Although south Florida experiences great weather all year long and compared to much of the rest of the country, we have summer all year long. However, now is the perfect time to do some spring cleaning and your plumbing maintenance should be no different.
Routine maintenance can help prevent costly repairs, improve efficiency, and increase the lifespan of your plumbing system. To help you get started, we’ve created a plumbing checklist for homeowners to perform each year to incorporate into spring cleaning.
INDOOR:
INSPECT YOUR WASHING MACHINE HOSES
Even the newest models of washing machine work hard and that means the hoses work hard too. Check the hoses for cracks, bulges, or signs of wear and tear. If you notice any damage, replace the hoses immediately to avoid potential flooding or water damage. Check the connection is secure.
TEST YOUR TOILET
A running toilet can waste gallons of water each day, resulting in rising costs on your utility bill. An easy test would be to a few drops of food coloring in the tank. If the color appears in the bowl within 30 minutes, you may have a leak.
REFRESH YOUR GARBAGE DISPOSAL
Living in Florida, we spend so much time outside, including cooking and entertaining. Be sure to limit food scraps in your garbage disposal. To keep your disposal functioning correctly, run cold water while using it and avoid putting hard or fibrous foods down the drain.
CLEAN YOUR DRAINS
Your house has a lot of activity, which can lead to clogged drains. Prevent clogs by inspecting your drains and performing routine drain maintenance. Use a drain snake or plunger to regularly remove any hair, soap scum, or other debris that may have accumulated in your drains.
OUTDOOR:
INSPECT YOUR OUTDOOR PLUMBING
Outdoor faucets, sprinklers, and hoses can become damaged with temperature changes. Be sure to check the outdoor faucets for leaks or damage, such as hose connections are secure and not leaking, run your sprinkler system to ensure all heads are working properly and not discharging large amounts of water creating potential flooding or damage. Check other areas for leaks, rust, and damage and replace any damaged fixtures.
INSPECT YOUR WATER HEATER
Your water heater works hard all year long to keep up with laundry, dishes, and showers. Check the temperature and pressure relief valve and make sure it’s functioning correctly. This valve is designed to release pressure if the temperature inside the tank becomes too high. Look for any signs of rust or corrosion, which can indicate a potential issue.
CLEAN GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS
Gutters and downspouts are designed to collect and redirect rainwater away from your home’s foundation. However, gutters can become clogged with debris, including leaves, sticks, and other materials, which can obstruct the flow of water. This blockage can cause water to overflow and seep into your home’s foundation, leading to water damage, mold growth, and even structural damage.
CHECK YOUR SUMP PUMP
Summer can bring heavy rain and thunderstorms, which can lead to flooding. Make sure your sump pump is functioning correctly by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit. If the pump turns on and removes the water, it’s working correctly. If not, call a professional to inspect and repair it.
TEST YOUR WATER PRESSURE
Test your water pressure which can be an indicator of potential issues with your plumbing system. To test your water pressure, you will need a water pressure gauge, which can be purchased at most hardware stores.
SCHEDULE A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION
While performing your own routine maintenance can go a long way toward preventing plumbing issues, it’s also essential to schedule a professional plumbing inspection. A licensed plumber can inspect your entire plumbing system for any potential issues, including leaks, corrosion, and damage. They can provide recommendations for improving efficiency and prolonging the lifespan of your plumbing system.
About Paradigm Plumbing
When considering a professional plumber, call the experts at Paradigm Plumbing. From water heaters to filtration systems, and all of your plumbing needs, the experts at Paradigm Plumbing are here to help you. They are a licensed and insured plumbing service company that has been serving residential and commercial customers throughout Palm Beach County since 2001. For more information, call (561) 841-9008.
