Plumbing Spring Cleaning Tips

Chances are that checking your plumbing does not feature in your normal spring cleaning list. You should, however, check your plumbing regularly (at least once a year) as doing preventative maintenance on a regular basis can save you lots of money and time down the line.

Use this checklist as part of your spring cleaning to make sure your plumbing is in tip-top condition and will not give you unexpected problems later on in the season.

Kitchen

  • Check all your faucets for drips and replace washers where required.
  • Fill the kitchen sink with hot water and drain it out at once. This will start cleaning out the drain and, if the water drains slowly, will identify any blockage in the drain. Once the sink is empty, continue running hot water for 15 minutes to clean it out.
  • If the water drains slowly, unblock the drain by plunging or snaking it.
  • Check that there are no leaks in the pipes under the sink.
  • To clean disposal blades, run ice through it and rinse with cold water.

Bathroom

  • Check all your faucets for drips and replace washers where required.
  • Fill the bathroom sink with hot water and drain it out at once. This will start cleaning out the drain and, if the water drains slowly, will identify any blockage in the drain. Once the sink is empty, continue running hot water for 15 minutes to clean it out.
  • If the water drains slowly, unblock the drain by plunging or snaking it.
  • Check that there are no leaks in the pipes under the sink.
  • Clean the p-trap on every sink.
  • Check for cracks and leaks on the bowl and tank of the toilet.
  • After the toilet has flushed, check that the refill valve closes properly. If it doesn’t, you’ll hear water running and will see it overflowing into the bowl.
  • Check for toilet leaks by checking the water in the bowl. The surface should be absolutely still with no ripples.
  • Remove the showerhead and soak it in vinegar for an hour. Use an old brush or toothbrush to remove scale deposits from the aerator or nozzles.

Outdoors

  • Check hoses and faucets for drips and leaks.
  • Clear all debris from gutters, downspouts and storm drain.

Fixtures

  • Drain and flush your water heater to prevent sediment buildup.
  • Has your water heater serviced professionally as per the manufacturer’s recommendations?
  • Check for hidden leaks by closing all faucets and making sure the water meter does not register any water movement.

MN Plumbing & Appliance Installation will help you make sure your plumbing is in excellent condition. Contact us on by phoning (612) 400-7435, sending us an email at Info@MNPlumbing.com, or visit us at 8850 204th St E, Prior Lake, MN 55372