Spring in Tigard, Oregon, brings blooming flowers, warmer days, and the perfect opportunity to give your home’s plumbing system a much-needed check-up. After a long, wet Pacific Northwest winter, your pipes, drains, and appliances may be under more stress than you realize.
Here at Einstein Pros Tigard, we know how essential preventative plumbing maintenance is for avoiding surprise leaks, costly repairs, or even water damage. This guide will walk you through essential spring plumbing inspection tipstailored specifically for Tigard homeowners—ensuring your system runs smoothly all season long.
✅ 1. Inspect for Winter Damage
Cold snaps and freezing temperatures can do a number on your plumbing. Start your inspection by:
- Checking exposed pipes in crawlspaces or garages for cracks, rust, or bulges.
- Looking for any signs of leaks under sinks and in basements.
- Making sure outdoor spigots weren’t damaged by frost.
If you notice any issues, don’t delay—schedule plumbing repair in Tigard before a minor issue becomes a flood.
🚽 2. Test Toilets for Hidden Leaks
A toilet that runs constantly or leaks silently can waste thousands of gallons of water a year.
Here’s a quick test:
- Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank.
- Wait 10–15 minutes without flushing.
- If color appears in the bowl, you’ve got a leak.
Replacing the flapper or fill valve is often a quick fix, or contact our Tigard plumbing professionals for help.
🚰 3. Flush the Water Heater
Sediment builds up over time in water heaters—especially in areas with moderate mineral content like Tigard. This can:
- Decrease efficiency
- Shorten the lifespan of your unit
- Lead to lukewarm water or odd noises
To flush your tank:
- Turn off the power or gas supply.
- Connect a hose to the drain valve.
- Empty it into a drain or bucket.
- Let the water run until clear.
If your water heater is over 8–10 years old, consider a tankless water heater upgrade with Einstein Pros Tigard to save energy and space.
🧼 4. Clear Out Drains and Gutters
Spring rain can easily overload your home’s drainage system if clogs are present. Make sure to:
- Clear out leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts
- Pour boiling water or baking soda + vinegar down sinks to prevent buildup
- Inspect basement floor drains for slow drainage or foul smells
If multiple drains are slow or backflow is occurring, it may be time for professional drain cleaning in Tigard.
💧 5. Check Water Pressure
Low water pressure might be a sign of:
- A hidden leak
- Sediment clogging pipes or fixtures
- Failing pressure regulators
You can test this with a simple pressure gauge (available at hardware stores). Ideal pressure for most homes is between 40–60 psi. Anything too high could stress your pipes, while too low means inefficiency.
Need help? Einstein Pros Tigard can diagnose and adjust your water pressure settings safely.
🌿 6. Inspect Outdoor Plumbing Systems
Spring is when many homeowners start watering lawns or planting gardens, so:
- Reconnect and test hoses
- Inspect irrigation lines for leaks or blockages
- Make sure hose bibs and shutoff valves are working correctly
If your irrigation system hasn’t been serviced in a few years, now’s the perfect time to do it. A leak in one zone can waste hundreds of gallons a day.
🛠️ 7. Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection
While many of these tasks are homeowner-friendly, nothing beats the peace of mind from a full system inspection by licensed pros.
A spring check-up from Einstein Pros in Tigard includes:
- Camera inspections of your sewer line
- Fixture and appliance checks
- Leak detection and water pressure testing
- Preventative maintenance recommendations
It’s a small investment that can prevent thousands in water damage or emergency repairs later.
🧠 Final Thought: Prevention Saves Money
Taking the time each spring to check in on your plumbing helps you stay ahead of leaks, clogs, and efficiency losses. Whether you tackle it yourself or call in our friendly Tigard plumbing experts, these proactive steps will save you money and hassle in the long run.
Need help or want to schedule a spring inspection?
Contact Einstein Pros Tigard today or call us to book your seasonal service with licensed, local professionals.
Source: PHCC – Plumbing Maintenance Tips