Spring Plumbing Checklist

As winter fades and spring rolls in, homeowners often focus on spring cleaning and home improvement projects. However, one critical area that often gets overlooked is plumbing maintenance. After months of cold weather, your pipes, drains, and fixtures may have taken a beating, and now is the perfect time to inspect, repair, and prevent potential plumbing issues before they turn into costly problems.

In this blog, we’ll go over a comprehensive spring plumbing checklist to help ensure your home’s plumbing system is in top shape for the season ahead.

Why Spring Plumbing Maintenance is Important

Winter can be tough on plumbing. Freezing temperatures may have caused hidden leaks or pipe damage, heavy snowfall could have affected drainage systems, and water heaters may have worked overtime. As temperatures warm up, these issues become more noticeable, leading to leaks, water damage, or inefficient water usage.

By following this spring plumbing checklist, you can catch minor issues early and avoid expensive repairs later.

Your Spring Plumbing Checklist

✅ 1. Inspect for Leaks & Pipe Damage

• Check exposed pipes, faucets, and hose bibs for leaks, cracks, or corrosion—especially if temperatures dropped below freezing over the winter.
• Look for signs of water damage (stains, mold, damp areas) under sinks, around appliances, and in your basement.
• Run faucets both indoors and outdoors and watch for low water pressure, which may indicate a hidden leak.

✅ 2. Test Your Sump Pump

• Spring showers bring an increased risk of basement flooding. Test your sump pump by pouring water into the pit to ensure it activates properly.
• If your sump pump isn’t working efficiently, consider cleaning or replacing the unit before heavy rainfall begins.

✅ 3. Clean Out Gutters & Outdoor Drains

• Clogged gutters and outdoor drains can lead to water pooling around your foundation, increasing the risk of leaks and flooding.
• Remove leaves, dirt, and winter debris from downspouts and outdoor drains to allow proper drainage.

✅ 4. Check Your Water Heater

• If your water heater worked overtime in the winter, it may need flushing to remove built-up sediment.
• Test the temperature setting – 120°F is recommended for safety and efficiency.
• Look for signs of rust or leaks around the unit, which could indicate the need for maintenance or replacement.

✅ 5. Inspect Toilets & Faucets for Running Water

• A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day! Test for leaks by adding a few drops of food coloring to the tank—if color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak.
• Check all faucets and showerheads for dripping or inconsistent water pressure, as this could indicate worn washers or valve issues.

✅ 6. Examine Outdoor Plumbing & Sprinkler Systems

• If you shut off outdoor faucets for the winter, now is the time to turn them back on and check for leaks.
• Inspect sprinkler heads for cracks and leaks before the watering season begins.

✅ 7. Check Your Sewer Line & Drains

• Tree roots become more active in the spring and may invade sewer lines, causing slow drains or backups.
• If you notice gurgling sounds, sewage odors, or frequent clogs, it’s best to schedule a professional drain or sewer line inspection.

Bonus: Upgrade Your Plumbing for Efficiency

Spring is a great time to consider water-saving upgrades that can lower your utility bills:

• Install low-flow showerheads & faucets to reduce water usage.
• Upgrade to a tankless water heater for better energy efficiency.
• Invest in a smart water leak detection system to catch leaks before they cause damage.

Final Thoughts

By taking the time to inspect, clean, and maintain your plumbing system this spring, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure everything runs smoothly for the warmer months ahead. A little preventative care now can save you from unexpected breakdowns and water damage later.

💧 Need a plumbing inspection or maintenance service? Snyder’s Plumbing is here to help! Contact us today for expert plumbing services that keep your home running efficiently year-round.