Must-Do Plumbing Maintenance Tasks When Spring Arrives

Brownsburg homeowners sigh in relief when spring arrives. The weather is milder, and there is no need for seven layers or a space heater. However, this relief sometimes is short-lived when they realize winter did a number on their plumbing systems.

One of the first things you should do when the weather turns warmer is to check plumbing pipes and fixtures. If you neglect this, you may miss small issues that could become expensive problems later on.

Keep reading to discover which areas of your home to check, what to repair, and when to call a plumber.

Summers PHC can assist you with a thorough plumbing system inspection. This includes a water heater safety inspection for only $59! Plus, you get a free plumbing service call with any paid repair. (Limited-time offer only.)

Kitchen and Bathroom Drain Clogs

If you notice the water draining slower than usual from your kitchen or bathroom, there may be a blockage somewhere else. If the clog is small, you should be able to remove it using a plunger. This method works especially well for kitchen and bathroom sinks.

All you need to do is fill the sink halfway and maneuver the plunger up and down. The suction power will loosen the blockage.

If you have a double sink in your kitchen, you must block one drain with a wet cloth while using the plunger on the other.

You can also use a plunger for a shower or bathtub blockage. It is easier to use the plunger if you remove the drain cover and use a wire to clear out hair and other debris.

Remember that if the blockage does not loosen, reach out to a professional plumber to help you.

Persistent Low Water Pressure

You can check the water pressure in your Brownsburg home by opening several indoor faucets simultaneously. If the pressure is fine, none of the water streams will dip. If there is a clog in the pipes, one or more faucets will flow slowly.

You can check for other issues if you believe a blockage does not cause the low water pressure. This may include fully opening the shutoff valve near your water meter (if it is only partly open).

In some instances, there may be a problem with the city’s water supply. Sometimes, municipalities lower the water flow to regulate usage. If this is the issue with your home’s water pressure, you would need to install a booster pump.

Low water pressure can also be the result of a leaking toilet. Check for leaks by adding a few drops of food dye to your toilet tank. If the color leaches into the bowl after thirty minutes, a leak must be fixed.

Pipe Damage and Leaks

It is common for pipes to freeze when the temperatures drop below freezing. This can lead to slow leaks in pipes or extensive water damage.

You should check for leaks in your basement or crawl space during the beginning of spring. Be sure to check for leaks under sinks as well.

If you do a walk-through in your Brownsburg home and find brown spots on the walls or ceiling, you likely have hidden water damage.

You can also confirm a leak by checking your water meter. If no water is running but the water meter moves, there is likely an unseen leak in your home.

It is best to schedule a professional inspection to prevent further damage if you find any of these issues.

Prepare Your Water Heater

Since your water heater works overtime in the winter, you should check it as soon as the weather turns warm. This can help extend the lifespan of the unit.

The most important thing to do is flush the tank to remove sediment buildup. When you refill it, make sure the temperature setting is at 120°F to save on energy. You should also check for leaks or rust around the unit’s base.

Sometimes, your water heater may be too old to keep on repairing. Consider replacing the unit if it is between 10 and 15 years old.

Get Your Outdoor Plumbing Ready for Summer

With spring comes more gardening tasks, so you want to ensure your outdoor plumbing is up to the job.

Inspect your outdoor faucets and hose bibs for leaks. These fixtures can freeze during winter, leading to damage and leaks.

If your garden hoses are damaged by freezing weather, replace them instead of repairing them. You should also check your irrigation system for broken sprinkler heads.

Your gutters and downspouts need attention, too. Downspouts should be clear of debris and able to direct water at least 5 feet away from your Brownsburg home. This protects the foundation against water damage.

Clear your gutters of wet leaves and sticks before it causes damage. Maintaining your outdoor plumbing well will protect your home’s structure and prevent water waste.

Test Your Sump Pump

The last thing you want to deal with during spring is a flooded basement. Check that your sump pump works by pouring water into the pit. If it switches on, it should work fine. Remember to clean the intake and discharge lines in case of small blockages.

Consider installing a backup battery. This will ensure the pump works even if a storm knocks the power out.

Call a Plumber for Major Fixes or Replacements

DIY maintenance can help you prevent major issues. However, some plumbing problems require an expert to fix them. If you notice your water bill increasing, even when you are not using more water, you have a serious leak that needs to be fixed by a professional plumber.

You should also call a plumber for sewage backups, foul pipe odors, and a malfunctioning sump pump.

Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling Is Your Trusted Plumbing Service Partner

Let Summers PHC take the stress out of spring plumbing maintenance with professional inspections, repairs, and system upgrades.

Call our Brownsburg branch at 317-742-6699 or book a service online. Remember to check out our local specials.