Spring Plumbing Tips

Spring is just around the corner, so make a plan to handle these helpful Spring Plumbing Tips.

Check for Leaks

  • Inspect toilet tank and bowl for cracks or leaks.
  • Check toilets for hidden leaks. Add six drops of food coloring to the toilet tank. If the toilet is leaking, color will appear in the bowl within 30 minutes.
  • Check faucets for drips or leaks. Make repairs to save water.
  • Check exposed pipes under sinks and in the basement for signs of leaks.

Water Heater

  • Check the temperature setting on the water heater. It should be set no higher than 120°F to prevent scalding and reduce energy use.
  • Carefully drain several gallons from the water heater tank to flush out corrosion causing sediment, which reduces heating efficiency and shortens the life of the heater. A great Spring Plumbing Tip.
  • Consider replacing a water heater more than 15 years old. (The first four numbers of the serial number represent the month and year it was made.) Newer water heaters are more energy efficient.

Drains

  • Ensure that all drains have strainers to prevent hair, soap and debris from clogging the drain lines.
  • Pour a gallon of water into infrequently used drains (including floor drains) to fill the trap and prevent odors from entering the house. Slow floor drains should be snaked to ensure they will carry away water quickly in the event of a flood.
  • Install a backflow valve in the floor drain if you live in an area where sewers sometimes back up into homes. This device will prevent future backups.
  • Make sure yard drains, gutters and downspouts are cleaned out, open, and free of debris.

If you have any leaks, or need any repairs done, call your Cincinnati Plumber, Flow-Rite Plumbing, today!