Now that the cold winter days have come to an end and spring arrives, it’s time to get your plumbing system ready. Winter can do a number on your pipes, and other issues can prevent proper drainage. Getting your plumbing system ready for spring is essential to ensure you don’t experience any significant plumbing issues while enjoying your spring and summer. Here is an overview of what you can to prepare your plumbing for spring.
As soon as the weather warms up outside, performing the following tasks can prevent problems later.
#1 Check Your Sump Pump
If you have a sump pump in your basement or crawlspace, it should be checked when spring begins. The spring months tend to be rainy, and you want to be sure your sump pump is ready to power on when necessary to prevent your home from flooding during a heavy rainstorm.
To ensure the sump pump functions properly, you should check the following:
- Check the drain that leads outside to ensure there are no clogs that will prevent the unit from removing the water if the water starts flooding your home.
- Check if the pump is tilted or the float value is not in place.
- Check the wires and the battery to ensure there is no damage.
If you aren’t sure if you can detect any damage, you can hire a plumber to inspect the unit for you.
If everything checks out, it’s time to test the sump pump. Fortunately, you don’t have to wait for a severe rainstorm to do this. Fill the water pit with water until the float rises. If the sump pump turns on, it is ready for use. If the pump fails to turn on, you will need to call a plumber to figure out why the unit isn’t working, so they can make the necessary repair.
#2 Clean Your Roof and Gutters
Many people don’t realize that the gutters are part of the plumbing system, and they are responsible for allowing rainwater to drain in the right direction. If the gutters aren’t connected or clogged with leaves, the clean water will be in the wastewater system, which can be costly.
Heavy snow can affect the gutter connections, and you should make sure they are connected correctly to ensure proper drainage.
Next, clean the gutters. Clean gutters will allow the water to drain correctly, preventing water damage when it rains.
If you are uncomfortable climbing a ladder and cleaning the gutters, you can call a professional.
#3 Check the Pipe
Exposed pipes can become damaged during the winter. When the temperature descends to a freeze outside, the pipes can freeze with it. When they freeze, the water inside will freeze and expand, putting the pipes at risk for freezing. In addition, the exposed pipes will heat up when the hot water runs and then get cold when the water is off, which can create small cracks in the pipes.
When spring arrives, you should check the exposed pipes on your property for damage. If pipes are damaged, you will need a licensed plumber to make the necessary repair. They can also wrap the exposed pipes in heated tape, which will prevent damage during the winter.
#4 Test the Water Pressure
If you check the pipes for damage and don’t see anything, you should test the water pressure. There could also be a leak somewhere you haven’t previously noticed, but the water pressure will let you know. If the water pressure reduces or it sputters when coming from the faucet, there could be a leak that needs to be repaired immediately by a plumber. The longer the leak persists, the more water will leak, resulting in a considerably higher water bill.
Make sure to prepare your plumbing for spring because it’s essential to ensure you won’t face worse issues during this season and summer. It won’t take long to prepare for spring, and you will be glad you did it during the first severe rainstorm in spring. If you prefer a more thorough inspection of your plumbing system, you can call a plumber to inspect the entire system.
Contact Ford’s Plumbing and Heating at (310) 815-1515 for a free estimate on how to prepare your plumbing for spring.
