Key Takeaways
- Check outdoor spigots for freeze damage before you connect a hose.
- Test the sump pump before spring storms, not during them.
- Flush the water heater and test the relief valve.
- Walk the house for drips, damp spots and slow drains.
Outside the House
- Test outdoor spigots. Turn the interior shut-off back on, open the spigot, and check inside the wall for leaks. A pipe that split over the winter may only leak when the faucet is on.
- Check the sump pump discharge line is clear and draining away from the house.
- Clear gutters and downspouts and make sure water drains away from the foundation.
- Look for soggy spots in the yard, which can mean a leaking service line or sewer lateral.
Safety first
If you see water inside the wall or basement when you open an outdoor faucet, shut it off and call. A freeze-split pipe will keep leaking every time it's used.
In the Basement
- Test the sump pump. Pour a bucket of water into the pit. It should start, empty and stop. See wet basements and sump pumps in Rockville.
- Check the battery backup if you have one.
- Flush the water heater to clear winter sediment, and test the relief valve.
- Look at exposed pipes for drips, corrosion and green crust at fittings.
- Check floor drains by pouring water in to make sure they drain freely.
Kitchen and Bathrooms
- Look under sinks for drips and water stains
- Check toilets for running water with the dye test
- Clean aerators and showerheads of mineral scale
- Watch for slow drains before they become clogs
Your Spring Checklist at a Glance
| Task | Why |
|---|---|
| Test outdoor spigots | Find freeze damage early |
| Test sump pump and backup | Ready for spring storms |
| Flush water heater | Clear sediment, longer life |
| Check under sinks | Catch small leaks |
| Toilet dye test | Find silent leaks |
| Clean aerators | Restore flow |
When to Call a Plumber
Call if you find a leak inside a wall, a pump that won't run, a water heater that's leaking or more than 10 years old, or drains that are slow throughout the house. A spring plumbing inspection covers everything on this list, and our sump pump service gets the basement ready for storm season.
For the colder months, see our winter plumbing maintenance tips. We serve Rockville, Derwood and Potomac.
