Your Essential Spring Plumbing Checklist
Simple Steps to Prevent Problems and Keep Things Flowing
Once the coolness of winter fades and spring starts to bloom, homeowners turn their attention to tidying up, reorganizing, and refreshing their spaces. Besides cleaning out closets and planting flowers, give your plumbing system some attention, too. Thaws and seasonal shifts can have a real impact on your pipes and fixtures.
Think of frozen pipes that may have cracked during the colder months or drainage issues that heavy rains might reveal. Spring is the time to inspect, clean, and prepare your plumbing inside and out for the months ahead. Take these checklists from the expert plumbers at Al Bourgeois Plumbing & Heating.
Indoor Plumbing
Your indoor plumbing system, from hot showers to clean dishes, keeps the heart of your home running. As such, spring should be about testing for wear and tear and clearing out buildup. Here are nine things to do:
- Test Your Drains
Slowly draining sinks or tubs signal clogs or pipe buildup. Run water through all your drains and listen for unusual gurgling sounds.
- Check Your Sump Pump
Spring rains can cause flooding, so test your sump pump. Pour water into the pit, and it should activate and drain promptly.
- Look for Signs of Moisture Issues
Peek under your sinks, around toilets, and behind appliances for any symptoms of water damage.
- Inspect Grout and Caulk
Cracked or missing caulk or grout around bathtubs, showers, and sinks can lead to hidden leaks.
- Remove Water Stains on Your Faucets
Stains around your faucets point toward hard water buildup. Use a vinegar solution to clean and inspect for corrosion.
- Clean Your Shower Heads
Mineral deposits block water flow. Soak shower heads in vinegar overnight and gently scrub them with an old toothbrush.
- Change Hoses in Appliances
If your washing machine or dishwasher hoses have tears or bulges, replace them to prevent bursts.
- Clean Your Garbage Disposal
Get rid of odors or blockages, and freshen it up with a mix of ice, salt, and lemon peels.
Outdoor Plumbing
Your outdoor plumbing system handles irrigation and drainage. Every spring, ensure it is ready for the season’s rains and growth spurts. The goal is to avoid flooded yards, foundation problems, and wasted water. Here are six ways you can do that:
- Check and Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters result in water pooling around your home’s foundation. Clear out leaves, twigs, and debris for proper flow.
- Flush Sprinkler Systems
Before turning on your irrigation system, flush out stagnant water and look for broken sprinkler heads.
- Inspect Crawl Spaces
Can you find standing water, mold, or pipe leaks? Regularly observe your crawl space to address concerns right away.
- Read Your Water Meter
Turn off all the water in your house and study your meter. If it is still moving, there are plumbing leaks somewhere.
- Turn Valves On and Off
Test outdoor faucets and hose bibs to confirm the freezing temps did not damage them. Open valves slowly to probe for pressure and leaks.
- Remove Temporary Insulation Systems
If you wrapped pipes or faucets for winter, remove the insulation to see their condition underneath.
Choose Al Bourgeois Plumbing
A little spring cleaning for your plumbing system can go a long way in preventing leaks, reducing water bills, and avoiding unexpected repairs. How can Al Bourgeois Plumbing help? We have been a trusted name among the plumbing companies in the New Orleans area since 1966. As a local, family-owned company, we proudly provide reliable plumbing services with a personal touch.
Whether you need a routine checkup or emergency repairs, Al Bourgeois Plumbing’s licensed plumbers are ready to help you transition smoothly into the spring season. Request a service now!
