Spring is a time for lots of things, and most of them have to do with fresh starts, new beginnings, and rejuvenation.

Where we can be helpful is to provide you with some timely tips to help make sure your household plumbing is ready for the spring.   By doing a little detective work now, you’ll have much more time to enjoy the beautiful weather that surely lies just around the corner.

Spring is that time of year when the ground completely thaws, all the snow finally melts, “April showers” roll in and many basements get flooded as a result.  We’d hate to see yours become one of them, so here’s how to make sure it doesn’t:

Check your sump pump to see if it’s working properly by pouring a bucket of water in the pit and then activating the switch.  Also, be sure the discharge line is clear of leaves or other debris.

• Consider a back-up sump pump.  These turn on either when your main sump pump fails or your home loses power.  At Edwardson Plumbing, we offer battery-back up sump pumps.
• Don’t have a sump pump at all and your home or other homes in your neighborhood are prone to basement flooding?  This might be the time to join the club.

Leaky faucets also deserve prompt attention.

• Leaky faucets and leaks in general can cause structural damage before you even realize something’s wrong.   Watch for water under your refrigerator, damp spots or water stains on your walls or ceilings, and the smell of must or mold.
• Give a quick visual inspection for areas that are more prone to leaks such as an ice maker supply line, washing machine hose and outdoor hose faucets.

How can you find out if your toilet is running?

• Pour a teaspoon of food coloring in the tank and then, about a half hour later, check your toilet bowl.  If the water is tinged that same color…yep, you guessed it, a leaking toilet tank!

Do you experience low water pressure?

• While there are many possible causes, these are the ones we discover most often:  a problem with your water heater, the need to have your water softener serviced, a hidden water leak, or, if you have a well, a problem with your pressure tank.

Remember…if you need a plumber…..give Edwardson Plumbing at call! (608) 290-9144