Many plumbing problems make their appearance during the early spring season. As a homeowner, it’s important that you can recognize the warning signs indicating an issue. If you address these minor inconveniences promptly, you’ll save time, money, and hassles later on.
Spring Plumbing Problems
There are many reasons why plumbing problems tend to surface during the spring season. For one, your plumbing system may experience an increase in usage over winter. This increases the chance of debris building up in the pipes, which means clogged drains come spring.
You also have the freeze-thaw cycle to deal with. The ice in your pipes will melt as the outdoor temperature rises. The pipes can expand and crack, resulting in leaks. At this point, you’ll begin experiencing low water pressure and potential indoor flooding. Also, the transition from cold weather to spring warmth can cause exterior faucets to leak or crack.
All of the trees and plants begin to grow in the spring. Their roots will be searching for water and nutrients. They often invade sewer and plumbing pipes to find these necessities. Those roots can turn into major blockages that cause slow drains.
Sump pumps often fail during the spring season. Snowmelt and heavy rains overwhelm them, especially older systems. This results in flooded basements. That excess moisture also saturates the soil and causes it to shift. As the ground shifts, it can damage or break underground pipes.
Warning Signs Indicating Spring Plumbing Issues
To identify early spring plumbing problems, you need to focus on the warning signs. Spotting them during the initial thaw keeps minor cracks from growing into major problems.
Hidden Leaks
During the spring thaw, it’s common to find pinhole leaks or hairline cracks in pipes. Turn off all your water-using appliances, and then check your water meter. If the dial is still moving after two hours, there’s more than likely a leak somewhere.
Keep an eye out for viable damage, too. Warped baseboards, bubbling paint, damp drywall, or water stains on walls and ceilings indicate leaks. Unusual noises within the walls, such as hissing or dripping, are also red flags.
Even your water bill can provide clues to hidden spring leaks. A sudden spike in the cost can be due to ongoing leaks that develop over the winter season.
Testing Outdoor Spigots
Your outdoor plumbing is especially vulnerable to winter freezing. You may not even notice the damage until you go to use one of the exterior spigots during the spring months. Place your thumb over the opening and turn the outdoor faucet on. If you notice weak pressure or hear water running inside the wall, there’s likely a freeze-thaw crack. If you have exposed water lines leading to your exterior taps or sprinkler system, watch for wet spots.
Inspect Your Sump Pump
Since snowmelt and heavy spring rains can overwhelm your foundation, you need to verify that the sump pump is working. Pour a few gallons of water into the sump pit. This will lift the float, and it should activate the pump. If not, you need to call a professional plumber for assistance. You also need help if you hear grinding and rattling or if the pump continuously runs but the water isn’t moving.
Monitor for Tree Root Invasion
There are many warning signs in the early spring that signal tree root invasion. This could be slow drains in your home, gurgling toilets, or lush, green areas over the sewer line. You may also have soggy spots in your yard, even when there’s no rain.
Water Heater Inspection
Water heaters work hard over winter. This leads to sediment buildup in the tank, and it reduces efficiency. Heavy sediment buildup can result in rumbling or popping noises. Check the base of the heater for rust, corrosion, or small puddles, too.
When to Call a Professional
You need to schedule service with a professional plumber as soon as you notice any of these warning signs. Those issues won’t go away on their own. Instead, they’ll turn into big problems with costlier repairs. Tackling plumbing issues early in the spring will ensure a reliable plumbing system for the coming summer months and beyond.
Your Local Plumbing Expert
Comfort Control can help you with a variety of plumbing issues in Ashland, OH, this spring. We’re a locally owned and operated company with over 45 years of experience. We offer both residential and commercial services to help you with everything from a simple water heater issue to major sewer and drain line complications. Furthermore, our routine maintenance will ensure a healthy and efficient plumbing system for your home or business.
Our expert team of plumbers has the skills and tools necessary to address all your plumbing repair needs. We also provide 24/7 emergency service, online bill pay, and financing on approved credit to add to your convenience. As a member of the Ashland Chamber of Commerce, we’re your neighbor and friend. Our dedication to your satisfaction earns us an A+ rating from the BBB.
Call Comfort Control today to schedule service for your early spring plumbing problems.
