Prepare Your Plumbing for April Showers
April showers bring May flowers—and potential plumbing problems! While we welcome the spring weather, the increased moisture can put a strain on your plumbing system. To avoid issues, Abel Plumbing has put together some simple tips to help you prepare for the rainy season ahead.
Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow, leading to leaks in your roof, walls, and even into your basement. The excess water can also damage your plumbing system if it pools around your foundation or overload your sump pump.
What to Do:
Clean out any debris like leaves, twigs, and dirt from your gutters.
Make sure downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation.
Consider installing gutter guards to prevent debris from collecting in the future.
Check for Leaks
Increased humidity from April showers can bring hidden leaks to light. Whether it’s a small drip or a major leak, addressing these issues early can help you avoid more significant water damage down the line.
What to Do:
Check under sinks, around your toilet, and near your water heater for any signs of leaks.
Inspect your pipes, faucets, and showerheads for any slow drips.
If you find any leaks, call Abel Plumbing right away for an inspection and repair.
Test Your Sump Pump
Spring rain often means a higher chance of flooding, especially in areas with a history of heavy rain. If you have a sump pump in your basement, now is the time to make sure it’s working properly.
What to Do:
Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to make sure it activates and drains the water properly. If you find your sump pump is in need of repair, contact Abel Plumbing right away!
Check the discharge pipe to ensure it’s free from obstructions.
If your sump pump is more than 10 years old or showing signs of wear, consider replacing it before the rainy season.
Assess Water Pressure and Drainage
Heavy rains can sometimes overwhelm plumbing systems, leading to backups or poor drainage. Low water pressure or slow drainage could signal underlying issues that may become worse when the rain hits. If you’re noticing that your home’s water pressure is inconsistent or low, your drains or sewer lines may be clogged.
What to Do:
Check the bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry room drains to ensure they clear water quickly and efficiently. Slow drainage may indicate a clog that needs attention.
If you notice that your water pressure is low or you’re having trouble with your sewer line, Abel Plumbing can assess the issue with a video inspection.
If you notice any drainage issues, call Abel Plumbing to inspect and clear out any potential blockages before they become a bigger problem.
Locate Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
Knowing how to turn off your water quickly can prevent further damage in a plumbing emergency, such as a burst pipe or an overflowing toilet. If you’re unsure where your main water shut-off valve is, now is the time to find it.
What to Do:
Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve and make sure it’s easy to access.
Test the valve to ensure it’s in good working condition.
If you're unsure how to operate the valve or if it seems faulty, call Abel Plumbing for guidance.
April showers don’t have to bring plumbing headaches. By taking these simple steps, you can keep your home safe and dry throughout the spring season (and beyond!).
Need help? Call Abel Plumbing today at 763-682-4105 or contact us online to schedule your plumbing inspection or repairs. Let us help you prepare for April showers—and keep your plumbing running smoothly all year!