Plumbing Prep in the DMV: Is Your Home Ready for the Spring Season?

Why Plumbing Prep Matters

The shift from winter to spring can take a toll on your plumbing system. Freezing temperatures, ice buildup, and dormant fixtures can cause hidden wear and tear that only becomes obvious when the weather warms up and water usage increases.

Preparing your plumbing now means fewer problems—and more peace of mind—all season long.

What Homeowners Can Do: DIY Spring Plumbing Tips

Here are a few things every homeowner can (and should!) do to get their plumbing ready for spring:

✅ Check for Leaks

Inspect under sinks, behind toilets, and around hose bibs and outdoor spigots for any visible leaks or water stains.

✅ Test Water Pressure

Turn on all faucets to ensure water pressure is consistent. Low pressure might be a sign of sediment buildup, clogs, or pipe damage.

✅ Inspect Toilets and Faucets

Look for dripping faucets or toilets that keep running. These small leaks can add up to big water bills.

✅ Clear Outdoor Hose Bibs

If you disconnected hoses for the winter, reconnect and test your hose bibs for proper function and leaks—especially to make sure no pipes froze or cracked during the winter.

✅ Flush Your Water Heater

Sediment buildup can reduce efficiency. If you’re comfortable doing it, flush a few gallons from the tank to keep things running smoothly.

✅ Test Your Sump Pump

Spring showers are coming—make sure your sump pump turns on and discharges properly by pouring water into the pit.

✅ Prep Sprinklers and Pools

Turn irrigation systems back on slowly, checking for broken heads or leaks. If you’ve got a pool or hot tub, this is a great time to inspect valves, filters, and water lines.

What to Leave to the Pros

While some checks are easy DIY tasks, others are best left to trained professionals. Here’s where Vito Services comes in:

🛠️ Pipe Inspections & Leak Detection

We can perform a full diagnostic check for hidden leaks or pipe damage, especially in areas you can’t see (like under slabs or inside walls).

🛠️ Water Heater Maintenance

Let our pros handle deep cleaning, part replacements, or full system inspections to keep your water heater running safely and efficiently.

🛠️ Sump Pump Testing & Replacement

If your sump pump is over 7-10 years old, we’ll test and, if needed, replace it before heavy rain hits.

🛠️ Outdoor Plumbing Prep

We can help get your sprinkler systems, hose bibs, and pool plumbing ready for a high-usage season.

Spring Plumbing Red Flags: What to Watch For

Some warning signs might seem small—but they could be pointing to larger problems. Keep an eye (and ear) out for:

🚩 Low Water Pressure – Could be a sign of corrosion, blockages, or hidden leaks.
🚩 Dripping Faucets or Running Toilets – Wastes hundreds of gallons a month.
🚩 Sweating or Condensation on Pipes – May signal poor insulation or high humidity, potentially leading to mold.
🚩 Cracked Toilet Bowls or Bases – Even hairline cracks can lead to leaks and costly floor damage.
🚩 Unusual Water Color or Odors – Could mean pipe corrosion, sediment buildup, or bacterial growth.