Residential Plumbing: Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Spring Cleaning
April 3rd, 2025
Spring cleaning is an annual tradition for many of us. It’s the perfect time to tidy up, clean spaces, and do a deep clean. However, when it comes to plumbing, it’s essential to proceed with caution. Many mistakes can happen during this time, which could lead to costly problems in the long run. In this article, we’ll explore common mistakes to avoid during your spring cleaning to preserve your plumbing and avoid unnecessary repairs.
- Neglecting Drain Maintenance
During spring cleaning, many people focus only on surface cleaning and often forget the drains. Kitchen, bathroom, and shower drains can accumulate grease, hair, food debris, and other residues over time. If these aren’t removed, they can lead to clogs, bad odors, and backups.
Mistake to avoid: Don’t just pour chemical drain cleaners down your pipes. These products can be corrosive and damage pipes over time. It’s better to use a plunger or call a professional for a deep clean.
- Ignoring Hidden Leaks
Water leaks are often hidden, especially under sinks, in walls, or floors. They can be difficult to spot but can cause significant water damage if not fixed quickly. Spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to check your plumbing for leaks.
Mistake to avoid: Failing to check pipes or joints that may be worn. An invisible leak can lead to higher water bills and structural damage to your home. If you notice damp spots or cracks in your walls or ceilings, it’s time to have your plumbing professionally inspected.
- Using Harsh Chemical Drain Cleaners
Many people tend to use powerful chemical cleaners to unclog drains, thinking they are effective at eliminating blockages. However, these products can damage pipes, seals, and even the environment. Additionally, they release toxic fumes that can be harmful to your health.
Mistake to avoid: Using chemicals without considering their long-term effects. Opt for natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar, or consult a plumber for professional cleaning.
- Overlooking Water Pressure
In spring, it’s essential to check your home’s water pressure. High water pressure can damage your pipes and cause leaks, while low pressure can affect your daily comfort. It’s important to ensure that your water pressure is balanced and functioning correctly.
Mistake to avoid: Not regularly checking your water pressure. If you notice the water pressure is too high or low, it’s best to call a plumber to adjust your pressure regulator. This can help avoid costly repairs down the line.
- Neglecting Water Heater Maintenance
A well-maintained water heater is essential for ensuring a constant supply of hot water. With the arrival of spring, it’s the ideal time to perform maintenance on your water heater. Cleaning it helps prevent sediment buildup, which can reduce its efficiency and lead to premature failure.
Mistake to avoid: Failing to clean or check your water heater regularly. It’s recommended to drain the water heater annually to remove accumulated sediments and extend its lifespan.
- Forgetting to Check Outdoor Systems
If you have outdoor plumbing installations, such as garden faucets or drainage pipes, it’s also a good idea to check them during your spring cleaning. Winter freezing can damage these installations, leading to leaks or pipe ruptures.
Mistake to avoid: Not checking outdoor plumbing after winter. Ensure that outdoor faucets are functioning correctly and that pipes don’t have cracks before using them again. If you notice any issues, a plumber can perform the necessary repairs.
Conclusion
Spring cleaning is the perfect time to clean and organize your home, but don’t forget that your plumbing needs attention too. By avoiding these common mistakes and regularly maintaining your plumbing system, you can prevent costly plumbing problems and improve the efficiency of your system. If you’re unsure about the state of your plumbing or need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to Plomberie Richard et Fils. Our experts are here to help you maintain your plumbing in excellent condition and prevent any headaches during your spring cleaning.
