Spring Plumbing Checklist: Getting Your Home Ready for Warmer Weather

Your pipes deserve a fresh start too.

After months of cold, harsh winter, that first spring breeze is magical. The sun is out and about. The world begins to thaw. Birds wake up (thank you very much—often at dawn!), and homeowners everywhere begin tackling their annual spring cleaning checklists again.

But while we’re busy sweeping, dusting, and airing out closets—our plumbing? It gets ignored time and time again.

Winter is hard on your pipes. Between freezing temperatures and holiday guests who seem to eat (and discard) at alarming rates, your plumbing system takes a real beating. If you want to avoid late summer clogs, low water pressure all winter, or leaky faucets during BBQ season, spring might just be your golden ticket.

Let’s walk through a simple, easy-to-follow Spring Plumbing Checklist. Print it out, pass it along to your clients, or use it yourself to help homeowners get their plumbing ready for warmer days. And if it turns out some of those issues are more than a quick fix—Kramer Plumbing is just a call away.

1. Carefully Examine All Plumbing Fixtures Inside Your House

During the cold months, your pipes expand and contract—especially if they’re older or lacking insulation. That stress can cause tiny fractures that start as slow leaks and eventually become full-blown disasters.

What to Look For:

• Water spots beneath sinks, behind toilets, or down in the basement

• Stains or bubbling paint on walls or ceilings

• A water bill that suddenly spikes without explanation

Walk around both the inside and outside of your home. Take a good look at all exposed pipes. If you spot even the smallest stream or drip, don’t shrug it off. A slow leak wastes thousands of gallons of water over time and can cause serious damage to walls, ceilings, and flooring.

A leaky pipe might seem minor, but it could cost hundreds of dollars in repairs—not to mention the cost of matching paint, mold remediation, or damaged flooring. So fix it while it’s still small.

Not comfortable checking your pipes? No worries—Kramer Plumbing has a team of seasoned pros who can perform a thorough inspection and handle any leaks before they become a costly mess.

2. Test Water Pressure & Flow

Changes in water pressure can be a clue that something’s not quite right. If a single faucet is weak, it might be as simple as a clogged aerator. But if the pressure is low in multiple areas, you could be dealing with buildup or even a hidden leak.

What to Do:

• Turn on multiple faucets and showers at the same time. Is the pressure consistent?

• Do you hear sputtering, strange sounds, or see discoloration?

• Remove and clean mineral deposits from aerators and showerheads.

If your whole house feels like it’s showering under a drizzle, you may have sediment clogging up the pipes or a more complex plumbing issue. Don't ignore it—spring is the perfect time to flush out those lines or call a pro to investigate.

3. Drain Your Water Heater

Let your water heater join in on the spring reset. Sediment from hard water builds up in the bottom of the tank over time, reducing efficiency and eventually damaging the unit. That gritty layer can even cause strange noises like popping or rumbling.

Quick Steps:

1. Turn off the power or gas to your unit.

2. Let it cool down.

3. Connect a hose to the drain valve.

4. Drain a few gallons until the water runs clear.

If this sounds like a headache—or your hot water still looks rusty or smells weird—call in the pros. Kramer Plumbing’s Water Heater Services include flushing, inspection, and repairs to make sure your system is ready to handle the warmer months ahead.

4. Look for Signs of Slow Flow or Odors in Drains

Spring cleaning means more laundry, more showers, and overall more water usage. That makes it a great time to check your drains for sluggish flow or unpleasant odors.

What to Watch For:

• Water pooling around your feet in the shower

• Gurgling sounds from drains

• Musty or sewage-like odors near sinks and floor drains

If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t reach for harsh chemical drain cleaners. They might eat away at your pipes more than the clog. Instead, try a vinegar and baking soda combo—or better yet, schedule a professional drain cleaning service to do the dirty work safely and effectively.

5. Inspect Outdoor Faucets, Spigots & Hose Bibs

Those outdoor faucets have been in hibernation. Now’s the time to wake them up and check for cracks, leaks, or other signs of cold-weather damage.

Do This Test:

• Turn on the spigot and cover the opening with your thumb.

• If you can stop the flow with your thumb, there’s likely a leak inside the wall.

Don’t forget to reconnect and test your garden hoses. And if you have a sprinkler or irrigation system, give that a test run, too.

🛠 See a leak or notice poor water flow? Get it checked out before gardening and lawn care season kicks into full swing. Kramer Plumbing can make sure you’re set up for a hassle-free summer.

6. Test Your Sump Pump (Before It Rains)

Spring means melting snow, heavy rain, and the potential for water creeping into basements. If your sump pump isn’t working properly, that next rainstorm could flood your entire lower level.

To Test It:

1. Slowly pour a bucket of water into the sump pit.

2. The pump should turn on and start pumping.

3. If it doesn’t, or makes strange noises, it’s time to call a pro.

A failed sump pump can cost thousands in flood damage—and that’s before the mold shows up. Testing it now could save you a big headache later.

7. Check Toilets for Leaks or Phantom Flushing

Your toilet is one of the most frequently used items in your home, and it's also one of the most common places for a silent leak.

Try This:

• Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank.

• Wait 30 minutes (don’t flush).

• If color appears in the bowl, you have a leak.

Most likely it’s a worn flapper—a cheap and easy fix. But if the toilet is always running or randomly refilling (aka phantom flushing), it could be a deeper issue worth a professional look.

8. Inspect Exposed Pipes & Crawl Spaces

Now’s a great time to poke around the basement, crawl space, or attic and give all your exposed plumbing a once-over.

Check For:

• Rust or corrosion

• Cracked or missing insulation

• Loose joints

• Dampness or puddles

These areas often go ignored during the winter months—spring is your chance to spot problems before they get worse.

9. Replace Worn Out Plumbing Fixtures or Parts

Spring is a season for new beginnings. If you’ve been putting off that dripping faucet or loose showerhead, now’s the time to take care of it.

Why it’s Worth It:

• Saves water and lowers bills

• Improves flow and pressure

• Prevents future pipe damage

• Gives your bathroom or kitchen a mini upgrade

And if you're ready for something bigger—like a full fixture replacement—consider switching to more water-efficient options and get a fresh look while you're at it.

Final Thoughts: Let Spring Be a Fresh Start—for Your Plumbing, Too

Spring is about more than flowers and longer days. It’s a time to shake off the mess of winter and set your home up for a smoother living. A quick plumbing check now can save you from expensive repairs, summer surprises, and frustrating weekends waiting for hot water.

Need help tackling your checklist? The team at Kramer Plumbing is happy to help. Whether it’s leak detection, drain cleaning, water heater service, or just a spring plumbing tune-up—we’ll get things flowing in the right direction.

So print out this checklist, give your plumbing a once-over, and breathe easy knowing your home is ready for the season ahead.