As you start your spring cleaning for the year, don’t forget about your plumbing. The end of winter marks the perfect time to clean this often-overlooked area of your home. Make sure you inspect all drains, pipes, and fixtures to ensure everything still works properly and no clogs or leaks have developed. Neglecting your plumbing could lead to costly repairs down the road, so scheduling some preventative maintenance now can save you in the long run. 

Why Spring is the Ideal Time for Drain Maintenance

Winter Can Be Harsh on Your Pipes

Cold months can take a toll on your plumbing. Grease and bits of food tend to solidify easier in the winter, leading to minor issues that should be addressed in the spring. Freezing temperatures may have also caused minor cracks or blockages, leading to slow drains or leaks. You may also have clogs from fall and winter leaves that have disintegrated and built up.

Use spring cleaning to catch issues in your plumbing before they get worse, especially if your pipes froze and thawed throughout the winter. Some issues may be hard to catch when it’s cold, so make sure you inspect everything once it warms up. 

Increased Use in Warmer Months

As the weather warms up in the spring, your plumbing will experience more use. Better weather means outdoor gatherings, more frequent loads of laundry, sprinklers, and garden hose use, all of which put extra stress on your drains. Ensuring your plumbing is clean and clear during spring cleaning prevents inconvenient clogs later.

Spring Rain Can Exacerbate Drain Issues

Heavy spring rains mean additional pressure on your sewer system, leading to slow drainage, flooding, and even sewage backups if your drains aren’t functioning properly. During spring cleaning, check for blockages and cleaning out any debris now can help prevent a sewer overflow disaster during peak rainy season.

Signs Your Drains Need Attention

Even if you haven’t noticed major plumbing issues, subtle signs can indicate that your drains need cleaning. During spring cleaning and throughout the season keep an eye out for:

Slow Drains — Slow draining could indicate a developing clog. Addressing small clogs now will prevent big blockages in the future. 

Small Leaks — Small leaks waste water and can lead to bigger issues and costly repairs. Check near appliances, around the toilet, and under sinks for any signs of moisture. 

Unpleasant Odors — If you smell foul odors coming from your drains, it could indicate food particles or other debris trapped in your drain. 

Gurgling Sounds — Hearing bubbling or gurgling noises when water drains could mean there is an air pocket caused by a small or partial clog.

Recurring Clogs — If you find yourself constantly dealing with any of the issues above, you may have a deeper blockage that needs professional attention.

Essential Drain Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

Taking a proactive approach to drain maintenance can extend the life of your plumbing system and save you from costly repairs. Here are some simple yet effective ways to keep your drains clear and functioning properly this spring:

Flush Your Drains — Flushing your drains periodically with baking soda, vinegar, and hot water can break up minor debris, preventing bigger clogs in the future. You can also use boiling water once a month to loosen debris.  Make sure to remove hair from bathroom drains to prevent clogs.

Clean Your Garbage Disposal — Crushing ice in your disposal can get rid of build-up gunk, and small pieces of citrus peel can freshen it (just make sure not to use big pieces or do it often as the peel fibers can cause clogs).

Use a Drain Strainer — A drain strainer is a great preventive tool. It helps catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they go down your drain and clog your plumbing system. 

Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain — Remember to never pour grease or oil down your kitchen sink drain. It may seem harmless, but grease will solidify in your pipes, causing clogs and other major issues. Grease should always be properly thrown away in the trash.

Schedule a Professional Drain Cleaning — While DIY methods help, a professional cleaning will ensure your drains are free from deep clogs and buildup. Professionals can also catch and prevent any potential sewer line issues.

Remember to Spring Clean Your Drains

Spring cleaning isn’t just for your closets and garage — your plumbing also deserves some attention after a long winter. By taking the time to check your drains now, you avoid unexpected plumbing problems. Whether you need a quick DIY fix or a professional inspection, a little effort now can go a long way in maintaining a healthy plumbing system.