If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think too much about your plumbing until there’s a problem. But plumbing problems can occur at any time of year, not just during the cold winter months. Here are some tips to help keep your plumbing in good shape during all four seasons. Following these tips could save you time, money, and an emergency call to the plumbers.
Spring Plumbing Maintenance Tips
April showers bring May flowers. And a host of other problems. Plantlife grows faster this time of year. Which can lead to blockages in the future.
Stop Slow Leaks
If you winterized your outdoor spigots, when you turn them back on is a good time to check for leaks. To make sure you don’t have any slow leaks, check the reading on your water meter a couple of hours after using it.
Check for Corroded Pipes
You can also look for leaks by noticing puddles or marks on pipes. A plumber will have the expertise to find these problems, so it is best they do their job!
Service Infrequently-used Drains
To prevent odors from entering your home, pour a gallon of water down the drain. This will fill up and cover any traps that might be generated by food debris or grease being deposited into them over time which can cause bad smells if not cleaned regularly!
Summer Plumbing Maintenance Tips
The summer is a great opportunity to take advantage of the landscaping and recreation areas. You can also be proactive by cleaning and maintaining your various outdoor plumbing systems.
Pump Septic System
It’s important to have your septic system pumped whenever necessary. Look for areas of the lawn that look either dead or growing faster than other areas near your septic tank. This could mean the leach lines are not performing correctly and are in need of service.
Clear Blocked Drains
Keep track of any stoppages. If you notice a reoccurring blockage take note and schedule maintenance to perform routine cleaning to prevent future issues.
Clean Sewer Main
If tree roots are regularly causing problems, consider removing the trees with problem-prone root systems so they don’t cause plumbing issues in future years as well! Consider scheduling a video inspection if you suspect roots might be an issue.
Prevent a Landscaping Flood
Cleaning out embedded sprinkler heads can also help avoid unexpected repairs at home or during an emergency. You might not always know if there was a leak before the damage occurred due to unknown reasons such as heavy rains which may rinse away evidence that would otherwise pinpoint where water entered onto property lines.
Fall Plumbing Maintenance Tips
Time to enjoy the foliage. It’s also time to rake up the leaves and prepare the pipes for winter. If you removed any insulation on your plumbing–now is the time to put it back.
Winterize Outdoor Spigots
You must protect your outdoor spigots from freezing winters! To do so, simply disconnect the water hose and drain any remaining liquid in wintertime. Then cover it up with insulation foam to keep out those cold rains or snowfall that could damage pipes inside of homes.
Check Water Heater for Leaks
The water heater should be at least 120 degrees and you can’t forget to test the pressure! If you notice water pooling or dripping under the unit this is an indicator it needs to be replaced.
Clean Gutters
Clean out the gutters to get rid of any debris that might be clogging them, and hose them down after to check for leaks and confirm they are operational.
Winter Plumbing Maintenance Tips
The best way I’ve found for maintaining drainage in my house is with periodic maintenance – so annually, every 12 months (or more frequently) have someone come out snaking all those pesky drains again before they get clogged.
Inspect Water-using Appliances
Inspect the hoses on any appliances that use water, such as your dishwasher and washing machine for cracks or wear. If you find anything suspicious replace them right away!
Check Toilet Bowl & Tank for Leaks
To check for leaks, Open the toilet tank and put in some food coloring then wait to see if the color goes to the bowl without flushing. You’ll know if there’s a leak within 30 minutes!
Confirm Sump Pump is Working
The cold usually means drier conditions perfect to service your sump pump. Test that the unit is working properly by pouring some water into the sump pit and making sure that the water is being pumped out.