As spring blossoms around us, our focus shifts to the vibrant renewal of the season. Yet, amidst the spring-cleaning and organizing frenzy that the spring bug brings, don’t overlook your plumbing system! After enduring the winter season, your plumbing system needs some seasonal care to keep it running smoothly for the sunny days ahead. Overlooking certain components now might mean pricey repairs later. So, don’t delay. Today, Pickerington Plumbing & Drain is here to equip you with our handy spring preparation tips to safeguard your home and plumbing for a worry-free spring season.
1. Check Your Water Heater
Your water heater works hard to provide hot water whenever you need it. As the warm spring days approach, it’s easy to overlook its care. But now is the ideal moment to give it some love and check it out to ensure it’s in top shape!
- Temperature Inspection: First off, take a moment to double-check that your water heater is set to the ideal temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit or a tad lower as per the CPSC (The Consumer Product Safety Commission).
- Visual Inspection: Check for signs of corrosion, rusty valves, or other oddities. If you spot anything unusual, don’t wait! Get a professional to check it out. Addressing issues early saves you from bigger problems down the line. So, stay ahead of the game if there is anything out of the usual.
- Audible Inspection: Strange noises also serve as an early warning sign, hinting that your system might be under strain. If you catch an odd sound that’s out of the blue, it’s your cue to reach out to a professional. From sizzling to hissing or even crackling sounds, it could be a sign that your water heater is in need of a flush.
- Cleaning Inspection: You may find the area around the water heater full of dust and dirt. If this is the case with yours, take a moment to gently sweep around the unit. You can use a vacuum with a nozzle attachment if needed. Just be sure to practice caution and move slowly. If the unit itself is layered with dust, carefully wipe down the water heater with a damp cloth. Be sure to wipe it dry afterward.
Keep in mind, a water heater usually lasts around 8-12 years, but its fate depends on how well you care for it maintenance-wise. If yours is nearing this mark, it could be the perfect moment to think about a new one!
Fun Fact: Did you know the first day of spring in 2024 is on March 19th?
2. Check Your Sump Pump
For homes equipped with a sump pump, remember, early spring marks the start of high-water tables season. It’s the rainy season, after all! So, making sure your sump pump is primed and ready to tackle the load can avert disasters like basement floods. Protecting your valuables and the stability of your home is an investment you’ll always appreciate.
- Test Check: To kick things off, let’s ensure your sump pump is primed and ready to leap into action. If the sump pump does not turn on or respond as it should, you can try troubleshooting it. Click here for some information on how to troubleshoot your sump pump or feel free to give us a call so we can come diagnose your issue for you!
- Pit Check: Thirdly, don’t forget to clear out any debris or sediment that has gathered in the pit. Ensure there’s no loose gunk or particles lurking inside that could clog up the pump and make it less effective. If you spot any, gently get rid of it. Also, double-check that the sump pump lid is snugly in place over the pit to prevent any debris from sneaking in. And remember, keep the area surrounding the sump pump tidy and clutter-free. This simple step can save you from plumbing troubles down the line!
3. Check Your Indoor Drains
As spring nears, your home’s drains face a tough challenge. So, it’s a great idea to make sure they are set up to succeed for the upcoming season!
- Kitchen Sink: If you’ve got a garbage disposal, give it a whirl to ensure it’s still kicking and the water’s flowing smoothly. Your kitchen buddy deserves some love, too! Spruce up your sink drain with a natural mix of baking soda and vinegar. For a fresh twist, a splash of lemon juice adds a lovely scent! Skip the harsh chemicals, though; they can do more harm than good to your pipes.
- Bathroom Sink, Tub, Shower & Toilet: Make sure your bathroom drains stay squeaky clean and clog-free by giving them some TLC! Start by gently removing those drain stoppers and screens in your bathroom sink, tubs, and showers. Remove any hair and gunk buildup. Once you’ve cleared any potential blockages, put them to the test – let the water flow freely and verify if it is draining smoothly. Lastly, don’t forget to check that your toilets flush properly are not backed up.
- Floor Drains: Sweep around your floor drains and clean up any stray hairs, dust bunnies, and rogue particles. You can pour a bit of hot water down the drains to prep them for action. If they need some extra TLC, you can also utilize vinegar and baking soda for a refreshing cleanse. Just give everything a good rinse with water after so no residue is left behind.
4. Check Your Gutters, Downspouts, & Outdoor Drains
Your gutters and downspouts play a vital role in diverting water from your home. Don’t overlook this in your spring-cleaning routine! Blocked gutters and downspouts can lead to water pooling near your foundation, causing damage that could have been avoided.
*Most importantly, prioritize your safety above all else. If you’re not comfortable with climbing a ladder or lack the proper tools, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for help instead. Your safety is number one!
- Clean the Gutters: Prepare your ladder, gloves, and cleaning gear to tackle your gutters. While they might not need cleaning just yet, it’s crucial to inspect them before the April showers pour down! If you find anything that needs to be cleaned out from your gutters, carefully do so.
- Clean the Downspouts: Don’t forget about downspouts when checking your gutters! They’re just as crucial for your gutter system. Your gutters might be clean, but if your downspouts are clogged, water needs a clear path to flow. So, remember to inspect them too. If required, you can carefully remove the bottom piece to ensure it’s clear of blockages. Clear out the debris and put it back in place.
- Clean the Outdoor Drains: It’s a common sight for loose leaves, delicate flower petals, twigs, and mud to form a gathering over drains. Take a moment to inspect all the outdoor drains in your yard and around your home, ensuring that nothing is impeding their function. If you spot any obstructions, gently clear them with a rake or outdoor broom.
By keeping your gutters, downspouts, and outdoor drains clear, you’re safeguarding your plumbing and ensuring your home stands strong against erosion and flooding. It’s a win-win situation all the way!
By incorporating these four plumbing checks into your seasonal home maintenance routine, you’re not just averting potential disasters but also extending the lifespan of your plumbing system. Keep in mind that certain tasks may necessitate professional assistance, so don’t hesitate to reach out to a skilled plumber like Pickerington Plumbing & Drain for any issues beyond your comfort zone.
Call Pickerington Plumbing & Drain today at (614) 350-1955, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
