Your Must-Have Spring Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

After seemingly never-ending months of cold weather, your La Porte home needs a little TLC to prepare for the new spring season. This includes spring-cleaning the interior and checking your plumbing system for winter damage.

Your plumbing pipes and fixtures may reveal hidden issues that develop during freezing weather. The following spring plumbing maintenance checklist is designed to help you systematically assess and maintain your home’s plumbing system.

Doing this can help you save money and extend the lifespan of your plumbing.

Need help preparing your plumbing for spring? Summers PHC can handle inspections, repairs, and installation services. We have several specials running, including $99 for a thorough drain cleaning (including camera inspection). You also get a FREE plumbing service call with any paid repair. Hurry! Limited-time offer only,

Water Heater Maintenance

During winter, your water heater works constantly, which means more wear and tear.  Whether you have an older heater or a new model, you should maintain it regularly.

In most instances, a water heater can last up to 13 years. At this age, it may not work as efficiently. If you notice issues with an older water heater, replacing it may be better than repairing it.

For newer models, keep an eye out for the following problems:

• No hot water or not enough hot water
• Rust in the water
• Pooling water
• Smelly water

Drain and flush your heater to rid it of sediment and other debris. This should improve the water flow and extend the unit’s lifespan.

Also, ensure your water heater is set to around 120°F to prevent overheating. Contact a professional plumber if your efforts don’t affect the heater’s performance.

Cracked and Leaking Pipes

If you discover water stains on the floor, ceiling, or walls, you likely have a leaking pipe. If you do not have the pipe fixed, the water damage can result in flooding and black mold.

Even if you do not see obvious discoloration or stains, you should still do a walk-through in your La Porte home. Inspect all visible pipes, especially those under sinks and in crawl spaces or basements. If there is a leak, you may find corrosion or water pooling.

While checking for leaks, remember to listen for them too. A faint drip or gurgle could mean a hidden leak in the wall that must be fixed immediately.

Clogged Drains

Your home’s drains must work optimally to prevent the development of germs and bacteria. You must check your drains for blockages after the winter. If the water drains slowly from the kitchen, bathroom, or floor drains, there is a potential clog in the system.

If you leave the clog untreated, it can block the drain completely, causing a backup. Before this happens, call a plumber to help you unclog it and clean the lines. A plunger may remove small blockages, but if it does not budge, a plumber is your best bet.

Test Your La Porte Home’s Water Pressure

Use a water pressure gauge to test the pressure in your home. You should attach the gauge to an outdoor bib or gauge and fully open the water supply. Check that the water pressure is between 40-60 PSI.

If the pressure is above this threshold, it can stress your plumbing system greatly. You should be able to adjust the pressure regulator to get the pressure back to normal levels. If the water pressure stays high, get a plumber to conduct an inspection.

Check That Your Sump Pump Works

Don’t wait until it rains before you test your sump pump. While it is still dry outside, pour water into the sump pit and check whether the pump turns on. If the pump starts up and drains the water as normal, you likely don’t have to do anything else.

If the water does not drain, the discharge line may be clogged. If you clear the line and the water does not drain, the float switch may be faulty, or the motor is broken.

If this is the case, a plumber can help identify the exact problem and do a repair or replacement.

Test All Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures

Check for more leaks or dripping faucets outside your property. These issues should be fixed quickly to prevent water waste and high water bills.

Inspect all garden hoses for leaks or cracks. You will have to replace them if there is a lot of damage. You should also check your irrigation systems at least twice yearly, including in the spring.

You want to check that there are no blockages and that all the sprinkler heads work properly.

Gutter and Downspout Maintenance

Your gutters and downspouts help direct rainwater away from your roof and foundation. But they can only do this if they are damage-free. Regularly clean your gutters to prevent a buildup of debris and wet leaves.

Check whether your gutters are firmly attached, especially after winter or rainstorms. You should also ensure that your downspouts are properly aligned to direct the water at least five feet away from your home.

Creating a Personalized Spring Plumbing Plan

Use the above steps to create a spring plumbing maintenance plan tailored to your La Porte home.

• Conduct a comprehensive inspection indoors and outdoors and document all the issues you find.
• Prioritize the most vulnerable areas in your home, like exposed pipes, outdoor fixtures, and basements.
• Implement modern, energy-efficient fixtures whenever possible.
• Schedule professional checkups at least twice a year to catch issues you may have missed.

Contact Summers PHC for Expert Plumbing Assistance

Take the most important step toward a worry-free spring: Contact Summers PHC for a professional plumbing inspection, maintenance, and repairs.

We are dedicated to ensuring your plumbing system stays efficient throughout the year.

Call us at 219-797-6185 for more information or book a service online. Check out our eye-popping local specials, too.