As the ice crystals atop Lake Ontario begin to make way for the rushing waters of spring, and marigolds and peonies peak their bright heads through melting snowbanks, Torontonians will know that the long-awaited arrival of spring is here. In Canadian climates, where the frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall of the winter season can seem to last forever, spring is especially welcome, and Northern dwellers can be found outdoors soaking up those long-awaited rays on sun-starved faces. But at the end of winter also comes the need for spring outdoor plumbing maintenance. Frost damage and outdoor faucet inspections will need to take place, for example, so your yard is ready to make way for lush grasses, leafy, green trees and vibrant florals. However, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to maintenance jobs. Well, no need to worry! We've put together a thorough checklist of items around the yard to check and prep for the coming seasons.
In this blog post, our Toronto plumber lays out the areas that need your careful attention and the maintenance and upkeep tasks you can perform to clear the way for spring. So, without further ado, let's dive into the spring outdoor plumbing maintenance checklist you need!
Areas That Need Your Attention for Annual Spring Outdoor Plumbing Maintenance
The changing of seasons is one of life's few certainties you can depend on. To make the most of spring and summer, you'll want to ensure your outdoor home plumbing features are in prime condition, de-winterized and performing optimally for the gardening season. Learn more about the specific features that require your attention when it comes to spring outdoor plumbing maintenance in Toronto.
1. Check Outdoor Faucets & Spigots
As the gardening season approaches, it's important to ensure your outdoor faucets (also known as hose bibs or spigots) are ready for use. After all, they play an integral role in many facets of yard care such as watering plants and gardens, cleaning exterior surfaces, washing pets, filling pools and water play. But what spring outdoor plumbing maintenance measures should you partake in to ensure your faucets are ready for their most busy seasons? Find out below.
Faucet Maintenance
- Inspection: Inspect spigots for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or wear and tear. If any damage is present, replace the O-rings and worn-out washers immediately.
- Cleaning: If you've noticed mineral deposits or sediment in your outdoor taps, use a vinegar solution to enhance proper water flow.
- Open Shut-Off Valve: Allow water to flow to the hose bib by opening the shut-off valve and tightening any loose valve for peak performance.
2. Test Sump Pumps
As temperatures warm and snow melts, ensuring a working sump pump is in place is an essential measure in preventing basement flooding, water damage and subsequent foundational damage. Sump pumps detect rising water levels and divert excess water safely away from your home. As water rises, a float switch is activated in the sump pump pit and triggers the pump to turn on. Find out how to maintain this essential feature below when performing spring outdoor plumbing maintenance.
Sump Pump Maintenance
- Check Power Connection: Your sump pump can't perform its job without power. Inspect your sump pump connection by using an electrical tester to ensure power is flowing to the outlet.
- Test Your Sump Pump: Test the sump pump by pouring water into the pit. This will activate the device, and you'll be able to detect whether it drains water correctly. If you hear any unusual noises, you may have a problem with your device.
- Clean the Inlet Screen: Turn off the pump and clean the inlet screen of debris with a wire brush.
3. Check Leak Detection Equipment
As temperatures freeze in winter, your pipes are prone to freezing. As pipes freeze, they will expand and can crack or burst. When the weather warms, these cracks will become more apparent and lead to water leaks. Even small leaks can spell disaster for your plumbing system. Because your pipes are out of sight, it can be difficult to tell whether they're leaking or not. That's where leak detectors come in. But, even if you have leak detection measures in place, they'll need proper spring outdoor plumbing maintenance to stay up to snuff. Learn more below.
Leak Detection Checks & Maintenance
- Inspect Plumbing: Walk around your property and check to see if plumbing fixtures, visible pipes and appliances have any leaks.
- Cleaning: Ensure any leak detection devices you have are clean and dry. Protect pumps and sensors by keeping them in a safe place.
- Equipment Checks: Verify sensor connections are intact, proper flow through probes and accurate detection.
4. Check Perimeter and Yard Drains
Yard and perimeter drains play an imperative role in ensuring surface water that settles in your yard is managed and redirected away from your home. Yard drains are installed with a catch basin in low-lying areas, and perimeter drains (also known as weeping tile or French drains) help prevent flooding and structural damage to your home. During the snowmelt season, drain clogs are all too common.
Perimeter and Yard Drain Maintenance
- Clean Drain Grate: Remove debris, leaves and twigs from the grate to ensure optimal drainage. Clear the area around the drain using a broom.
- Check Termination Points: Ensure termination points are cleared of debris and blockages. Remove obstructions by hand or shop vac.
Turn to Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Toronto for All Your Spring Outdoor Plumbing Maintenance Needs Today!
Now that you know what items to pay attention to for spring outdoor plumbing maintenance, you may need a little extra help to ensure your exterior plumbing fixtures, leak detection services and more are up to snuff. That's when you'll know it's time to turn to the plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Toronto for professional maintenance. Toronto, The Beaches and East York homeowners can depend on our expert service.
Call us today to book an appointment! Ensure your home's plumbing system is running smoothly with our professional plumbers on the job to take care of a wide range of plumbing issues.
