Still, we love spring here at Combat Plumbing, and if you take the right approach to your plumbing needs, we think you will too.

Here are the three big steps you’ll need to take to get your home’s plumbing systems ready for spring:

1.) Get Ready for the Rain

Springtime in Red Oak means wet weather, and lots of it. Before March comes in like a lion and April brings her legendary showers, take some time to make sure that your home is ready for the deluge by inspecting your home’s siding and foundation for any leaks and cracks, which can easily let runoff and snowmelt creep into your home, leading to mold – or worse.

Perhaps even more importantly, the early days of spring are the perfect time to make sure that your sump pump is in working order. This handy system, which gathers and pumps groundwater out of the lowest levels of your home, is your strongest line of defense against a flooded basement, so be sure it’s ready to go!

Check your sump pump for any gathered debris or blockages, make sure its pipes weren’t damaged by winter’s snow or ice, check your electrical connections, and maybe even consider investing in a backup sump pump, which can be a lifesaver in times of severe flooding.

Want an easy way to test your sump pump before disaster strikes? Simply pour a few buckets of water into the sump pump’s pit or basing. Within seconds, the pump’s float should be triggered and the unit should kick on. If this doesn’t occur, your sump pump may be defective – meaning it’s probably time to have a pro come in and take a better look.

2.) Check the Outside of Your Home

Winter can really wreak havoc on a Red Oak home, especially the outdoor elements of your plumbing system. As we start to thaw out of the deep freeze, be sure to thoroughly inspect all of your outdoor spigots and hose bibs, just to make sure they aren’t cracked, leaky, or otherwise damaged. While you’re outside, take some time to check up on your gutters and downspouts; debris can easily get into your gutters and spouts over the winter, causing blockages which in turn become major leaks and major flooding.

3.) Think About How You’re Going to Go Green

Spring is a time for renewal and rebirth – so how about spending those warmer, greener days giving back to the planet? Before you get bogged down by spring cleaning, take some time to think up some green plumbing resolutions to help save water – and big bucks – as we move into the warmer months of the year.

The actions you take can be large or small; every little bit makes a difference! Consider adopting green gardening and landscaping techniques, think more strategically about saving and reusing water around the house, and, if it’s in your budget, look into updating some of your home plumbing systems, opting for high efficiency models or green modifications like low flow shower heads and aerators.

Of course, the best way to make sure that your plumbing system is ready for spring is to have a pro come and give it the once-over. Whether your goal is to save money, go green, or simply make it through the rainy season without a leak, it pays to take a proactive approach to your plumbing. Drop our team a line whenever you’re ready to set something up!