Spring Plumbing Checklist for Homeowners

karney plumbing
May 27
3 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

As the weather warms and winter thaws away, spring is the perfect time to give your plumbing system some attention. Months of cold temperatures can be hard on your pipes, fixtures, and appliances, and early maintenance now can help prevent costly repairs down the road.

Use this simple Spring Plumbing Checklist to inspect, clean, and prepare your home’s plumbing for the months ahead.

🌧️ 1. Inspect Outdoor Faucets and Hoses Plumbing Checklist

Winter temperatures can cause outdoor faucets and pipes to freeze and crack. When spring arrives:

Check outdoor spigots for leaks or drips.
Reattach and test garden hoses.
Look for signs of a pipe burst, like low pressure or water spraying.
Replace any cracked hoses or hose bibs.

Pro Tip: If you had your outdoor plumbing winterized, make sure to turn the water supply back on slowly.

🚽 2. Check Toilets for Leaks or Running Water

A leaky toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water each month. Here's how to inspect:

Listen for continuous running water after flushing.
Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank—wait 10–15 minutes and see if it appears in the bowl (a sign of a leak).
Check the flapper and fill valve for wear and tear.

🛁 3. Clean and Test Drains

Spring is a great time to flush out slow drains and remove built-up debris or sediment.

Use a natural cleaner (like baking soda and vinegar) followed by hot water.
Remove hair and soap scum from bathroom drains.
Check for standing water or foul odors, which could signal a clog or vent issue.

🪠 4. Test Your Sump Pump

Heavy spring rains can lead to basement flooding. Make sure your sump pump is ready:

Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to see if the pump activates.
Check the discharge line outside to make sure it's clear.
Clean the pump inlet screen and test the float switch.

If your sump pump is older than 7–10 years or doesn’t kick on during testing, consider a replacement.

💧 5. Inspect Water Heater for Wear and Sediment

After working hard through the winter, your water heater deserves a checkup.

Look for signs of rust, leaks, or puddles under the unit.
Listen for popping or rumbling sounds, which indicate sediment buildup.
Drain a few gallons from the tank to flush out sediment.
Set the thermostat to 120°F for energy efficiency and safety.

🚰 6. Look for Leaks Under Sinks and Appliances

Check all exposed pipes and connections:

Look under kitchen and bathroom sinks for moisture or mold.
Inspect around the dishwasher, washing machine, and refrigerator for puddles.
Tighten loose connections and replace worn hoses if needed.

🏡 7. Check Irrigation and Sprinkler Systems

Before your lawn greens up:

Turn the system on slowly to avoid a pressure surge.
Walk around and inspect sprinkler heads for cracks, clogs, or misalignment.
Repair or replace damaged heads and ensure coverage is even.

🚿 8. Test Water Pressure

Spring is a good time to make sure your home’s water pressure is within a healthy range (typically 40–60 PSI).

Use a water pressure gauge at a hose bib or utility sink.
High pressure can damage fixtures, while low pressure may indicate a hidden leak or clogged pipe.
A plumber can install a pressure regulator if needed.

✅ Final Thoughts

Regular seasonal plumbing checks can help you catch small issues early, extend the life of your plumbing system, and give you peace of mind heading into the warmer months.

If you’d rather leave the inspection to a pro—or if you find something concerning—Karney Plumbing is here to help with expert spring plumbing services.