Spring is almost here and that means it’s time for spring cleaning. But spring cleaning should be more than just focusing on the inside of your home. After being exposed to the winter cold, your pipes drains and water heaters could use a little TLC. Check out this list of plumbing tasks and consider adding them to your spring cleaning checklist!
Outdoors:
- Flush your sprinkler system and check for leaks. If any water was left in the system before the cold weather it could have caused damage as the water froze.
- Check your gutters and downspouts for clogged debris and inspect them for damage. Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to water damage to the roof and the rest of your home. Clear out any mold or algae that has grown in wet spaces.
- Clean any patio or outdoor drains, make sure water is flowing down and through the drain properly.
- Remove temporary outdoor insulation, like pipe insulation and faucet covers.
- Check faucets and hose bibs to make sure water flows freely and there are no drips, leaks or cracks.
- Check garden hoses for splits and cracks, replace them before they are needed.
- Check for animal nests inside of any plumbing vents or surrounding areas.
Indoors:
- Drain and flush your water heater to clear away any accumulated sediments. Doing this will extend the life and efficiency of your heater.
- Make sure your water heater temperature is set at a level you like. If it’s too high you could burn yourself. Having your water heater turned up too high can waste energy heating it to a temperature you won’t use. Your water heater should be no higher than 120°. If your water heater is over 15 years old, now is a good time to consider replacing it. Newer heaters are more energy efficient. Make sure flammables are not stored near the water heater or furnace.
- Inspect and replace hoses from your washing machine, dishwasher, and ice dispenser. Hoses should not have any bulges, cracks, or discoloration. Consider replacing any rubber hoses with steel hoses to prevent future problems.
- Check any exposed pipes inside cabinets for leaks.
- Check for leaks in places you don’t normally go in, such as a basement, crawlspace, or attic. A good way to check for leaks where you can’t see them is to record the reading on your water meter before you go to bed and again after waking up. If you haven’t used water overnight and the meter has changed you might have a leak.
- Clean your dishwasher drain and unclog any blocked holes in its sprayer arm.
- Check your toilet for leaks by adding food coloring to the water tank. If the color appears in the bowl after 30 minutes the tank is leaking and should be repaired. Replace your toilet if there are any cracks in the bowl or tank. If the toilet doesn’t flush properly, it’s a great time to replace worn tank parts. Toilet repairs are typically inexpensive and can save you money on your water bill.
- Clean your shower heads by tying a bag of vinegar around your shower head and leaving it overnight. This will remove any built-up mineral deposits.
- If you live in an area that floods easily, consider installing a flood alarm, it works like a smoke alarm and goes off when it comes in contact with water. This alarm can alert you to any floods or leaks.
Need help with any maintenance or want to get your plumbing inspected by a pro? Contact Norfolk Plumbing, we’ll make sure your systems are running at their best. Call (757) 466-0644 today.