Spring in Connecticut means warmer weather, melting snow, and heavy rain showers. While it’s a welcome change from the harsh winter, spring also brings a new set of plumbing challenges for homeowners. At Russell Services, we help Danbury-area residents prepare their homes for the season with proactive plumbing maintenance. Here are the top five spring plumbing problems—and what you can do to avoid them.
1. Clogged or Slow Drains
During winter, grease, hair, and soap residue often build up in your pipes. When spring hits and water usage increases, this buildup can lead to clogs or slow drainage.
Prevention Tips:
- Avoid pouring grease or food scraps down the kitchen sink.
- Use drain strainers to catch hair and debris.
- Flush drains monthly with a mix of baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water.
- Schedule professional drain cleaning if slow drainage persists.
2. Cracked or Leaking Pipes
Freezing temperatures in winter can cause pipes to contract and even crack. When they thaw in spring, leaks often become more noticeable.
Prevention Tips:
- Inspect exposed pipes for signs of moisture or rust.
- Check under sinks, around appliances, and in crawl spaces.
- Call a plumber immediately if you notice unusual water spots or spikes in your water bill.
3. Sewer Line Backups
Spring rain can overwhelm city sewers, increasing the risk of backups in your home’s main sewer line.
Prevention Tips:
- Install a backwater valve to prevent sewage from entering your home.
- Avoid flushing wipes, paper towels, or other non-flushable items.
- Have your sewer line professionally inspected and cleaned if you experience recurring issues.
4. Sump Pump Failures
Heavy spring rains test your sump pump’s ability to keep your basement dry. A non-functioning unit can lead to flooding and mold.
Prevention Tips:
- Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit.
- Clean the pit and ensure the float switch moves freely.
- Check the discharge line for blockages or freezing.
- Consider a battery backup system for added security.
5. Leaky Outdoor Faucets and Hose Bibs
Exterior faucets often freeze and crack during winter. When turned on in spring, they may leak or cause water damage inside walls.
Prevention Tips:
- Turn on the outdoor faucet and check for drips or water pooling.
- Inspect the interior wall behind the faucet for signs of moisture.
- Replace worn washers or call a professional to assess deeper issues.
Protect Your Home with Preventative Plumbing
Spring is the perfect time to inspect your plumbing system and prevent small issues from turning into major headaches. At Russell Services, we offer seasonal inspections, repairs, and maintenance to help homeowners in Danbury and beyond enjoy peace of mind all year long.
Call us today at 203-994-2357 or visit www.russellservicesct.com to schedule your spring plumbing check-up!
