Spring is on its way, and with it, more opportunities for rain. Before you break out the patio furniture and put the pansies in the flower boxes, you’re going to want to inspect your home’s plumbing to make sure it’s ready for April showers and the summer months. 

The good news about our spring plumbing check list is that it’s full of tasks that require very little time, plumbing know how, or cost. With just a few hours spent inspecting your home – from the basement to the roof – you can relax, knowing your home is all set for those beautiful spring days ahead. 

Spring plumbing checklist 

Investigate outdoor spouts for leaks 

During the cold winter months, your outdoor pipes and spouts can freeze, break or crack, especially if they are older. To make sure your pipes and spouts are intact and ready for the warm summer months ahead, check when you first hook up your hose and sprinklers. If you see any leaks in your home or in your home’s foundation, there’s a good chance your pipes cracked during the winter. 

Inspect and drain your hot water heater 

Ideally, your hot water heater should be kept at 120 degrees. If you turned up the temperature during winter, it’s time to take it back down. When you do, take a moment to check for any leaks or puddles around the base of the tank, and for any rust or other kind of corrosion. If you see any of the above, give us a call. You’ll need a professional to properly diagnose and fix the issue. 

Additionally, it’s a good time to drain the sediment from your water heater which can help extend its life for years. If you’ve never performed this task or feel more comfortable leaving it up to a professional, give us a call.   

Clean your gutters 

During the fall and winter months your gutters collect twigs, leaves and debris. In turn, your gutters can clog, which is the last thing you want when those April showers arrive.  This is the perfect time of the year to get your gutters cleaned because debris-blocked gutters can lead to pricey leaks in your home’s foundation.    

Check supply hoses

This is also a great time to inspect all the supply hoses in your house, including the ones that attach to your washing machine and dishwasher. Look for any puddles, rust or other types of corrosion that may indicate a leak that needs repaired, or a hose that needs replaced. 

Make sure the sump pump is working properly 

This is a big one. If your home has a sump pump, you need to check it after winter and before spring gets going. The pump needs to be up to the challenge of keeping the basement free of water during the rainy season. 

Checking the sump pump is a very easy task. Simply pour a few buckets of water down the sump pit. If the sump pump is working properly it will turn on as soon as the water is poured, and the turn off once the water has emptied. Tip: You can eliminate any mold that grew in the sump pump over winter by adding a few teaspoons of vinegar to the bucket of water. 

Install flood alarms 

This is especially important if you live along the Ohio River, the Little Miami or another area prone to flash flooding. Flood alarms are worth the investment and could save you time and money in the long run if your home is damaged by flood waters. 

Not sure you’re up to some of the tasks at hand or notice a leak, crack or puddle? Contact a professional plumber who can help you locate the source of the problem and make the repair quickly.  Call or Contact the at Allied Reddi-Rooter, 513-396-5300.  We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.