Your plumbing system is probably the last thing you think about when you are looking forward to spring. Spring, after all, conjures images of rebirth, freshness, and growth, so why worry about what condition your plumbing system? However, you should seriously reconsider. Think about it: your plumbing system is just coming off the winter season when low temperatures have wreaked havoc on the pipes and heating equipment. While some types of damage may not be obvious, they could worsen over time if you ignore them. To protect your plumbing system and make sure it is ready for spring, here are some spring plumbing tips you can use.
Perform A Visual Inspection Of Your Plumbing System
Contents
- 0.1 Perform A Visual Inspection Of Your Plumbing System
- 0.2 Unclog Your Drains
- 0.3 Check Your Sump Pump
- 0.4 Be On The Lookout For Signs Of Water Leaks
- 0.5 Have Your Water Heater Serviced
- 0.6 Don’t Forget Your Basement
- 0.7 Get Your Plumbing System Inspected
- 1 Call Robinson Plumbing For Trusted Plumbing Services
On your own, you can visually check your plumbing system for possible leaks, damages, cracks, or holes. Plumbing materials tend to shrink in very low temperatures. If there was water left in the pipes when temperatures plunged in winter, there may be some damage. As temperatures begin increasing in spring, plumbing material will begin to expand. The swelling could increase the risk of damage to the pipes and cause more serious problems later.
Unclog Your Drains
Clogged drains are inconvenient. Also, they can affect your plumbing system, particularly your pipes. Try to practice good waste disposal to keep your drains clear. Very often, prevention is better than cure. It is also less expensive.
If your drains are clogged, do not use chemical drain cleaners. Chemical cleaners are quite harsh, and these can erode the protective lining within the pipes and in the drains, counters, and sinks. Use safe but effective alternatives such as baking soda and vinegar mixed with hot (not boiling) water. However, it is always best to call a plumber for a drain cleaning service regularly.
Check Your Sump Pump
Your sump pump works harder in winter when it has to keep your drainage system operational and prevent flooding. It is only right that you have it inspected for much-needed maintenance work in the spring. Get a professional to service your sump pump at least once a year, preferably in the early spring. If it needs to be repaired or supplemented, then you will have enough time to complete what needs to be done before the snow melts.
Be On The Lookout For Signs Of Water Leaks
In winter, any leaks present in your home may be frozen, which means that the problem will go unnoticed until the temperatures start to rise. When this happens, leaks will likely appear if there is water intrusion. If you observe puddles on the floor, water spots, or musty smells, you likely have a water intrusion problem. Have these fixed immediately if you can, or better yet, call a professional to perform an inspection of your plumbing system. An early checkup will identify any potential problem so you can get it repaired right away.
Have Your Water Heater Serviced
You likely had a high demand for hot water in winter, which means your water heater worked overtime. The extra effort is expected of your heater but this also means that it has to work to capacity just to keep producing enough hot water for your needs. Call a professional to have it checked for damage or wear and tear. Also, don’t forget to have it flushed to prolong its lifespan and ensure optimal performance.
Don’t Forget Your Basement
Anything that is not readily visible on a day-to-day basis is easy to ignore. This is true of your basement plumbing. Problems that begin in the basement are often left untreated until the damage is done. Look for leaks, cracks, and breaks in the connections. Check for discoloration in the walls, floors, and ceilings, and musty or moldy smell.
Get Your Plumbing System Inspected
Unless you are trained and experienced, a thorough inspection of your plumbing system is impossible. It takes a trained eye to know exactly what to look for. Ask a professional to do it for you instead. It is likely you might have missed some critical areas or components in your plumbing system that a professional plumber can easily check. A plumber can also test the system for integrity to ensure that it is working properly and efficiently.
Call Robinson Plumbing For Trusted Plumbing Services
For reliable plumbing services, contact Robinson Plumbing, one of the Lehigh Valley’s most trusted plumbing service companies. Our plumbing services range from water leak repairs, clogged drains, to the installation of water-efficient plumbing fixtures. For any plumbing repairs, we always offer a wide range of solutions whenever possible. This way, you can choose the option that works best for your budget and family.
We are proud to offer the best and most affordable plumbing services in the area. All of our plumbers have the proper licenses and experience to ensure your satisfaction. We back all of our work with a guarantee. Contact Robinson Plumbing today to schedule a free estimate.
Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or click here to contact us for any questions that you might have!