Spring is upon us in Northfield, MN and now that the warmer weather is on its way, it is time to get your home ready for the coming season. The elements can be harsh on your outdoor plumbing, which means that you need to take extra care to watch for leaks and damage.
The damage that happens inside can even cause leaks inside your home, so be careful. Ready to get started? Here are our suggestions for your to-do list.
Check Your Hoses
You should have removed your hoses before the winter because even the small amount of water that gathers in there can cause leaks when it freezes.
That’s why you always turn the shut-off valve in your outdoor faucets off to protect your home and remove hoses for the cold season.
Check that hoses and nozzles are in good repair. Don’t try and extend any worn out parts for another season.
Inspect the Sprinkler
In the fall, you should have blown the air out of the lines and put your system to bed for the season. Now it’s time to get it ready to take good care of your lawn and garden through to the end of the summer.
Start by walking around and checking the nozzles. Replace any that are broken and trim back any grass that has grown over top. Clear out dirt and rocks that might get in the way of the water. Head to the controller, change batteries and check that the time and date settings are accurate.
Check that the water lines didn’t break over the winter. Signs of trouble include bubbling water pools and sunken patches on your lawn.
Faucet Checking
Now it is time to inspect all of your outdoor faucets for leaks. Do you see any dripping or pooling water, or rust that is of concern?
If you are wondering if you have a leak in your faucet’s line, here is an easy test to check. Close the spigot opening with your thumb.
Turn the water on to full. If the water dislodges your thumb, the good pressure means you don’t have a leak. However, if you don’t feel a steady spray, you probably have a leak.
Gutter Cleaning Process
Over the winter, inevitably leaves and other debris will gather in your home’s gutters, especially if you have a heavily treed property.
The problem is that having leaves in your gutters will block the water flow through the downspouts when the spring rains come. This will cause pressure and can cause leaks inside your home.
Get up on the ladder and look for damage. While you are up there, take out the leaves with a broom. After this, don’t forget to look for leaks too.
