As the sun rises earlier and days grow warmer, all signs point to one conclusion – spring is near! To ensure your home is prepared for this new season, it’s time to get your plumbing system ready. Take advantage of our Bellbrook Plumbing & Drain expert’s tips and tricks on how you can make your home fully prepped before April rolls around.
WHAT ARE THE WAYS TO PREPARE YOUR PLUMBING SYSTEM FOR EARLY SPRING?
- CHECK OUT YOUR FAUCETS & SINKS: Your sinks and faucets get used frequently, so it’s essential to make sure they’re functioning to their highest capacity for this next season. Check them frequently throughout the year (preferably each season) for leaks or other damage. Even the slightest leaks can go undetected if left unchecked. Moreover, it would be wise to check underneath your sink too, and confirm that any pipes and fixtures are not corroded or rusty before spring arrives!
- CHECK OUT YOUR TOILETS: Beware of sneaky leaky toilets! Ignoring these issues can result in costly damage over time. If you notice water consistently pooling around your toilet, or if the water seems to never turn off, it’s likely a pesky leak. If you find this to be an issue, act quickly and get this resolved promptly before any further harm is done.
- CHECK YOUR OUTDOOR FAUCETS: At the start of spring, inspect all outdoor faucets to ensure they are working properly. As you turn them on, you may hear some “spurting” or “popping” noises; this is normal and should stop shortly as the water begins to flow. Allow it a moment to flow, then shut off the tap and remain there for a few extra minutes just in case any leaks or dripping occur. Verify that your outdoor faucets will be ready to use when needed during summertime!
- CHECK YOUR WATER HOSES: In wintertime, we remind our customers to winterize their water hoses since the cold weather can cause them to shrink. So, during this time of year, when spring is transitioning, temperatures fluctuate rapidly between warm and cool, making it paramount that we review both pipes and hoses in early springtime. That way, you avoid any costly repairs due to expanding or contracting components. Inspect them for any signs of wear, cracks, or expansions – all indications that they are no longer fit for use. If you notice any damaged areas on your hose, replace it immediately before reattaching it outdoors again in preparation for spring season.
- CHECK YOUR SUMP PUMP: As we prepare for the annual spring-cleaning ritual, now is an opportune time to clean up your sump pump as well. If you don’t know how to do so, you may refer to your owner’s manual, or please do not hesitate to give us a call to schedule an appointment with us.
- CHECK YOUR MAIN WATER VALVE: A practical yet often underestimated step is to check your main water valve if you haven’t touched it in a while. It’s always wise to give the valve a quick inspection and turn it clockwise until completely shut off. Then, wait a moment then twist the valve counterclockwise to open it once more. If you’re having difficulty opening and closing your main water shutoff, it might be time for an upgrade. In case of emergencies, being able to switch off or on this fixture without any trouble is paramount.
As you complete your spring cleaning and checklist, make sure to pay close attention to the following tips for keeping your plumbing in tip-top shape for the spring. Doing so will ensure a smooth transition into this season and save you from potential headaches down the road! However, if at any point an unexpected hiccup arises with your plumbing system, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Reach Bellbrook Plumbing & Drain today at (937) 240-3731 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!