Prepare Your Chesterton Home for Spring With This Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

Winter tends to fade rather quickly when the spring months arrive. It is no different in Chesterton. When the frost thaws, you might find that your plumbing system has been damaged.

Because you cannot properly check your pipes and other fixtures during winter, you may miss the damage until water leaks everywhere.

Fortunately, if you inspect your property properly, you can stop leaks and improve your system’s efficiency. This will prepare your home for the spring rains and summer heat in no time.

Use the following plumbing maintenance checklist to get your system in the best possible shape.

Summers PHC can help you inspect, repair, and maintain your Chesterton home’s plumbing system. Take advantage of our short-term specials and get a FREE plumbing service call with any paid repair. Limited-time offer only.

Inspect All Pipes for Leaks

Temperatures fluctuate sharply during winter. When spring arrives, they fluctuate again, but upward. This can damage your plumbing system.

You should take some time to inspect your home’s pipes when the weather warms up. Check for cracks or fractures along visible pipes. Also, watch for corrosion or rust, which could weaken the pipe.

While you inspect the pipes, remember to look for water stains on the ceilings or walls of your Chesterton home. You should also check for dripping water under the sinks.

These issues all point to a serious leak that should be handled by a professional plumber.

Examine Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures

Your plumbing maintenance checklist includes checking outdoor faucets and hose bibs. Like pipes, these fixtures can freeze during winter, leading to cracks and leaks.

Before using them in the spring, turn on the water and check for any leaks. If the water pressure is low or you see water seeping from the base of the faucet, it could mean a damaged pipe inside the wall. This is another issue that only a plumber should fix.

Clean and Check Gutters and Downspouts

While outside, check that your downspouts are still directing water away from your Chesterton home. If the downspouts are damaged, you may have water inside your home.

It is also important to clean the gutters, which can quickly become clogged with ice, leaves, and other debris. After cleaning the gutters, check them for damage. If you notice sagging or weaknesses, call a professional plumber for assistance.

Inspect the Sump Pump in the Basement

You probably don’t give your sump pump much thought, but it is one of the most critical appliances in your home. With heavy rains and potential floods in spring, your sump pump will prevent your basement from overflowing.

You can test whether the pump works properly by pouring water into the sump pit. The water should activate the unit, after which it should drain out. You should also check the discharge line for obstructions that may prevent the unit from working properly.

If the pump does not drain the water, schedule an inspection with a plumber.

Test Your Home’s Water Pressure

If your checklist is already turning up issues, you may find your home’s water pressure is low. Sediment buildup, leaks, and clogged pipes often cause low pressure.

Use a gauge to test the pressure, which should be between 40-60 psi. If there is a weak water flow, you can clean faucet aerators and showerheads by soaking them in vinegar and scrubbing them clean.

If this (sediment cleaning) makes no difference, hire a reliable plumber who can find and fix the plumbing issue.

Flush Your Water Heater

Water heaters work hard during the cold months and accumulate sediment simultaneously. You should flush and drain the tank during the spring to remove this debris.

While flushing and draining, listen for unusual noises and check for leaks or rust around the base.

If your unit struggles to maintain an even temperature afterward, it could indicate that it is losing efficiency. If the water heater is over 10 years old, it is time for a replacement.

Inspect Toilets and Washing Machine Hoses

If your toilet starts leaking, it will increase your water bill. Add all the toilets in your Chesterton home to your checklist and test them for leaks using food dye. Add several drops of dye to the tank and check whether it appears in the bowl after at least half an hour. If it does, the toilet has a leak.

You should also check that your toilets flush efficiently. If you must flush a toilet multiple times, you may need to upgrade to a water-saving model.

Moreover, your washing machine hose can also spring a leak over time. These hoses become brittle and crack as they age. They must be replaced if you notice bulging or rust around the fittings.

Check Your Garbage Disposal

Buildup in your garbage disposal can lead to blockages and bad smells. Take the time to maintain your disposal by running cold water while using it. Use citrus peels to clean the blades, and avoid putting grease or fibrous foods into it.

Consider Investing in a Professional Plumbing Inspection

A licensed plumber can help you work through each item on your checklist. This professional can also check for sewer line issues and ensure that the drainage system in your home works properly.

Even if the plumbing in your Chesterton home appears in good condition, there is always the risk of leaks and other issues developing over time.

A plumber will inspect your system properly, find hidden leaks, corrosion, and weak points, and fix them.

Book Your Spring Plumbing Maintenance With Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling

Do not let plumbing issues disrupt your routine this spring. The expert technicians at Summers PHC are ready to inspect, repair, and maintain your plumbing system, ensuring it continues to run smoothly.

Call 219-797-6122 to schedule a spring plumbing checkup or book a service online. Also, check out our incredible local specials.