It might not feel like spring yet, but it’s finally coming. You might be looking around and seeing snow still on the ground and the sky might still be gray but March 20th is the first day of spring for 2014. We thought we’d remind you of some spring plumbing tips to help you get ready for the spring and a few ways to add a little bit more green in your life – even if it’s not on the ground yet.
Tips for Spring Plumbing
1. Clean your shower head. By removing any buildup you will improve the water flow and waste less water in the shower. Vinegar is an easy and inexpensive way to break down the deposits.
2. Test your sump pump. You don’t want to get caught with a spring flood and your sump pump not working. Pour water into your sump pit and turn on the pump to make sure it is draining you water correctly.
3. Inspect your water heater – especially if it’s on the older side! Check for signs of rust colored water or extra moisture around the water heater’s base.
4. Put strainers on your drains. There is nothing worse than standing in a clogged shower knowing that there’s probably a full head of hair clumping up you drains.
5. Take a peek at you gutters. It’s common for animals to take residence in gutters during the winter and early spring. You want to make sure everything (and everyone!) is cleared out before it starts raining.
6. Pour about a gallon of water into infrequently used drains (including floor dains) to fill the trap and prevent odors from entering the house.
7. Check your washing machine and dishwasher hose for leaks or bulgers. If the hoses are older than 10 years they should be replaced. Consider using braided stainless steel hoses rather than rubber hoses.
8. Check plumbing vent pipes for bird nests.
Add A Little Green
1. Run your dishwasher in the evenings with full loads to conserve water and energy.
2. Got a leaky faucet? Fix it! A faucet can drip at the rate of one drop per second – which can waste almost 2,800 gallons of water a year. A leaky toilet can waste an astounding 73,050 gallons of water a year.
3. Wash only full loads of laundry or use the appropriate load size selection on the washing machine to help save water.
4. Not all leaks are so easily detected! Check your water meter before and after a specific period of time when no water has been used. If the meter has changed there might be a leak lurking somewhere inside of your home.
5. Get a faucet or pitcher that filters your water. This will help save money on bottled water.
6. If you haven’t already – lower the temperature on your hot water heater! It should be no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit – anything extra is excess energy driving up your bills.
Got questions about your plumbing? Call or email your local Mr. Rooter of Oneida, NY plumber