Spring Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

As the weather warms up in Chattanooga and North Georgia, spring is the perfect time to give your home’s plumbing system a check-up. After a long winter, pipes, fixtures, and drains may need attention to prevent costly problems down the road.

Here’s your go-to spring plumbing maintenance checklist to keep things flowing smoothly:

1. Check for Leaks Indoors and Out

Inspect faucets, showerheads, toilets, and under-sink areas for any signs of dripping or moisture. Even a small leak can waste gallons of water over time and increase your utility bills. Don’t forget to check outdoor spigots and hoses—freeze damage during winter can cause slow leaks that often go unnoticed.

2. Test Your Sump Pump

Spring showers can lead to basement flooding if your sump pump isn’t working properly. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and make sure the pump turns on and drains the water efficiently. If it doesn’t kick in, call a plumber to inspect or replace it before the next heavy rain.

3. Flush and Inspect Your Water Heater

Drain a few gallons from your water heater to remove built-up sediment, which can reduce efficiency and shorten the unit’s lifespan. Also, inspect for rust, corrosion, or signs of leakage. Spring is a good time to schedule maintenance or consider an upgrade if your unit is 10+ years old.

4. Inspect and Clean Gutters & Downspouts

While not technically part of your plumbing, gutters and downspouts help direct water away from your foundation. Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling near your home, which may affect your sump pump and increase the risk of leaks.

5. Look for Slow Drains

If you notice water draining slowly in sinks, tubs, or showers, it may be a sign of buildup or partial blockages in your pipes. Use a safe drain cleaner or schedule a professional drain cleaning to clear them out before they turn into a backup.

6. Check Water Pressure

Low or inconsistent water pressure can be a sign of buildup in pipes, minor leaks, or issues with your pressure-reducing valve. Make note of any unusual changes and have a plumber investigate if needed.

7. Inspect Exposed Pipes

Pipes in crawlspaces, basements, or garages may have cracked or corroded during freezing weather. Check for signs of damage or sweating, and schedule repairs as needed to prevent future leaks.

8. Test Outdoor Faucets & Irrigation Systems

Turn on outdoor faucets and hose bibs to ensure they’re working correctly after winter. Check your sprinkler or irrigation system for broken heads, leaks, or low water pressure. Fixing these now helps conserve water and avoid higher bills in summer.

Ready to Schedule a Spring Plumbing Check-Up?

At Scenic City Plumbing, we’re here to help Chattanooga-area homeowners stay ahead of plumbing issues year-round. If you notice any signs of trouble—or just want peace of mind—schedule your spring maintenance visit with us today.

Call (423) 870-0075