As you step into your yard for some gardening and landscaping work this spring, you’re probably wondering if your outdoor hoses and spigots could use some maintenance. Here is a brief guide to checking your outdoor plumbing fixtures so that you can be sure your outdoor plumbing runs smoothly all spring and summer long.
Check your gutter system.
Your gutter system may not involve underground pipes, but it is a central part of your outdoor plumbing infrastructure nonetheless. In fact, your gutter system will probably see the most maintenance as far as your outdoor plumbing is concerned. It’s a good idea to check your gutters and downspout at least quarterly—and of course every time there seems to be a clog in your gutter system. Inspect your gutters and downspouts for leaves, debris, and twigs, and clean them out at the beginning of every spring and fall season. If you don’t do this often enough, you could risk having excess water pour out over your gutters and onto the sides of your house, potentially causing water damage to your roof and siding.
Inspect outdoor faucets and hose bibs.
Outdoor faucets and spigots have to endure harsh weather conditions and wide ranging temperatures, so they need to be maintained every now and again. Inspect your outdoor faucets every month or so (or simply whenever you go to use them), checking for cracks, leaks, and steady dripping. A leak or steady drip could cause you to waste hundreds of gallons of water every month, not to mention all of that extra money in your water bill.
One tip for checking your outdoor faucet (or any faucet, for that matter) for an extra slow drip: attach a paper bag to your faucet with a rubber band and come back in an hour or two. If the bag is wet, it might be time to call a professional residential plumber.
Look for signs of a flawed septic system.
If your home uses a septic system (this is most common in rural areas), it’s important to look for signs of damage. Look for unusually wet spots, foul smelling areas, and grass that is greener and healthier looking than surrounding areas Additionally, remember that your tank should be pumped, and the filter cleaned along with it, every two to five years.
Test your sump pump.
Your sump pump is important for protecting your home’s basement from water damage, so it’s a good idea to test it at least one per year. An easy way to test it is to pour some water into the crock, turn your pump on, and make sure it pumps the water effectively.
