Spring has sprung! With the start of a new season, you may experience seasonal plumbing issues. Many major repairs can be avoided with simple seasonal strategies that detect minor issues and provide healthy maintenance. Use these tricks from your plumber in Grand Rapids, MN to prep your plumbing for spring:
- Check outdoor plumbing: Harsh Minnesota winters can be hard on hoses and outdoor faucets. Check for leaks before heading into full summer use. If a hose was left on the hose bib all winter, leaks are especially likely. Verify proper functioning of both the hose and pipe. If you detect a leak, contact your plumber as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
- Prime your sump pump: Spring time typically means a lot of rainfall and potential flooding issues. Ensure your sump pump is ready for the season. Test your pump by pouring a few buckets of water into the sump pit. Your pump should start to run within a few seconds and then shut off automatically in a few minutes. If this does not happen, contact your plumber to inspect and repair the unit to ensure proper functioning and avoid flood damage.
- Do some spring cleaning: Plumbing fixtures are often overlooked when homeowners complete their spring cleaning tasks. Showerheads, in particular, rarely get the simple attention they need to remain like new. Remove mineral deposits that can clog the showerhead with this easy trick: Fill a Ziploc bag with white vinegar. Place it on the showerhead, wrapping it with rubber bands to secure the bag over the head. Leave this in place for 24 hours. The mineral deposits will break down and leave your shower head shining.
- Test your toilets: Leaky toilets and improper flushing may go unnoticed or unrepaired. Use the new season as an opportunity to check your toilets for healthy functioning. You should not have to hold or shake the handle for flushing. If you do, replace necessary parts to achieve easy flushing and save money on your water bill. To check your toilet for leaks, put a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank. If you have a leak, the food color will seep into the bowl within 30 minutes. Be sure to check the exterior for leaks, too.
- Inspect your water heater: Ensure your unit is at the proper setting for the season. It should be set at no higher than 120 degrees for best energy use and safe water temperatures. To flush out sediment that can cause corrosion, drain several gallons from the tank. This will increase efficiency and extend the life of your unit. If your water heater is older than 15 years, consider replacing it with a new unit. It is nearing the end of its life, and newer water heaters are more energy efficient.
As you prepare your plumbing for the spring and summer seasons, don’t hesitate to call in the pros for support. Your trusted plumber in Grand Rapids, MN can help ensure your systems are well maintained to prevent expensive plumber repairs this summer. Contact Rapids Plumbing & Heating Inc for all your plumbing needs.