Spring is finally here! Have you begun your spring cleaning? Spring’s warmer weather can provide welcome relief from slick roads and freezing temperatures. However, the sudden change in weather can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. Drips, obstructions and drainage issues can all rear their ugly heads; and when they do, it’s time for professional spring plumbing repair. Here are some of the most common plumbing and drainable problems that can arise this time of year.
Clogged Drains
A winter spent indoors can lead to more food scraps, grease, debris and hair entering your drainage system, leaving behind clogs and slow drainage for the springtime. It’s important to have this buildup removed by snaking the drains or calling a professional plumber to locate and remove all of the clogs and make your drainage more efficient.
Drips
When you go to turn the water to the outdoor water spigot again this spring, you may recall a drip that developed last summer or notice a new one. Now is the time to get that drip repaired to avoid water waste and water damage to your foundation.
Or, has there been a shower faucet drip that’s been slowly developing all winter long? Now is the time to get that drip taken care of.
Leaky Pipes
Many pipes develop leaks during winter that may not be evident until spring brings warmer weather. This trend comes from the expansion and contraction caused by temperature fluctuations.
In cold weather, pipes may contract or fill with frozen water and crack. When the weather gets warmer, the pipes expand and any new leaks may become larger. If you have leaky pipes, you may notice dripping or standing water in the affected area, a higher amount of water usage, or musty odors. These type of issues must be addressed as soon as possible.
Slow Drainage
One of the most common and aggravating springtime plumbing issues is slower draining in sinks, showers, bathtubs, and floor drains. Slow draining can occur for many reasons. In the spring, sudden changes in fixture drainage may point to a root intrusion. If a large tree root has entered a drain line, water may have difficulty getting past the obstruction. In this case, you will likely notice slow water movement in most or all of your drains.
Low Water Pressure
Lower water pressure is a common sign for homeowners that their plumbing was damaged sometime during the winter months and a pipe somewhere is likely leaking. Low water pressure can also be a sign of clogged or old water lines that need to be replaced.
Even if you haven’t noticed any signs of the springtime plumbing problems listed above, spring is a great time for a routine inspection. For more information about spring plumbing repair in the Twin Cities area, call All Ways Drains at 612-922-9422 or contact us for a Free Estimate.