Spring Awakening: Minimize the Plumbing Problems Warm Weather Brings
The warmer weather in spring is a welcome relief from the months of frigid temperatures, icy roads, and frozen pipes in winter. Spring brings warm air and longer days — and potential plumbing issues.
If you want to start the season right (and with as little stress as possible), call the nearest plumbing repair company in Woodbridge, Va., to help you get your house plumbing ready for the warm weather. It’s never too early to start checking on your pipes and plumbing system, either. Doing so will help you keep track of potential problem areas, minimize the effect of springtime weather on your pipes, and guide your local plumber to hasten repairs.
Check for Fixture Shrinkage and Expansion
All materials contract when exposed to cold temperatures and expand when exposed to heat. Known as thermal expansion, this is a basic science concept that’s taught in schools across the US and the root of nearly all plumbing issues related to seasonal changes.
Every part of your plumbing system may be subject to thermal expansion whether it’s the pipes themselves or the fixtures in your bathroom and kitchen. While the effects of material shrinkage and expansion may be immediate, such as when a pipe bursts, some effects are more subtle.
The gradual change in temperature and subsequent material expansion as the temperature rises may form hairline cracks in your plumbing fixtures, particularly your faucets. The rubber gasket or washer inside faucets may wear out faster, too. Even a small issue with your fixtures can affect the water pressure in your home. Additionally, the hairline fractures in fixtures can turn to full-blown leaks if left unrepaired.
Test Sump and Septic Systems
Septic and sump system problems aren’t easy situations for any homeowner to deal with. Checking on both systems as spring nears can help you prevent costly repairs.
Your sump pump keeps spring showers from getting into your basement and turning into spring floods. A properly working sump pump also helps ensure the snow drains properly as it melts. Industry professionals recommend scheduling a sump pump testing at least once a year during late winter or early spring.
Meanwhile, septic tanks can develop leaks due to the cold and spell disaster once spring comes. Standing water on your septic tank cover and puddles near the tank or around the draining field are signs of septic tank issues. Have a professional inspect your septic system and pump it clean to avoid any problems from worsening.
Flush Out the Water Heater
Water heaters often work overtime during the winter months. The water’s room temperature is lower and requires a greater amount of energy for it to reach a hotter temperature. The additional effort means additional strain that may make your water heater less efficient and vulnerable to damage or failure in spring. Flushing the water heater system to get rid of possible sediment buildup in the tank can keep your water heater running at maximum efficiency.
Just as preparing your home and your plumbing is essential before the winter season comes, so is dewinterizing your pipes to prepare it for spring. After all, seasonal changes, whether it’s fall to winter or winter to spring, can cause strain your home’s plumbing system.
1 Stop Mechanical is your one-stop-shop for all your plumbing repair needs, from residential and commercial plumbing to sewer piper repair and HVAC repair. Contact us today for a head start on getting your pipes ready for spring.