Spring is in full force, and summer will be here before we know it. For most homeowners, that means clearing off their patios and getting their yards ready for the warm weather ahead, but have you thought about your plumbing? Now is the time to do a full plumbing check (indoor and out) to ensure everything will work as expected. If ignored, you could be looking at a summer plumbing mishap that could have so easily been avoided.
So when adding plumbing to your spring and summer prep list, here’s what to keep in mind:
Head Outside
Your outdoor plumbing is the first place you’ll want to start. This is because it probably hasn’t been touched since last season, making it critical to check for any issues now before you need it.
Inspect Your Sprinklers
You may have blown out your sprinklers before winter, but if you haven’t this step is vital. You’ll want to flush out your sprinklers to look for leaks. If you have an irrigation system, leaks can often be invisible. Not to worry, though, finding these leaks are easier than you might think. Check your water meter at the end of the night and if there are any changes the next morning, you may have a leak you’ll want to get fixed.
Check Your Gutters
The winter weather could have done a number on your gutters. That’s why it’s important to schedule a gutter cleaning and inspection. This can help you identify any damage before it causes any other issues. Clogged gutters can cause water overflow, and ultimately damage the side of your home. You’ll also want to clear off your patio drains and look to see if the water is draining as it should.
Outdoor Faucets
Turn on and check your outdoor faucet to see if it’s efficiently working as it should. Oftentimes, a simple worn out washer can lead to a leak. Though it might seem like a small leak, over time, the water can add up, seep into the ground and potentially damage your home’s foundation. If your faucet looks worn out or rusted, it might also need to be partially or entirely replaced. While you’re here, check your garden hoses for splits, cracks and any other issues and replace if needed.
The Inside Issues
Now that the outside is taken care of, it’s time to make sure the inside is also in tip-top shape. Here’s what you want to keep in mind:
Check Your Water Heater
If you haven’t thought about your water heater all year long, now is the time to schedule your annual water heater flush to remove any sediment. If your water heater is on the older side, you should consider an upgrade. A general water heater lifespan is ten years and could be costing you more in energy. A newer system, specifically a tankless heater, uses less energy since they only heat water on demand when you need it.
You’ll also want to go around your home and look for any other plumbing issues that might have been overlooked in the past, such as constant drain clogs, slow flushing toilets, and more.
Remember to:
- Look out for leaks: no matter how small, a leak is a significant source of water waste and could potentially lead to water damage.
- Test out your sump pump: Turn it on and off again. A properly working pump will turn on right away. You can also run water through it to ensure the water gets pumped out the hole.
Call The Pros
If you find some unexpected issues, call Gibson Heating & Plumbing for fast and fair repairs. We offer 24/7 assistance, so contact us today!
