When the weather warms up in San Pedro, CA, it’s time to inspect and test your plumbing system. You want to ensure your drains, pipes and other components fared well during winter. Plus, you can prepare your plumbing for the outdoor activities that await. Our team at Big League Plumbing is ready to help you check everything from the indoor appliances to the outdoor faucets.
Schedule Professional Plumbing Maintenance
Once winter is over, consider scheduling plumbing maintenance with Big League Plumbing in San Pedro. During maintenance, we’ll check your water meter, faucets, fixtures, water heater, drains, pipes and sump pump for problems. We’ll also identify and address low water pressure, clogs and leaks. Our goal is to catch minor issues before they escalate and prevent more problems from occurring. This way, you can save money and stress on costly repairs or replacements.
Test the Water Pressure
When performing your own plumbing maintenance, it’s essential to test for steady water pressure. You need to ensure your plumbing system is ready for water activities during the warmer seasons. Use a gauge to ensure the pressure is 40 to 60 psi. You can also test your outdoor faucets by turning them on full blast and checking the water pressure. If you notice any issues, contact a professional plumber.
Perform a Water Heater Check
Inspect your water heater for rust, corrosion and leaks. You should also check the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve to ensure it’s working properly. The valve is essential for releasing pressure if the tank’s temperature is too high.
You also need to flush and remove sediment buildup. Start by turning off the power or gas supply. Next, connect a garden hose to the drain valve. Then, open the valve and let the water run until it’s clear.
Inspect the Appliances’ Hoses
Now is a great time to check the hoses on your washing machine, dishwasher and refrigerator ice maker. First, check the hose connection between each appliance and the water supply. If need be, connect them. Next, check each hose for damage such as cracks, bulges and wear. If you notice any issues, replace the hoses or contact an expert immediately. Otherwise, you increase the risk of leaks, floods and water damage.
Maintain the Garbage Disposal
You may spend the warmer seasons cooking and entertaining outdoors, so you want to ensure your garbage disposal is ready. Maintain your garbage disposal by running cold water while using it. You also want to avoid putting fibrous or hard foods down the drain, including bones, egg shells and corn husks. It’s also important to avoid putting grease, oils, fats and coffee grounds down the drain. When it’s time to clean and deodorize the garbage disposal, grind a few ice cubes and citrus peels.
Check for Toilet Leaks
While you’re performing plumbing maintenance tasks, take the time to test your toilet for leaks. This prevents a costly repair or high water bill during spring or summer. Start by putting food coloring in the toilet tank. If the color appears in the toilet bowl within 30 minutes, there may be a leak. You also want to inspect the toilet for visible damage, such as cracks. If you notice any leaks or damage, contact our team to discuss a repair or upgrade.
Maintain Drains and Pipes
You also need to check your drains and pipes for blockages. This includes checking under the sinks for excess moisture and in your sinks, showers and tubs for slow drains. Use a plunger or drain snake to remove hair, soap scum, food particles or grease from your drains. You can also pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup of vinegar. Wait 15 minutes and then add hot water. This breaks down the buildup in your pipes. Another idea is to pour a gallon of water down the drains you don’t use often. This fills the trap and prevents odors.
If you cannot clear the clogs or they keep occurring, contact Big League Plumbing for drain cleaning. We’ll perform a camera inspection and use hydro jetting as needed.
Inspect the Sump Pump
Spring and summer can bring a lot of rain, including heavy storms. Without a working sump pump, your basement or crawl space is prone to flooding. This is why it’s crucial to ensure your sump pump is working. You can test the sump pump by slowly pouring five gallons of water into its basin. The pump should turn on and remove the water. If your sump pump isn’t working properly, contact a plumber to prevent water damage to your home.
Inspect for Pipe Expansion
When temperatures rise during the warmer seasons, pipes can expand. This puts stress on the pipes’ joints, leading to potential damage. Inspect the pipes for leaks around the joints and fittings, and contact our team if you find any issues. It’s essential to repair or replace the pipes before they burst.
Locate the Main Water Valve
In case of an emergency, it’s helpful to locate the main shut-off water valve. Once you find the valve, ensure you know how to operate it. If you’re unsure, you can ask your plumber during your routine maintenance visit. We’ll help you find and operate the valve, preparing you for unexpected issues.
Inspect the Outdoor Faucets
The warmer weather is a great time to inspect your outdoor faucets. Start by checking for leaks on the hose bibbs of each faucet. Next, ensure they’re not dripping. If you notice any dripping, turn off the water supply at the indoor shut-off valve. You may only need to replace the rubber washer or tighten the packing nut. However, an expert can help determine the cause of your dripping hose bibb.
Check the Sprinkler System
You also need to inspect your sprinkler system to ensure it’s ready for the warmer months. Start by inspecting the irrigation lines for leaks, and contact a professional if needed. You also want to clean the sprinkler heads to ensure maximum performance.
Maintain the Drainage Systems
It never hurts to check and maintain your drainage systems as well. They’re part of the roof plumbing system, and they’re important for preventing water damage to your home. Inspect and clean the gutters and downspouts. You need to ensure these components are channeling water away from your home’s foundation.
Schedule Plumbing Services With [company_Name] Today
Since 2019, our family-owned and operated business has provided high-quality plumbing services throughout San Pedro and the surrounding areas. Our team is full of experts in their craft, from plumbing maintenance to leak detection and repiping. We also provide drain cleaning, drain repair, camera inspections and hydro jetting, detecting and removing stubborn clogs. Other services include tank and tankless water heaters, piping, water filtration, kitchen and bathroom plumbing and trenchless sewer repair. Whether you need a tankless water heater installation or garbage disposal repair, you can turn to us. We’re proud to have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. You can also find positive reviews from satisfied customers on Google, Facebook, Yelp and HomeAdvisor.
When you’re ready to schedule plumbing maintenance in San Pedro, contact Big League Plumbing today.
