With the onset of Spring, many people are quick to start tackling their home maintenance and home improvement projects. And since your homes plumbing system is one of the most important systems in your home, plumbing maintenance should be on your spring cleaning checklist. Here are some plumbing tips for spring that can help prevent plumbing problems and keep you comfortable all year long.
Springtime Drain Cleaning
Drain cleaning is one of the most important things you can do for your plumbing system. Springtime makes the perfect time of year to get your annual drain cleaning done, as the weather has improved, the winter storms are over, and all of the holiday entertaining is behind you. Drain cleaning is important to keep your drains working properly. Soap scum, grease, food particles, hair, you name it, collects over time in your pipes. This forms a sludge that can eventually cause clogs. Cleaning this sludge at regular intervals can help keep things moving. In addition, after the winter storms have passed, having your drains cleaned is a good idea to remove any debris that could have gotten swept into your plumbing.
Leak Detection
Leak detection is another important plumbing tips for spring. Undetected leaks can waste thousands of gallons of water a year. Faucets, shower heads, and toilets should all be checked, as well as water supply lines to fixtures and appliances. In addition, knowing how to spot the early signs of a leak are also important, these include:
- Unexplained puddles
- Saturated ground
- Buckling of wood floors
- Visible signs of water damage
- The smell of mold or mildew
- The sound of dripping, running, or rushing water
- Higher than usual water bill
- Extra green patches in your yard
Remember some leaks can go undetected if they are hidden behind walls or under your floors. Hiring a professional leak detection specialist may be the best way to detect these leaks early on. Early detection is crucial to prevent damage and waste.
Seal Your Home
A home that is well insulated and sealed is a more efficient home. Properly sealing your home can help keep your utility costs down, as you start running your AC as the weather gets warmer. In addition to keeping your operating costs down and your home at a comfortable temperature, sealing your home can also keep out unwanted pests. Vermin and other pests can easily gain access into your home through gasp around plumbing pipes and utility lines, through cracked pipes, unprotected vent stacks, and even through your sewer. Many of these pests bring with them destructive behavior and health hazards, so keeping them out is a must. Start making sure all entry points are properly sealed around pipes and utility lines and that your vent stack as a filter on it. You will also want to be proactive with damaged or cracked pipes, as these can cause other issues as well. If vermine are gaining access through your toilet, install a multi-flap to keep them out.
A plumbing inspection is a great way to see what condition your plumbing is in, and make repairs before there is an issue. To schedule your springtime plumbing inspection or for other plumbing tips contact Lesco Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling today!
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