Spring is finally blooming across the Kansas City metro! As the winter frost thaws and we prepare for those famous Missouri spring showers, it is the perfect time to give your home’s plumbing system a thorough checkup. The harsh freeze-thaw cycles of a Midwest winter can take a hidden toll on your pipes, and catching minor issues now can save you from major water damage later.
To help you get your home ready for the warmer months, the experts at Pederson’s Plumbing have put together this essential spring plumbing checklist.
Inspect Your Outdoor Spigots (Hose Bibs)
One of the most common spring plumbing disasters happens the first time you turn on your outdoor hose. If you left a hose attached over the winter, or if your spigot wasn't properly winterized, the water inside may have frozen and cracked the pipe just behind the wall.
How to check: Turn on the water at the outdoor spigot and place your thumb over the opening. If you can easily stop the flow of water with your thumb, the pressure is too low, indicating a leak somewhere in the line. You should also check inside your basement or crawlspace right behind the spigot for any pooling water.
Test Your Sump Pump
Spring in Kansas City means heavy rain. Your sump pump is your basement's first line of defense against flooding, so you need to know it works before a storm hits.
How to check: Remove the cover of the sump pit and slowly pour a bucket of water inside. The pump should turn on automatically, quickly drain the water, and shut itself off. If it doesn't trigger or if the motor sounds like it is struggling, it is time to call a professional for repair or replacement.
Flush Your Water Heater
Your water heater worked overtime during the cold winter months. Over time, calcium and hard water minerals naturally build up at the bottom of the tank, which reduces efficiency and shortens the lifespan of the unit.
How to check: Spring is the ideal time to do an annual flush of your water heater tank to clear out that sediment. If you notice your hot water running out faster than usual, or if your tank is making popping or rumbling noises, a flush is definitely overdue. (Note: If you have an older tank, it is often best to have a professional handle the flush to avoid damaging a brittle drain valve).
Hunt for Hidden Indoor Leaks
Winter's fluctuating temperatures can cause pipes to expand and contract, which can loosen joints and connections under your sinks or behind your appliances.
How to check: Take a flashlight and thoroughly inspect the plumbing under your kitchen and bathroom sinks. Look for damp wood, water stains, or a musty smell. Check the base of your toilets for any pooling water, and inspect the hoses connected to your washing machine for bulges or cracks.
Clear Out Sluggish Drains
Did your drains slow down over the winter? From holiday cooking grease in the kitchen sink to extra hair in the bathroom drains, winter buildup can lead to stubborn spring clogs.
How to check: If water is draining slowly or you hear gurgling sounds, do not reach for harsh chemical cleaners that can eat away at your pipes. Instead, plan to have your drains professionally snaked or hydro-jetted to restore them to full capacity before summer guests arrive.
Start the Season Right with Pederson’s Plumbing
Tackling a spring checklist is a great way to protect your home, but some jobs require the trained eye of the best plumber in Kansas City. If you discover a cracked outdoor pipe, a failing sump pump, or an aging water heater during your inspection, we are here to help.
At Pederson’s Plumbing, we pride ourselves on delivering top-tier Kansas City plumbing services to keep your home safe, dry, and efficient all year long. Our licensed technicians can perform a comprehensive spring inspection, address any winter damage, and give you total peace of mind for the season ahead.