Though it may not seem like it today, spring will be here any day now here in WNY. That means it’s time to start preparing your outdoor plumbing fixtures. Once summer arrives, it’ll be over in a flash, so it’s time to start prepping now. Buffalo winters can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing, especially homes with outdoor fixtures. This is why we wanted to take a few minutes here on the blog to create a guide to making sure your outdoor plumbing is ready for the spring and summer months.
Here are a few things to look out for around your home to be sure all is well with your outdoor plumbing.
Are All Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures Working?
Professional plumbers use a fancy term for this, known as the “functionality test.” Check all your outdoor fixtures to run and check that they’re all flowing water at normal levels. Water pressure is the key indicator. Are they flowing as well as they did last summer?
You’re also going to want to check water “continuity.” This means ensuring that you monitor the water for a few minutes to make sure there aren’t any spurts or stops. Any signs of spurts or stops could indicate a form of a leak somewhere in the system.
If you’re concerned, we can certainly run a few tests to evaluate the integrity of your outdoor plumbing systems.
Are the Faucets or Hose Bibs Leaking?
Once you see that water is flowing properly, you should inspect the system for any leaks that may have formed. Check the pipes leading to the faucet. If you notice any trickling water or condensation, there could be a leak.
You’ll also want to check to see if, once you close the faucet, you notice water continues to trickle out, which could also signify a leak in the line. A worn-out washer or something could be in need of replacement.
Hopefully, before winter, you made sure to disconnect any hoses from the hose bib to prevent freezing and potential structural damage. Now that it’s warming up, turn the water back on and inspect for any cracks or leaks. If you notice any water on the pipe itself or around the handle, it may be time for a replacement
Check the Water Shut-off Valve
Some homes might have a shut-off valve indoors that leads to the exterior plumbing fixtures. Typically, you’ll find the shut-off valve before your water meter in the plumbing system. This allows for an emergency stop when you need to stop any water in a plumbing emergency. If you turn your valve off that leads to your exterior, you’ll want to just make sure they’re completely open for spring to prevent any water pressure issues.
Are Your Drains Cleared?
Spring is one of the best times to check all of your outdoor drains. Over the course of fall and winter, it’s not unrealistic for a collection of dirt, leaves, twigs, and other debris to find its way into your outdoor drainage points and block proper drainage. Be sure to check to see if there are any drainage issues by pouring some water down your outdoor drains.
Here are a few signs of a blocked drain to keep an eye out for:
- Water backing up
- Foul-smelling odors
- Gurgling sounds
- Slow drainage
- Debris flowing back up the drain
Any of these signs could signal a problem that would require a professional drain cleaning company to come take a look. Gurgling could be a sign of trapped air due to a blockage in the drainage system. Odors could be a signal of rotten vegetation, animal, or insect matter somewhere in the drainage system. If you notice water flowing back up or debris, this could mean trouble during heavy spring rains, because that will cause flooding. There’s also a chance that if you have any large trees on your property, tree roots could have started to intrude on your system. Be sure to call Advanced Sewer & Drain Cleaning if you notice any of those signs.
Need Replacements for Aging Plumbing Fixtures?
Outdoor fixtures are bound to age, and here in Buffalo, the weather can take a toll on them over time. The cold, ice, and snow can contribute to more leaks and additional wear and tear. If your outdoor faucets are older than 10 to 15 years, it could be time to consider a replacement. Rust and corrosion can cause issues, and you’ll want to avoid forcing a handle, because that can cause leaks. Failing to address leakage outdoors can lead to seepage into your home and cause damage to the area around where the faucet sits.
Call Us If You Need Help!
If you have any questions regarding plumbing for your home in Buffalo, please don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re proud of the way we do business and are more than willing to come take a look. We offer competitive pricing and aim for the best plumbing customer service in Buffalo! Give us a call or reach out via our contact form to speak with someone regarding your plumbing issues asap, and we’ll be there asap!