumbing issues on your own. These include the following:

• Persistent leaks or hidden leaks
• Sewer backups
• Discolored water and inconsistent water pressure
• Frequent sump pump failures

If you experience any of these issues in your home, have a professional inspection done. This will help you get minor or moderate issues fixed before they turn into massive problems.

Summers PHC Can Help You Prepare Your Plumbing for Spring

For expert plumbing maintenance services in Anderson, IN, trust Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling. Our team can help you accomplish your spring plumbing maintenance checklist. We can also fix all the issues detected during the inspection.

Do not let a plumbing problem ruin your spring. Book an inspection, maintenance, or service today and save with our local specials. Call 765-444-6175 or book a service online.