Spring in the San Gabriel Valley means blooming jacarandas and warmer days. It’s also the perfect time to check your plumbing system for any issues that developed during the cooler winter months.
Here is your 20-minute Spring Plumbing Checklist to prevent expensive surprises.
1. Check Outdoor Faucets (Hose Bibs)
Turn on your outdoor spigots. If water sprays out from the handle or leaks from the connection, you might have a worn washer or a freeze crack (rare in SGV, but possible). A dripping hose bib can waste hundreds of gallons a month.
2. Inspect Under Sinks
Grab a flashlight. Look under your kitchen and bathroom sinks.
- Run the water.
- Feel the pipes for moisture.
- Look for water stains on the cabinet floor.
Catching a slow drip now saves you from mold remediation later.
3. Flush Your Water Heater
Sediment builds up faster in winter when the heater works harder. Drain a few gallons from the tank to flush out minerals. This increases efficiency and extends the tank’s life. If you don’t know how, we can help.
4. Test Your Toilet for “Silent Leaks”
Put a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank. Wait 20 minutes without flushing. If color appears in the bowl, your flapper valve is leaking. This silent leak wastes huge amounts of water and inflates your bill.
5. Clean Your Gutters and Drains
Ensure your yard drains and gutters are clear of winter debris. April showers can still happen, and you want that water flowing away from your foundation, not pooling against it.
Schedule a Professional Inspection
If you find a leak or just want peace of mind, Western Rooter offers comprehensive plumbing inspections. A little maintenance now saves a big repair bill this summer.
