The warm temperatures, and welcome sunshine are turning our thoughts toward spring as early flowers and trees begin to bloom. It is that time of year again, not only for the spring-cleaning of our homes, but for the seasonal check on our plumbing. The following suggestions will ensure your plumbing in Sugar Land is ready for the warm weather ahead. During the inspection, if you find plumbing issues in need of repair, contact a Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Rosenberg for repair.

Do a walk through inspection in your home, and check all outside faucets and pipes. Freezing winter temperatures can cause plumbing to crack, burst, and of course leak. Inspect all outdoor exposed pipes to ensure there are not any water leaks. Also, check for leaking faucets. If you find problems in your indoor or outdoor plumbing in Sugar Land, contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Rosenberg for plumbing repair.

Spring is the time to clean gutters and downspouts of leaves that have collected since the fall clean out. It may seem excessive to perform it twice a year, but a clogged gutter can result in water finding its way under your roof causing damage to your home. The purpose of gutters is to capture the water that flows from your roof during rain, and direct it away from the home and its foundation. Poorly maintained slop next to the home, a clogged gutter system, and poor drainage are potential causes of a flooded basement. If you have a problem with basement flooding, contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Rosenberg for sump pump installation.

Check inside faucets for leaks, and contact your plumber in Sugar Land for repair. Repair conserves the precious resource of water, while reducing the cost of your water bill.

Inspect plumbing and gas vent pipe for debris, to ensure there are no blockages or danger. This is essential for gas ventilation pipes, as a blockage can result in the spillage of deadly carbon monoxide in your home.

Inspect the sump pump and ensure its proper operation by pouring a bucket of water into the pit. If the pump doesn’t start up and pump the water away, check to ensure it is plugged in. In addition, ensure the circuit breaker supplying its power in the electrical panel is in the On position. Contact a Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Rosenberg for sump pump repair.

Spring is the time for taking care of issues caused by hard water, such as the unsightly buildup of mineral deposits on faucets, showerheads, and faucet aerators. Furthermore, spring is the time to flush the water heater.

Faucet aerators should simply unscrew, if they require cleaning, rinse, and soak in vinegar until the buildup is gone. Use a soft toothbrush dipped in vinegar to remove any residue. Rinse well and screw the aerator back on.

Showerheads experience build up quickly in the presence of hard water. Most will unscrew, enabling you to soak them in white vinegar to loosen mineral buildup. Test an inconspicuous area before soaking to ensure the acidic vinegar will not damage the finish. Soak to loosen scale build up, typically 1 to 2 hours. Gently scrub any residue with a soft toothbrush and vinegar. Use a straightened large paper clip to open any holes in the showerhead that remain blocked. Rinse well, and screw it back on. If the showerhead is not removable, use a large, leak free bag with enough vinegar to cover the showerhead, and secure with a large rubber band.

The buildup of hard water minerals is especially an issue with the water heater. Spring is the time to provide a flush. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for how to flush sediment from your water heater. While we’re on the topic of mineral deposits, now is a good time to flush your water heater. If you are unable, or uncomfortable to provide the task, contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Rosenberg for professional flushing.

As part of the water heaters recommended maintenance, flushing maintains efficiency, performance, and extends the lifespan of the appliance. A poorly maintained water heater will not last as long as one receiving routine maintenance. Spring offers an ideal time for water heater maintenance.

If your water heater is over 10 years old, consider replacing it for greater energy efficiency, reliability, and performance. After going over these spring plumbing tips, if problems are identified, contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Rosenberg to schedule plumbing repair. Our dedicated, licensed plumbers serve Sugar Land, Katy, Houston, and the surrounding areas. We are a member of the BBB with a consistent A+ rating.