You might be done with your spring cleaning, but have you given any thought to your spring plumbing maintenance? Chances are, unless there’s a problem, you’re probably not even thinking about inspecting your plumbing—but this is a great time of year to make sure that everything is in working order. Calling a plumber in Columbus, IN for routine maintenance can help you spot problems before they get worse and end up costing far more money later on down the road.
Here’s what you should check for—or have a plumber check for—during your spring plumbing maintenance:
- Is your toilet leaking? The first thing you should do is look around your toilet to see if there’s any water leaking or collecting on the floor around your toilet, or if you see any water damage where the hose connects to the wall. Next, put five to 10 drops of food coloring into the tank and wait an hour.
If you see any of the food coloring in the bowl, your toilet may be leaking and need to be checked by a plumber. - Are your pipes leaking? Look for signs of water damage or water leaks around all the faucets and pipes in your home, from the kitchen to the bathroom to the laundry sink. If you notice any signs of errant water, call a plumber right away.
- How is the water heater operating? If your water heater is 15 years or older, it’s time to replace it. Newer models are more efficient, so you’ll save money in the long run. In the meantime, check all the hoses, move everything away from around the heater and make sure the water is set to no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Are your outdoor faucets and drains operating properly? Your exterior plumbing needs to be checked, too—this includes any outdoor faucets and drains, as well as your gutters and downspouts. Make sure everything is free of obstructions from leaves and other yard debris, and if you see signs of water leaks or damage, call a professional right away.
- Is your sump pump draining? If you have a sump pump, dump a bucket of water into the pit. The pump should activate, drain the water and then shut off—if it doesn’t, you’ll need a plumber to check it out.
- Are your appliances working? Finally, check your major water-using appliances and their hoses for signs of leakage and weakness. If a hose is bulging or showing signs of age, but the appliance itself is still in good working condition, you can simply replace the hose.
Plumbing services in Columbus, IN
Barr Plumbing Service, Inc. offers commercial and residential plumbing services to clients in the Columbus, IN area. From general plumbing services to new kitchen and bathroom plumbing installation, we pride ourselves on being friendly and professional while offering expert service for your needs. Find out why we have an A+ Better Business Bureau rating when you call us today to schedule an appointment!