As the winter chill fades and the first signs of spring emerge, it’s the perfect time for homeowners to turn their attention to an often-overlooked aspect of home maintenance: the plumbing system. Months of cold weather, freezing temperatures, and heavy water usage during the holidays can take a toll on your pipes, fixtures, and appliances. Spring is not only a season of renewal but also the ideal time to inspect, maintain, and prepare your plumbing system for the warmer months ahead.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through essential spring plumbing tips that every homeowner should know. Whether you’re a new homeowner or a seasoned DIYer, these practical steps can help prevent costly repairs, increase efficiency, and give you peace of mind throughout the season.
1. Check for Leaks in and Around Your Home
Cold temperatures can cause pipes to expand and contract, increasing the chances of cracks or leaks. As spring arrives, carefully inspect your plumbing system for any signs of leakage. Here’s where to look:
- Under sinks: Check for drips or water stains inside cabinets.
- Around toilets: Inspect the base for pooling water or discoloration.
- Basement and crawl spaces: Look for damp spots or rust around exposed pipes.
- Outdoor spigots: Turn them on and check for leaks, which may indicate damage from freezing.
Even a small, slow leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water over time—and raise your water bill. Early detection and repair can save money and prevent water damage.
2. Test Your Sump Pump
Your sump pump plays a crucial role in preventing basement flooding, especially during spring when snowmelt and rainstorms are common. Test your sump pump by:
- Pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit.
- Watching to see if the pump activates automatically.
- Ensuring the water is discharged properly away from your home’s foundation.
If your sump pump doesn’t kick on, makes strange noises, or runs slowly, it may need to be serviced or replaced. Consider having a backup battery system installed for peace of mind during power outages.
3. Clear Outdoor Drains and Gutters
Spring storms can clog outdoor drains with leaves, sticks, and other debris. Clogged drains can lead to water pooling around your home’s foundation or backing up into your basement.
Be sure to:
- Clean out all gutters and downspouts.
- Remove obstructions from yard drains and storm grates.
- Confirm that all downspouts are directing water at least 3 feet away from your home.
A little yard maintenance now can prevent water damage and expensive foundation repairs down the line.
4. Inspect Your Water Heater
Your water heater works harder during the winter months, and sediment can build up inside the tank, reducing efficiency and shortening its lifespan. Spring is a great time to give it a little TLC:
- Set the thermostat to 120°F for optimal performance and safety.
- Listen for rumbling or popping sounds, which could indicate sediment buildup.
Also, check for signs of rust, corrosion, or water around the base. If your water heater is over 10 years old, it might be time to start thinking about a replacement.
5. Examine Exterior Plumbing Fixtures
Outdoor faucets and irrigation systems often suffer from winter damage, especially if they weren’t properly winterized.
Steps to take:
- Turn on each outdoor spigot and listen for leaks inside the wall (a sign of a broken pipe).
- Replace cracked hoses or fittings.
- Inspect sprinkler heads for damage or misalignment.
- Test the irrigation system to ensure proper water pressure and coverage.
Now is also a good time to set or repair timers on automatic irrigation systems to conserve water and promote healthy landscaping.
6. Unclog Slow Drains
If you notice slow drains in sinks, tubs, or showers, don’t ignore them. This can be a sign of a partial clog that may become worse over time. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, which can damage your pipes. Instead:
- Use a plunger or drain snake to dislodge blockages.
- Flush the drain with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water.
- Consider scheduling a professional drain cleaning if multiple drains are slow or backing up.
Preventive drain maintenance now can save you from emergency plumbing calls later.
7. Inspect Toilet Components
Toilets are one of the most frequently used fixtures in your home, and small issues can waste a surprising amount of water. Here’s what to check:
- Flappers: Worn-out flappers are a common source of running toilets. Replace if they’re warped or no longer sealing properly.
- Fill valves: Ensure they shut off promptly when the tank is full.
- Leaks: Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank and wait 15–20 minutes. If the color appears in the bowl, you have a silent leak.
These quick fixes are easy and inexpensive but can have a big impact on your water bill.
8. Check the Water Main Valve
In an emergency, you need to know where your water main shut-off valve is—and make sure it works. Take a few moments to locate it (usually in a basement, crawlspace, or utility closet) and test that it turns easily.
If it’s hard to turn or stuck, consider having a plumber replace it. A working shut-off valve can prevent major flooding and water damage if a pipe bursts or leaks suddenly.
9. Look for Signs of Tree Root Intrusion
As trees wake up in spring, their roots start seeking moisture—and your underground pipes can be an attractive target. Tree root intrusion is a common cause of sewer line blockages and can result in costly repairs.
Be alert for:
- Gurgling sounds from toilets or drains.
- Frequent backups, especially in the lowest drain in the house.
- Sewer odors inside or outside your home.
A video inspection of your sewer line can identify root growth or blockages before they become disasters.
Bonus Tip: Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection
While many spring plumbing tasks are DIY-friendly, a comprehensive inspection by a licensed plumber can provide added peace of mind. A pro can identify hidden issues, test water pressure, inspect the water heater, and check for potential problems you might overlook.
Think of it as a spring check-up for your home’s health—an affordable investment compared to the cost of emergency repairs. A little maintenance now goes a long way toward avoiding big headaches later. Need help with a spring plumbing inspection or repair? Contact Restoration Plumbing today to schedule a service call. Our licensed, experienced plumbers are here to keep your home running clean, dry, and worry-free all season long.