As the winter snow melts away, temperatures start increasing, and flowers begin to bloom, springtime is the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate your home—and that includes your plumbing system. With the transition to warmer weather, it’s essential to ensure that your plumbing is ready to handle the increased usage that often accompanies the season.
In this guide, we’ll explore eight essential homeowner maintenance tasks to add to your spring to-do list. This will help you prepare your plumbing system for spring and hopefully avoid the need to call our professional plumbers in Salt Lake City down the road.
1. Turn On Outdoor Faucets
Many homeowners shut off and drain outdoor faucets during the winter to prevent freezing. In the spring, turn these faucets back on and check for any leaks or damage that may have occurred over the winter.
2. Inspect and Clean Gutters and Downspouts
While not directly related to plumbing fixtures, maintaining clean gutters and downspouts is crucial for proper drainage around the home. Clogged gutters can lead to water backup and potential damage to the foundation, which can indirectly affect outdoor plumbing.
3. Check Sprinkler Systems
For homes with automated sprinkler systems, spring is the time to inspect and test the system before the growing season begins. This includes checking for leaks, adjusting sprinkler heads, and programming the system for optimal watering schedules.
4. Inspect Outdoor Pipes and Irrigation Lines
Outdoor pipes, including irrigation lines and outdoor plumbing fixtures, should be inspected for damage caused by freezing temperatures or shifting soil during the winter. Any cracks or leaks should be repaired promptly by one of our plumbers to prevent water waste and potential water damage to the property.
5. Clean and Maintain Outdoor Drains
Outdoor drains, such as those in driveways, patios, and landscaping areas, can become clogged with debris over the winter. Homeowners should clear away any debris and ensure that drains are functioning properly to prevent water buildup and potential flooding during spring rains.
6. Check Outdoor Gas Appliances
If you have a BBQ, grill, fire pit, patio heater, or any other outdoor gas appliance that connects to a gas line, check the connectors and fittings for any signs of damage, corrosion, or leaks before you start using them.
7. Inspect Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures
Outdoor plumbing fixtures such as outdoor sinks, showers, and hose connections should be inspected for leaks, damage, or deterioration. Any issues should be addressed promptly to prevent water waste and potential damage to the fixtures.
8. Check for Leaks
Check for leaks throughout your home by inspecting faucets, both indoors and outdoors, for any signs of dripping or pooling water. Don’t forget to examine pipes under sinks and around appliances for leaks as well. Even a small leak can waste a significant amount of water over time and potentially cause damage to your home’s infrastructure.
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