While plumbing maintenance may not be a traditional element of spring cleaning, you might want to think about adding it to your list when getting your home ready for the summer months.
Small checks in the next few weeks can help to avoid bigger, and more expensive issues down the line. In this article we will outline the little tests you can do to ensure everything is in working order.
But for boiler servicing in Hemel Hempstead, as well as plumbing repairs and maintenance, get in touch with Gas Tech Heating Ltd. Now, lets take a look at our spring plumbing tips.
Check for leaks and drips
A common annoyance that can lead to disaster for homeowners is leaks. So, while you undertake your spring cleaning, take notice of those dripping taps or shower heads, as this may mean that something else going on behind the scenes. Equally, check for damp patches under sinks or around pipework as this is another clear sign of an issue.
A leak in your home will not only lead to interior damage, but it will also cause your water bill to rise unnecessarily. So, as part of your spring-cleaning routine we recommend a simple leak test.
By turning off the stop tap in your home, and monitoring your water meter – you can test whether there is a leak. If the dial on your water meter is moving, while no water in your home is running, it is possible you have a leak and will need assistance from a plumber. And for quick and easy repairs and general plumbing maintenance, Gas Tech Heating Ltd are on hand to help.
Test your water pressure
While low pressure may be ruining your morning shower, it is possible that this is also the result of a leak. With water escaping elsewhere, there will be a minimised flow coming directly through your shower or tap, and not only is it a worry about where the water is going, but it is also going to ramp up your water bill.
United Utilities suggests a low pressure water test for taps. This consists of checking that your tap can quickly and easily fill up a glass, or kettle, and if this is a struggle – with water simply trickling out, it could be a sign of a leak. In this case, contact a professional to help, and to avoid a major bill over water you haven’t even used.
Clean out drains and traps
Drains, and drain traps (the bend in your pipe), can easily become blocked over time from hair, soap and food build-up, and you may have noticed this from the inches of water that you stand in every time you have a shower. But through natural cleaning methods like baking soda and vinegar, boiling water and tools like drain snakes you can remove the blockages yourself.
When all else fails on your more severe blockages, harsher chemicals like drain un-blocker gels can be used. However, for lasting results – a plumber will be able to successfully remove the cause and get your drain back up and running in no time.
Flush your water heater or get your boiler serviced
Have you seen a change in the quality of water and heat provided by your water heater? Sediment buildup in water heaters can present many issues for homeowners.
Telltale signs that you have a sediment buildup in your hot water system include:
- Your water heater is making hissing or rumbling sounds
- Your water is warm but not hot
- Your hot water is cloudy or rust-coloured
- Your energy bills are higher than usual
And while you can flush your water heater manually, a regular boiler service can ensure that you are free from sediment buildup, and a professional can check if there are any other issues too.
Call us today to book a spring boiler service with Gas Tech Heating Ltd.
Inspect exposed pipework
For those exposed pipes outside your home, and in areas such as basements and attics where drops in temperature can make an impact – it’s important to do checks.
While we are moving into warmer months, the colder weather may have damaged your pipes. So, look for rust, cracks and damage to exposed pipes and flag these to a plumbing professional such as Gas Tech Heating Ltd for a proper repairs and maintenance assessment. Detecting these issues early will mean that severe plumbing issues will be minimised, and you can enjoy your summer without worry.
Test outdoor taps and garden plumbing
With spring now underway, homeowners are likely to be back in the garden and tending to outdoor areas. So, as part of your spring cleaning and garden maintenance, add testing outdoor taps, sprinklers and other garden plumbing to your list. Much like we discussed above, you can also check for leaks outside, for instance if you have noticed water pooling around outdoor taps it is important to get in touch with a professional to prevent hefty bills or damage to garden areas.
For plumbing maintenance support as part of your spring cleaning, Gas Tech Heating Ltd are on hand to provide both boiler servicing, plumbing repairs and maintenance and quick quotes. So, why not get in touch today?