Spring Cleaning? Try Some Spring Plumbing!

Something about the departure of winter inspires many homeowners into an annual rite of spring: a through cleaning of the entire home. While you sweep dirt from every corner and throw away accumulated junk that people gave you over the holidays, it's also a good idea to give your plumbing system some tender love and care. The following maintenance tips can help save water and prevent problems in that home you just cleaned.

Kitchen/Bathroom Plumbing

• Make sure all drains have strainers to prevent hair and debris from clogging drain lines.
• Check toilets for hidden leaks. Add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet’s tank and allow it to sit for 30 minutes. If the toilet has a leak you’ll notice the color in the toilet’s bowl. Also check around the base as water seepage can lead to floor damage and rot.
• Turn water supply valves on and off, under sinks and by the toilet, to prevent them from sticking
• Make sure that the toilet flushes properly. A toilet handle that sticks can cost a lot of extra money in lost water. It’s much cheaper to replace the inter-parts of the toilet.

Plumbing Around the House

• Pour a gallon of water into infrequently used drains. This will prevent sewer gas from coming up dried up traps. Slow drains should be snaked to prevent water damage in the event of a spring flood.
• If your home utilizes a sump pump make sure the pump is working properly. Pour a few gallons of water into the sump pit. The pump should turn on quickly, pump the water, and then shut off immediately after.
• If you have experienced sewer backups in the past have your sewer lines rooted and treated with an aquatic herbicide such as RootX to prevent stoppages and pipe damage.
• Install flood alarms in garages, crawlspaces, and under sinks. Like smoke detectors they detect water and sound an alarm. They are an inexpensive way to prevent costly flood damage.
• Inspect for slow leaks by taking a water meter reading before bedtime. Then take another reading first thing in the morning. If the number has changed you have a leak somewhere that should be fixed.

Outside Plumbing Check

• Make sure gutters, downspouts, and French drains are clear of debris.
• Check for bird nests and other debris in vent pipes.
• Check hose bibs and spigots for water leaks and to make sure they turn off properly.

Spring cleaning can be a tedious chore, but finding little leaks and problem earlier is the key to safe and clean home. Let us know if your maintenance check reveals any plumbing problems, if so we are happy to help.

Bellows Plumbing Links

<> Frequently Asked Plumbing Questions - FAQ

<> Trenchless Technology - sewer, gas & water. Save your driveway and money.

<> Saving Money & Energy with Tankless Water Heaters

<> No Waiting for Hot Water, Get Instant Hot Water

<> See what our past clients have to say about us.

<> Check out our exciting career opportunities.