How to Keep Your Home's Water System in Tip-Top Shape
It’s that time of year again! The flowers are blooming, the birds are singing, and it’s time for a good old-fashioned spring cleaning. By following this checklist and inspecting specific areas of your plumbing, you can keep your home in tip-top shape and avoid any nasty surprises down the road.
1. Check Your Faucets for Leaks
A drippy faucet may not seem like a big deal, but those tiny droplets can add up and cause severe damage over time. Why? Leaky faucets can waste gallons of water each day, so it’s wise to address any issues as soon as possible. Not only will fixing the problem save you money on your water bill, but it will also help keep your plumbing system in good shape.
2. Inspect Your Water Heater
Your water heater is one of the most vital pieces of equipment in your home’s plumbing system, so it’s good to do a regular inspection for common signs of wear and tear. If you notice any leaks, rusting, or other damage, be sure to have it repaired by a professional plumbing company. A faulty water heater can lead to all sorts of problems down the road—from mold damage to electrical issues—so it’s best to nip any issues in the bud before they grow into more significant catastrophes.
3. Inspect Drains and Sewer Lines for Clogs
Clogged drains and sewer lines can cause various problems in your home, ranging from water damage to even a potential backup. It’s a bright idea to regularly inspect these areas for signs of clogs and blockages and immediately take action if you find anything amiss. A good plunger is a must-have for any homeowner, and a drain snake can come in handy for more fierce blockages. Signs of a clog include slow drainage, water backup, and foul smells. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait to call a plumber—the sooner the clog is fixed, the better.
4. Clean Your Garbage Disposal
Your garbage disposal is one of the most commonly used appliances in your home, so you’ll want it to be clean and free of debris for sanitary purposes. Plus, a clean garbage disposal will help keep your plumbing system running smoothly—and who doesn’t love a shiny, sparkly kitchen sink? Simple tasks like running ice cubes and citrus rinds through the disposal can help keep it functioning correctly. If you notice any build-up or clogs, take the time to use a plunger or a snake to clear them out.
5. Replace Washing Machine Hoses
An area where many homeowners run into trouble is with washing machine hoses. Over time, these hoses can become brittle and crack, leading to leaks and water damage.
It’s a good idea to replace your washing machine hoses every five years to be on the safe side. You can find replacement hoses at any local hardware store, and it’s a job that most homeowners can easily do without too much hassle.
6. Check for Leaky Toilets
Another item to add to your spring cleaning plumbing checklist is your bathroom toilet. These leaks can often go undetected for long periods, so it’s best to check them regularly. If you notice any water around the base of your toilet, you likely have a leaky toilet. You need to address this problem as soon as possible, as leaving it can lead to extensive water damage over time.
7. Sump Pump Check
Last but not least, check your sump pump to make sure it’s functioning properly. What is a sump pump? It is an essential piece of equipment that helps keep your home dry during heavy rain or flooding. Not every residence has one in California, but those that do should make an effort to keep an eye on it for problems. If you find that your sump pump isn’t working correctly, don’t wait—call a plumber right away to have it fixed. A malfunctioning sump pump can lead to very significant water damage in your home.
Wrap Up: Spring Plumbing Checklist
By following this spring plumbing checklist, you can help keep your home’s water system in good shape and avoid any nasty surprises down the road. Be sure to check all of these areas regularly, and don’t hesitate to call us if you notice any problems.
At Alpine Plumbing and Rooter, we know that home plumbing issues and leaks can happen at any time. We’re happy to offer our customers scheduled and emergency plumbing services in San Dimas and surrounding areas. Please contact us at (626) 349-6631 or use our online form to schedule service.
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