Outdoor Spring Plumbing Hacks for 2018

Spring is coming quickly, so there is no time to waste when getting your home ready for the coming warmth. As it warms up, your watering needs are greater, so you need to make sure that your outdoor plumbing is working well.

Plumbing leaks, both inside and outside your home can be a major cause of wasted water, which is terrible for the environment and for your household budget. Here are some easy-to-follow hacks that can help you identify and prevent problems.

The Gutter Cleanout

Over the winter season, there is a good chance that your gutters filled up with leaves, dirt and other debris. You need your gutters to be free and clear to allow water to drain off of your roof down through the downspouts and away from your home.

When gutters are backed up, there is nowhere for the water to flow and water damage and leaks can occur in your roof.

Want to clean your gutters in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way? Use a broom instead of a hose.

Check Faucets

Turn outdoor faucets on and off to make sure they are operational. Do you see any signs of moisture on the faucet or surrounding pipes? Is it dripping? It’s possible that you’ve got a leak further down in the pipes. Here is a test to help you check.

Place your thumb completely over the spigot and seal it. Turn it on. If the water pressure is strong enough, you won’t be able to contain the water with your thumb.

If you’ve got low water pressure because of a leak in your piping somewhere, you’ll be able to keep the water in. If you suspect you’ve got a leak, contact your Independence, MO plumber for help.

Make Sure Hoses are in Good Condition

Hoses are made of rubber, which means that they will eventually crack and break. This means that when you turn the water on, much of it will spray out, wasting water.

Do a full inspection of your hoses and nozzles. Replace anything that is aging.

Irrigation Inspection

Walk around your lawn and check out the nozzle heads on your irrigation system. Cut back any grass that has grown over top. Ensure that they aren’t protruding too far from the ground, where they are in danger of getting run over by the lawnmower.

Inspect each valve box to make sure that everything is working well. Check timers and time and date settings.

Spend some time tending to your home now, so that you can fully enjoy spring.