It’s that time of year again; the frost is melting, the birds are singing, and it’s time to soak up the sun. It’s also time to get started on that long spring cleaning list you’ve been avoiding. In addition to cleaning out the garage and organizing the cluttered kitchen drawers, it’s important to add plumbing maintenance to your spring to-do list. With your plumbing system holding around 15% of your home’s value, keeping it running smoothly is essential to your wallet and your sanity. Ever ignored a dripping faucet or a running toilet? Small problems can grow into large, costly ones, so it’s best to be proactive. This spring, take a little time to inspect these four areas of your home to keep your home plumbing system in good condition.
In the Kitchen
With the kitchen supplying a substantial portion of your house’s water it’s a prime candidate for developing leaks and other plumbing issues. Prevention is key.
Sinks & Drains – Avoid pouring common clog-culprits like grease and oils down the drain. They can congeal and cause drain-slowing blockages that lead to larger clogs down the line. If you have a garbage disposal always run water while the disposal is in use, and refrain from putting fibrous foods like banana peels down the drain. Run cold water for at least 15 seconds after turning the garbage disposal off to ensure that any ground up, leftover food material is flushed away.
Dishwasher- Check behind your dishwasher for any worn hoses and aim to run your dishwasher at night. This helps to maintain good water pressure throughout the day.
In the Bathroom
Since bathroom showers, sinks, and toilets are used daily, it’s good to take note of any wear and tear.
Shower – Does your shower head leak, or do you see rust? If so, there’s a good chance it’s time to replace it. If you notice any peeling caulk, it needs to be redone. Are there any cracked tiles? This seemingly innocent defect is often a sign of small leaks which should be repaired by a professional. Try to leave at least 10 minutes between showers to maintain proper water pressure. This helps avoid unnecessary stress on your plumbing system.
Toilets – When it comes to toilets, get under the lid. Set it aside, flush, and check that all the parts are working correctly. Note any leaks or parts showing signs of wear like cracks or corrosion. These can be easily replaced to avoid bigger breakdowns later on. Is there any water on the floor after flushing, or does the toilet run? If you don’t want to put up with water damage and climbing water bills, it’s best to have Big Bear Plumbing fix those problems ASAP. Also, try to remember that your toilet is not a trashcan. While many products are labeled as flushable, ideally nothing should go down the toilet besides human waste and toilet paper.
Sinks – Run the water. If the drain seems sluggish, it may be time to get them cleaned out. While you can rinse out the P-traps yourself with a little research, you can avoid the mess by calling in a pro. Though it’s tempting, try not to use any popular chemical clog removers. They may seem like easy fixes, but they have the potential to corrode your pipes. Under the sink, check all visible pipes for signs of corrosion, like discoloring or rust. All corroded pipes should be replaced.
The Water Heater and Washing Machine
Check the temperature setting on your water heater. It should be kept at 120 degrees for best performance and longevity. Sediment build up is another factor that affects the lifespan of your water heater. Flush it out to remove corrosion-causing particles and improve efficiency. Washing machines also require some TLC. Like with your dishwasher, heck all pipes and hoses behind your washing machine. Big Bear Plumbing can replace any cracked or bulging hoses, which need replacing before they burst and cause serious water damage.
The Great Outdoors
As the weather warms, birds begin to build nests in all kinds of inconvenient places. Check your gutters, downspouts, and plumbing vents for any nests. Turn on and off outdoor spigots to make sure there are no leaks. Even a slow drip wastes water and adds to your water bill.
Spring Maintenance with Big Bear Plumbing
Spring is an exciting time to get out and enjoy the sunshine, but leaks, floods, mold, and mildew can keep you inside dealing with expensive repairs. Before you celebrate the melting snow, run through this checklist to find and address any plumbing problems before they become major headaches. Check all visible pipes and connections for corrosion and leaks, and pay attention to water spots, bubbling paint, and malfunctioning appliances. If you notice any issues with your home plumbing system, the seasoned experts at Big Bear Plumbing can evaluate and repair the problem at a convenient time for you.
If you are looking for a Big Bear plumbing, heating & air conditioning contractor, please call (909) 584-4376 or complete our online request form.
Category: Plumbing
