As spring rolls in, our focus naturally shifts to the beauty of the new season. For many homeowners, spring is also a great time for some serious cleaning. Whether that’s deep cleaning or finally tackling that organization project that’s been on your to-do list for way too long, don’t forget about your plumbing system! After enduring the winter months, your plumbing could use a little seasonal TLC to keep it running smoothly for the upcoming season. Neglecting certain parts might end up costing you a lot in repairs later on. So, why not take care of it today? Miamisburg Plumbing & Drain is here to share some handy spring preparation tips to help you protect your home and plumbing. Get ready for the spring showers with confidence!
1. Check Your Water Heater
Your water heater is always there to give you hot water when you need it. As spring approaches and the weather warms up, it might be easy to overlook your water heater. But now’s a great time to give it a quick check for any maintenance it might need!
- Temperature Check: First off, just make sure your water heater’s temp is set to the recommended level (around 120°F or a bit lower as per CPSC guidelines).
- Visual Check: Take a peek at your water heater for any signs of corrosion on the valves and connections. If you spot rust or anything unusual, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional to check it out. Better safe than sorry!
- Audible Check: Strange noises can be an early heads-up that your system might be unnecessarily strained. So, if you catch an unusual sound, that’s your cue to contact a professional. Sizzling, hissing, or even crackling noises? Your water heater might just be due for a flush, but a professional plumber can verify that for you.
- Cleaning Check: 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.
A water heater usually lasts around 8-12 years with good maintenance. If yours is getting close to that range, it could be a good idea to think about getting a new one.
Fun Fact to Think About: The first day of spring in 2024 is on March 19th!
2. Check Your Sump Pump
If you’ve got a sump pump at home, remember that early spring brings high-water tables. It’s the rainy season, of course. So, making sure your sump pump is all set and good to go can prevent stuff like basement floods. Protecting your stuff and your home’s structure is always a smart move you won’t regret!
- Does It Respond? First off, make sure your sump pump is good to go. Test its response by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit to see if the pump kicks in as it should. 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 diagnose your issue for you!
- Is the Pit Clear? Make sure to get rid of any debris or sediment that’s built up in the pit. So, peek in the pit of the sump pump to confirm there are no loose particles inside that could clog the pump and make it less effective. If you spot anything, gently clear it out. Also, double-check that the sump pump lid is snugly on to prevent any debris from getting in. Moreover, keep the area around the pump tidy and clutter-free. Doing this will help avoid any plumbing issues from popping up in the future!
3. Check Your Indoor Drains
April showers bring… clogged drains? Well, maybe not exactly how the saying goes! Simply put, during the rainy spring season, your home’s drains face a real challenge. Debris buildup can block proper drainage, causing water to collect and potentially overflow – definitely something you want to avoid! So, keeping your drains clean, clear, and in good shape is key to staying ready for spring!
- Kitchen Sink: If you’ve got a garbage disposal, turn it on to make sure it’s running smoothly and draining well. It’s a key part of your kitchen, so show it some love every now and then. Additionally, you can freshen up your sink drain with baking soda and vinegar or add some lemon juice for a nice scent! It’s best to avoid harsh chemical cleaners to prevent damage to your pipes.
- Bathroom Sink, Tub, Shower & Toilet: You’ll want to check your bathroom drains now to keep them clean and clear without any gunk or blockages. Just pop off the drain stoppers and screens in your bathroom sink, tubs, and showers. Clear out any hair or buildup you find. Once you’ve done that, test them by letting the water run to ensure everything’s draining smoothly. Also, make sure your toilets flush properly, they aren’t constantly running, and aren’t backing up.
- Floor Drains: Sweep around your floor drains and tidy up any stray hair, dust, and loose bits around them. You can even pour hot water down the floor drains to keep them primed for use. If they need extra cleaning, vinegar and baking soda work well. Just rinse everything away with water afterward, as you don’t want any residue buildup left behind.
4. Check Your Gutters, Downspouts, & Outdoor Drains
Your gutters and downspouts play a crucial role in directing water away from your home. If your gutters get clogged, water can pool near your foundation, potentially causing issues.
*First and foremost, make sure safety comes first. If you’re not comfortable climbing a ladder or lack the proper tools, it’s totally okay to reach out to a professional for help instead.
- Check the Gutters: Grab your ladder, gloves, and cleaning tools to tackle those gutters. They might not need cleaning yet, but it’s worth checking before the April showers pour down! Clear out any leaves or debris if you find any.
- Check the Downspouts: Don’t forget about the downspouts in your gutter check. They’re just as crucial in your gutter system. Even if your gutters are clean, if the downspouts are clogged, the water still needs a way out. So, check them, too. Sometimes, you can remove the bottom piece to ensure it’s clear. Then, remove any leaves and twigs and pop it back in place. If necessary, use a downspout extension to redirect the water further away.
- Check the Outdoor Drains: It’s pretty normal for leaves, flower petals, sticks, and mud to gather over drains. Just give all your outdoor drains a quick check around your yard and house to make sure they’re not blocked. If you see anything that needs clearing, you can use a rake or outdoor broom to take care of it.
By keeping your gutters, downspouts, and outdoor drains clear, you’re protecting your plumbing and home from erosion and flooding. It’s a win-win situation!
By adding these four plumbing checks to your seasonal home maintenance, you’re not just avoiding potential disasters but also extending your plumbing’s lifespan. Remember, for tasks beyond your expertise, it’s wise to reach out to a professional plumber like Miamisburg Plumbing & Drain.
Call Miamisburg Plumbing & Drain today at (937) 705-0297, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!