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As the winter chill fades away, it’s time to welcome the refreshing season of spring. With blooming flowers, warmer temperatures, and longer days, it’s also the perfect time to give your home a fresh start. 

When seasons change, many homeowners will begin to realize some of the effects the winter months had on their home—broken pipes, cracked hose bibbs, sump pump failures, etc. After a cold winter, you may be ready for warmer weather, but most importantly, is your home’s plumbing?

Here are a few quick tips for you to consider this spring:

Clear debris from places such as your downspouts and any area surrounding your sump pump discharge line. 🪠

With any additional snow melting and upcoming rain, it’s very important to inspect your sump pump discharge line to make sure nothing is clogged or blocked.

Test your sump pump.

 All too often, we see flooded basements due to sump pump malfunctions. We advise that you follow these tips to test your system.

  • Locate the outside pipe that catches the water as it drains from the pump. Ensure the inside of the pipe doesn’t have any dirt or debris clogging the drain.
  • Fill a 5-gallon bucket or a large cooking pot with water. Slowly pour the water into the sump pit and watch the water level within the pit.
  • The float on the sump should rise, and the pump will kick on well before the water reaches the top of the pit. As the pit empties, the system should turn off.
  • The pump should be further inspected if the float doesn’t rise or the pump doesn’t turn on/off automatically.
  • This may seem like common sense, but ensure the pump is plugged into a working outlet. Sometimes damp areas of a basement can cause electrical outlets to trip.
  • Repeat these steps every two to three months.

Inspect your property for blockages or obstructions that could prevent any remaining melting snow from draining. 🚰

If you can, clear debris, such as leaves, twigs, etc., from your gutters so water can drain appropriately.

Usually inspect your outside pipes for leaks and damage. 👀

This is especially important for your hose bibb, also known as an outdoor faucet, although it might be a little early to turn your outside water back on. Once the weather gets a bit warmer, this is something you’ll want to keep in mind. 

These are just a few important spring plumbing tips to remember. If you require a plumber this spring, don’t hesitate to contact us or give us a call at (603) 661-7632. JMS Plumbing & Heating is ready to help you!