8 Essential Spring Plumbing Tips for Homeowners

Ah, spring! The season of blooming flowers, warmer weather, and yes–spring cleaning. While you’re tidying up and deep cleaning your home, it’s also the perfect time to check your plumbing! Winter can take a toll on pipes and fixtures, and a little proactive care can save you time and money. At Z PLUMBERZ, we are here to help! Use this checklist to help ensure everything is functioning properly and help prevent potential issues as we move into the warmer months ahead.

1. Inspect for Leaks

• Under sinks: Look for any visible drips or water damage around faucets, pipes, and drains. 
• Around toilets: Check for leaks at the base or from the tank using food coloring in the tank water. 
• Water meter check: Turn off all water sources, and if the meter (usually a small red, compass-like dial as pictured here) is still moving, it may indicate a hidden leak.
• Pro tip: Save time by putting tissue paper or toilet paper where you think a slow leak may be. It will show signs of very slow water drips.

2. Test Faucets and Showers

• Test water pressure: Turn on all faucets and showers to check for consistent water pressure. Low pressure could mean a clogged aerator or pipe buildup. 
• Check for hot water: Ensure your water heater is working properly by checking your faucets for hot water. If one faucet does not provide hot water, check other faucets to determine if it is an isolated issue vs. the entire home.
• Pro tip: If it takes too long to heat up, consider having a recirculating line (which will help get hot water to your fixture faster) installed to save water and time.

3. Examine the Water Heater

• Inspect tank: Check for leaks, rust, or corrosion, especially around the base and valves. 
• Flush the water heater: This removes sediment buildup, which can reduce efficiency and shorten its lifespan. If you hear popping sounds coming from your water heater tank, it’s a clear sign of excessive sediment buildup and a reminder that it’s long overdue for a flush. Water heaters generally have a life expectancy of 10-20 years but gradually lose effectiveness over time. Performing these maintenance checks can help you get the most out of your water heater. 
• Pro tip: Set the temperature to around 120°F for safety. Scalding occurs in just one second at 140°F, whereas it takes four minutes at 120°F. 

4. Check Drains and Gutters

• Clean gutters and downspouts: This will help prevent water backups that could cause plumbing issues or wet basements. 
• Check Drains: Run water down drains in sinks, tubs, and showers to ensure they are flowing freely. If you notice slow draining, consider using a drain cleaner or plumbing snake. 
• Flush Out Rarely Used Drains: Water evaporating from traps of rarely used bathtubs, sinks, and floor drains can cause foul odors. Pour a gallon of water down these drains monthly to prevent this.

5. Examine Outdoor Plumbing 

• Inspect outdoor faucets and hoses: Check for leaks or damage. Make sure hoses are properly attached and that there is no standing water. If a hose was left connected to the outdoor faucet (also known as a sillcock), be sure to inspect your crawl space or basement for damage to the pipes. 
• Check irrigation systems: Inspect for leaks and/or blockages. 
• Test and inspect your sump pump: Make sure it is ready to handle spring thaws and heavy rains. Also be sure to verify the discharge pipe extends away from your home’s foundation. 

6. Inspect Pipes for Freezing Damage

• Check indoor, exposed pipes: These are located in your basement or crawl space. Inspect for cracks or leaks caused by winter freezing. 
• Pro tip: Open crawl space vents for better air circulation during the warmer months, and keep them closed in the winter.

7. Test the Main Shut-Off Valve

• Check main water valve: Locate and test your home’s main water shut-off valve to ensure it works properly in case of an emergency. 
• Pro Tip: Test your water shut-off valve after testing the water meter. There are two valves on the water meter, and if the valve before the meter has an issue, you may be stuck without water until the city and a plumber come to fix it.

8. Look for Signs of Mold or Mildew

• Check areas prone to moisture for signs of mold: Areas such as bathrooms, basements, and under sinks are prone to mold or mildew. Inspect all of these areas closely. Mold and mildew can indicate poor ventilation or a leak. 
• Pro tip: If you do find mold or mildew, it is important to contact a professional plumber to assess the situation and get to the root cause to mitigate further damage. 

Spring is the perfect time to give your plumbing system some much-needed attention after the wear and tear of winter. By following these simple yet effective steps, you can help safeguard your home against costly repairs, improve efficiency, and help ensure everything is running smoothly as you enjoy the warmer months ahead. Click here for a printable checklist!

At Z PLUMBERZ, we’re here to help with any plumbing needs, big or small. So if you discover anything as you carry out this spring maintenance, we’ve got you covered! Reach out to your local plumbing expert today!