Spring has arrived, bringing the perfect chance to address home maintenance tasks that may have been neglected over the winter. While spring cleaning is often top of mind, many homeowners forget the importance of checking their plumbing system.
Oregon winters can be tough on your plumbing, from frozen pipes to leaks caused by fluctuating temperatures. Taking the time for a spring plumbing check-up keeps your system running smoothly, helps prevent costly repairs, and gets your home ready for the warmer months ahead.
Not sure where to start? This guide will walk you through 5 essential plumbing tips, how to address common issues, and when it’s best to call in a professional.
1. Inspect for Leaks Inside and Out
Leaks may seem minor, but they can quickly grow into larger issues if left unchecked. Start by checking your visible pipes, faucets, showerheads, and toilets for suspicious sounds, drips, or dampness. Don’t forget outdoor hose bibs and sprinkler systems, which could have been damaged by winter freezes.
How to Fix Simple Leaks:
- Tighten loose fixtures using a wrench, but don’t overtighten, as this could cause damage.
- Replace worn-out washers or O-rings in faucets. You can find these inexpensive parts at your local hardware store.
- If you suspect a leak in your toilet, add a few drops of food coloring to the tank, and wait about 15 minutes without flushing. If the dye appears in the bowl, you have a leak. Replace the toilet flapper to fix it.
- For hose bibs, turn the water on and check for leaks where the hose connects. If you spot a leak, try replacing the rubber washer inside the connector.
If you notice wet patches on walls, ceilings, or floors, it could indicate a hidden leak. Hidden leaks can cause structural damage, widespread mold, and other serious issues, so it’s best to contact a professional plumber if you spot these signs.
2. Test and Drain Your Water Heater
Over time, sediment naturally builds up in your water heater tank—even with a water softener. This buildup puts extra stress on your water heater, causing it to work harder and less efficiently. As a result, your energy use increases, leading to higher utility bills. Plus, the added wear on the tank lining raises the chances of leaks or even system failure.
How to Maintain Your Water Heater:
Experts and manufacturers recommend scheduling an professional water heater tune-up each year to keep your water heater running safely and efficiently. However, if you’d prefer, there are a few maintenance tasks you could do yourself:
- Check Temperature Gauge: Check that the temperature is set to around 120°F, which is both energy-efficient and safe.
- Inspect for Corrosion or Leaks: Look for rust or dampness around the base of your water heater. These signs may mean it’s time for a replacement. A failing water heater can cause water damage, expensive repairs, or even flooding if the tank bursts. In rare cases, pressure buildup in a malfunctioning heater could result in a dangerous explosion.
- Drain the Tank: Turn off the water supply and power to the heater. Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank, run the hose to a safe drainage area, and open the valve to flush out sediment.
While these are good DIY steps, a professional tune-up checks for hidden damage and ensures your water heater runs as efficiently as possible—which helps extend the lifespan of your unit.
At Carbone Home Services, we offer full inspection and maintenance for both tank and tankless systems, keeping your water in great shape so you can avoid higher energy bills and expensive repairs. If your water heater is aging or showing signs of wear, our team can also help you explore energy-efficient options like a tankless water heater, which could lower your long-term costs.
3. Clear Out Slow Drains
Spring is a good time to tackle those annoyingly slow drains caused by hair, grease, and debris. Slow drains can indicate buildup in your pipes. Left unchecked, that buildup can turn into a clog—or worse, pipe damage and expensive repairs.
DIY Drain Cleaning Tips:
- Use a drain snake or plumber’s auger to remove blockages manually.
- Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water. This eco-friendly solution works wonders for breaking down minor clogs and clearing buildup.
- Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, which can corrode your pipes over time. Instead, consider using an enzyme-based cleaner, which is a safer and environmentally friendly alternative that effectively breaks down organic matter without damaging your pipes.
For persistent drainage issues, professional hydro-jetting services can thoroughly clean your pipes without causing damage.
4. Test Your Sump Pump
If your home has a basement, your sump pump is a critical defense against spring flooding during heavy rain in the Milwaukie area. Regular testing will confirm that your sump pump is ready when needed.
How to Test Your Sump Pump:
- Locate your sump pump in its sump pit. Unplug your pump to inspect for visible dirt or debris around the pump and pit. Clear these as needed.
- Fill the pit with a large bucket of water to simulate flooding. The pump should automatically activate and drain the water.
- Once complete, confirm that the pump turns off properly.
If your sump pump fails to activate or run smoothly, it may require repairs or replacement. Don’t delay—this device is essential for protecting your home from water damage.
5. Check Your Water Pressure
Your water pressure should function smoothly, as it’s an essential part of your daily routine. Low water pressure can make simple tasks like showering or washing dishes frustrating and time-consuming. Low water pressure is often caused by a buildup of debris or mineral deposits in your aerators or pipes.
- Unscrew the aerators on your sinks or the showerhead, and rinse out any dirt, grime, or scale buildup. Soaking them in vinegar can help remove stubborn deposits.
- If low water pressure affects your entire home, the issue may be more complex. It could point to a problem with your main water line, a faulty pressure regulator, or even a leak somewhere in your plumbing system.
More complex water pressure issues require expert knowledge, so it’s best to call a professional plumber to assess the situation and provide a safe, effective solution.
When to Call a Professional
While these DIY tips cover many common plumbing issues, some problems are best left to the experts to avoid further damage. Here are a few situations where it’s time to call a professional plumber:
- Hidden leaks causing structural damage
- Low water pressure throughout your home
- Burst or frozen pipes from winter weather damage
- Persistent clogs or sewer line issues
- Water heater replacements or major repairs
- Changes to plumbing systems, such as installations or remodels
Our licensed plumbers come backed with years of experience to handle all of these situations and more.
Call Carbone Home Services for Plumbing Peace of Mind
Spring is the season of renewal—why not extend that to your home’s plumbing system? By performing a spring plumbing check-up, you can resolve small issues before they become costly disasters.
Need help with a plumbing concern? The experts at Carbone Home Services are here for you. Whether we’re fixing leaks, tackling tough clogs, or providing expert advice, we’ll make sure your home is in excelCarbonet shape. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
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