Spring Drain Cleaning and Plumbing Maintenance

Make sure all your systems are ‘go' for the wet months with these drain cleaning and plumbing maintenance tips:

• Check faucets for drips and leaks and make repairs to conserve water.
• Ensure drains have strainers to prevent clogging.
• Check toilet tanks and bowls for cracks.
• Check toilets for hidden leaks by and adding six drops of food colouring to your toilet tank. If leaks are present, colour will appear in the bowl within 30 minutes.
• Exercise water supply valves under sinks and toilets to prevent sticking.
• Clean mineral deposits from your shower head by soaking it in vinegar. Secure a plastic bag filled with vinegar over it and let it soak overnight. Scrub with a toothbrush to remove deposits.
• Repair toilets that require holding the handle down or jiggling it to get a thorough flush. They likely have worn parts, and replacing these parts will save you money on your water bill.
• Check dishwasher, washing machine and ice maker supply hoses for bulges or leaks. Replace hoses over 10 years old, or if they show signs of weakness.
• Pour a gallon of water into infrequently used drains to fill the trap and prevent odours. Slow drains should be snaked to ensure they can carry water quickly in case of a flood.
• Check exposed basement pipes for leaks.
• If your home has a sump pump, test it by pouring a few buckets of water into the sump pit. The pump should quickly turn on, discharge the water, and shut off without problems.
• Install a back-flow valve in the floor drain to prevent sewer backups.
• Install flood alarms to alert you at the first signs of flooding.
• Ensure yard drains, gutters and downspouts are cleaned out, open, and free of debris.
• Check for bird nests in plumbing vent pipes.
• Check faucets and hose bibs to ensure water flows freely.