Spring Plumbing Tips for The DMV
Leave it Vito to De-Winterize Your Home!
With spring right around the corner, it’s essential to check and prepare your home’s plumbing for the upcoming changing season.
As you complete the tasks on your spring cleaning to-do list, it’s important to remember that typical spring clean-ups usually involve an increase in your home’s water consumption; from turning on any closed pipe, your bibs and sprinklers to watering the lawn or even filling your swimming pool, this uptick in water usage will put a heaver strain on your plumbing … much more than during the winter months.
Leaks, damaged supply lines, burst pipes and faulty plumbing can cause extensive water damage and mold growth all of which can lead to thousands of dollars in repair fees. Preparing for spring by checking your plumbing can save you from severe problems (and cost) down the road.
Before a small problem turns into a massive one, ensure your pipes and supply lines are running efficiently by adhering to Vito Services’ Spring Plumbing Tips for Maryland, Virginia and DC in 2024.
Springtime Plumbing Tips from Vito Services
As The DMV thaws out of from its winter freeze, so will the pipes in your home. While it is impossible to prevent a plumbing accident completely, checking your plumbing for any blockages or damage can reduce your risk from the most common plumbing leaks and flooding.
Test & Clean Your Sump Pump
Most flooding in this area takes place at the start of the spring season so it’s important to check your Sump Pumps early to ensure your basement can handle the increased rainfall and water levels. To help make sure your Maryland Sump Pump is ready for the spring, follow these 5-Steps:
- Disconnect the power source to remove and clean your sump pump.
- Remove the pump screen.
- Clear the line of any debris or blockages that limit water flow.
- Return the Sump Pump and restore power.
- Test the system by pouring a bucket of water into the pit.
- BONUS: To clean the Sump Pump, run a 50/50 water/vinegar mixture through the pump to help eliminate any smell, mold or mildew build-up (or Call Vito for same-day Sump Pump Service!)
Check Your Water Heater
While inspecting your plumbing for spring season, it’s always important to check your water heater for damage and leaks. In addition to looking for any rust, puddling or soot around the control panel, it’s also vital to flush your water heater after a long winter season to remove all debris and corrosion. Be sure to check your water heater manufacturer’s website for specific instructions concerning your make and model. Consider replacing your water heater if it is more than 12 years old or if you frequently experience problems. You can check the age of your water heater by looking up your serial number online. Vito Services flushes water heaters as part of our Vito VIP Plan … for more information visit our website here: www.VitoServices.com/Vito-VIP-Club
De-Winterize Outdoor Faucets, Hose Bibs and Sprinklers
During the cold winter months, outdoor pipes can freeze or break over time. Be sure to check that all of your sprinklers and outdoor faucets are working correctly by running all systems. As the water runs, inspect each sprinkler head and faucet for water leaks. Another area that often needs repair in the spring is your hose bib, or your outdoor faucet. If you didn’t unhook your garden hose over the winter, this part of your plumbing could have sprung a leak either on the exterior or interior of your home. Remember to also keep checking your basement for any water leaks caused by damaged or leaking pipes, especially at the start of spring when you are performing all these plumbing tips. Also, if any outdoor faucet is leaking, it should be replaced. For expert De-Winterization of your home, Leave it to Vito!
Turn Your Water Valve On and Off
One area of your plumbing that Maryland homeowners often neglect is their main water valve. After years of resting in the “On” position, it could be time to give the valve a twist to ensure you can easily turn your water supply off if needed (which is usually in an emergency). To test, turn the handle counterclockwise, then return it to its original position. If you can’t move the valve, it might be time for an upgrade. Contact Vito Services to discuss your water valve options: 301.822.9198.
Look for Toilet Leaks
Leaky toilets can cause serious damage, ranging from costly water bills to damaged floors. Keep an eye open for any wet floors around toilets. You can also run a leak test by adding six drops of food coloring to the toilet tank. If there is a toilet leak, colored water will shortly appear in the toilet bowl. If you notice any cracks or wetness around your toilet, schedule a plumbing service by contacting Vito Services emergency plumbers 24/7 at 1-800-GET-VITO.
Other Spring Time Plumbing Checks
- Check for High and Low water pressure, which both can be a sign of a larger plumbing problem.
- Always check for drippy for leaky faucents or sinks.
- Make sure all toilets in the home flush properly.
- Inspect all water bowls for cracks or leaks.
- Test and Clean your garbage disposal.
- Check all supply hoses on dishwasher, washing machine and ice-makers; leaking or bulging hoses should always be replaced immediately
Local, Trusted Plumbing Services
Since 1934, homeowners and businesses in The DMV have trusted the expert service plumbers at Vito Services. There is no type of home or business Vito Plumbers have not worked on and have the experience you need to trust all of your home’s plumbing.