Getting Your House Ready For Summer? 4 Areas You Need To Have Inspected By A Plumber
If you've just endured an unseasonably cold winter, now's the time to get your home ready for summer. Part of that preparation should involve a plumbing inspection, especially if the temperatures dipped into the freezing range this past winter. You might not realize this, but freezing temperatures can affect just about every component of your plumbing system. One way to avoid plumbing problems this summer is to schedule an inspection with your plumber. During the inspection, your plumber can focus on the areas that might be at risk for winter-related problems this summer. Here are four of the plumbing components that you need to focus on during the inspection.
Hot Water Heater
Now that winter is officially over, you'll want to have your water heater inspected. Freezing temperatures could have damaged the inner tank or the water pipes. Because of that risk, it's important that you schedule an inspection right away. It's also a good idea to have your plumber flush the water heater while they're out for the inspection. Flushing your water heater tank will remove any of the sediment that might have collected during the winter.
Outdoor Spigots
If your outdoor spigots were exposed to freezing temperatures this winter, now's the time to have them inspected by a plumber. Outdoor spigots tend to get a lot of use during the spring and summer. If they've been damaged during the winter, you could end up with leaks. Unfortunately, if the spigots leak behind the stucco or siding, you could end up with water damage. To avoid that, be sure to have your outdoor spigots inspected by a plumber as soon as possible.
Water Lines
If you endured freezing temperatures this past winter, it's a good idea to have your water lines inspected by a plumber. If your water lines didn't leak during the winter, you might think that you can forgo the inspection. However, that's not necessarily the case. Freezing temperatures might have created tiny cracks in the surface of your water lines. Over time, those cracks can spread, increasing the risk for ruptures and leaks. To make sure your water lines don't rupture this summer, arrange for a complete plumbing inspection.
Drain Pipes
If you did a lot of cooking this past winter, or you had house guests for the holidays, your drain pipes might have been overworked. If that's the case, there could be a collection of frozen gunk inside your drains, just waiting to cause a clog. If you're not sure what's inside your drains, schedule an inspection right away. Your plumber can clear the drains, which will reduce your risk of clogs and foul odors.
For more information, contact a local plumber.