This spring in Eugene, OR, refer to the comprehensive plumbing checklist we’re furnishing you with here. Ensuring that your plumbing system is working correctly can provide you with peace of mind and efficiency. It can also reduce the amount of ongoing plumbing repairs that are necessary. Let our professionals at Pacific Plumbing & Rooter Inc help with your spring plumbing inspection and maintenance.
Inspecting Outdoor Faucets and Fixtures
After a long winter, there may be damage to your outdoor faucets and fixtures, especially if freezing took place. Check for signs of leaks both inside and outside your home. You’ll want to determine that the proper pressure comes from your spigots. If you experienced freezing of your outdoor faucets this past winter, consider upgrading to freeze-proof models this spring. Thanks to increased insulation and a refined design that prevents water accumulation and freezing, it will ensure your plumbing system is ready next winter.
Inspect the hoses that you’ll be connecting to your outdoor fixtures. Make sure they are free of holes and other damage. Replace them if necessary.
Checking Gutters and Downspouts
While not a direct part of your home’s plumbing system, your gutters and downspouts are important for preventing water damage and structural issues. Remove debris from these areas to allow for proper drainage. Look for any cracks or damage that occurred during the winter. Also, make sure your gutters and downspouts are properly directing water away from your residence. Pooling water can cause foundation issues and structural rot.
Inspecting Your Sump Pump
Make sure your sump pump functions by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to see if the pump turns on. It should drain any water in the pit and then shut off. The pump and pit may need to be cleaned if debris has accumulated. Otherwise, the pump may not turn on or function properly. Inspection of your sump pump drain line will ensure water moves away from your home when the pump runs.
If you have a backup battery for your sump pump, make sure this equipment is working correctly. There may be a test button you can press that will engage the pump. Look for any cracks, damage, or swelling on the battery’s surface. Lead-acid batteries may require you to fill their cells with distilled water periodically. Check the voltage to ensure that it reads between 12.4 and 12.7 volts for a 12-volt battery.
Checking for Indoor Plumbing Leaks
There are several areas of your plumbing system that can experience leaks. Inspect faucets, fixtures, and pipe connections. Leaks can present themselves as dripping water, condensation, or pooling water. You should also keep an eye on your monthly water bill. Unexpected increases can indicate leaks that require pipe repair service to avoid worse damage.
Inspecting Your Toilet
Toilets can also experience leaks, leading to excessive water usage. Even a small leak can waste 30 or more gallons of water per day. You can add a few drops of food coloring to the top tank of your toilet, checking back to see if the dye makes its way into your toilet bowl. If it does, you may need to replace flappers or valves to prevent leaks and continuous running.
Water Heater Maintenance
Check the outside of your water heater for signs of damage or corrosion. A professional can inspect the anode rod on the inside of your tank. This is a sacrificial part that collects sediment and minerals to protect the rest of your tank and heating components.
Your water heater tank should be flushed annually to remove mineral deposits and sediment that can impact efficiency. Make sure that your water heater is set to approximately 120 degrees Fahrenheit to promote optimal efficiency. Other components that a professional can inspect include the pressure relief valve, heating element, and gas or electrical connections.
Outdoor Sprinkler System
If you have an outdoor sprinkler system, check for leaks or damage to the heads. Spring is the perfect time to adjust your watering schedule for efficiency. This is an area of your property that is prone to backflow, so work with a professional to determine if backflow preventers are necessary for protecting your clean water supply.
Pipe Damage
Evaluate all the pipes that you can visibly access. Look out for leaks as well as corrosion, rust, and damage. Bulges may occur if your pipes experienced freezing during the winter months.
Consider Plumbing Insulation
As part of your spring plumbing maintenance, consider adding insulation to your plumbing system. This can prevent pipes from freezing next winter. Insulation can also keep water warm for longer periods of time, so you’ll enjoy better water heater efficiency and comfort.
Different types of plumbing insulation are available. Fiberglass batting can be cut and placed around your pipes. Spray foam insulation is a great way to provide a tight seal while discouraging mold growth. Loose fill and foam tubing are other affordable options.
Drains and the Sewage System
Work with a professional to inspect your sewage system and drains for signs of clogs or damage. A professional can use camera equipment and acoustic devices to spot issues and clear drain clogs before they get worse and fully block water from moving. Regularly scheduling drain cleaning will help to prevent future clogs.
Make sure you watch out for bad odors coming from drains and ongoing issues with backups. If any of these symptoms arise, seek professional assistance.
Checking Water Pressure
The water pressure coming from your faucets and fixtures should be between 40 and 60 psi. If pressure is too high, it can cause plumbing damage. You can have a pressure regulator installed to address this issue. Low pressure may be indicative of a clog or leak and should be investigated further.
Consider Plumbing Upgrades
As part of your spring plumbing maintenance checklist, consider making upgrades or improvements. If you have old fixtures or faucets that frequently leak or have visible signs of corrosion and damage, now is the time to replace them. There are many new models that provide excellent efficiency.
If your washing machine hoses are many years old, consider replacing them with upgraded stainless-steel ones. This will help prevent water damage from a leaking hose.
There are all kinds of smart devices that can improve your home’s plumbing system. Leak detectors will provide you with immediate alerts, allowing you to take prompt action. There are smart water shut-off valves that can allow you to remotely turn off the water in your home if a problem occurs while you’re away.
Schedule Professional Assistance
Spring is the perfect time to schedule a professional plumbing inspection and maintenance. Working with an experienced professional will ensure minor issues are spotted early before they cause major problems. This can save you money on repairs. This is also a great way to reduce your water bills and protect the integrity of your plumbing system.
Plumbing issues can lead to health risks when water contamination occurs. Professional inspections and maintenance can prevent these occurrences, safeguarding your family’s health. Thankfully, our Maintenance Agreement makes it easy to get your tune-ups and offers perks and discounts, too!
Pacific Plumbing & Rooter Inc can help you with your spring plumbing needs. This includes routine maintenance and inspections as well as repairs. We can also handle any plumbing upgrades that you are interested in, such as a whole-house water treatment system. Contact us at Pacific Plumbing & Rooter Inc in Eugene today to schedule an appointment with our knowledgeable team.
