10 Costly Plumbing Mistakes Homeowners Make Every Spring in Portland
Portland Plumbing tips for your home! Spring is the perfect time for home maintenance, but many homeowners unknowingly make plumbing mistakes that lead to expensive repairs down the road. A little oversight can cause leaks, water damage, or even major system failures. Avoid these 10 common plumbing mistakes to keep your home’s water system running smoothly all season long.
1. Ignoring Small Leaks
A tiny drip might seem harmless, but over time, it can lead to mold, water damage, and skyrocketing water bills. Spring is when many leaks become noticeable after winter’s freezing temps have caused small cracks. Don’t ignore it—fix leaks before they get worse! Call us today (503) 761-2038
2. Skipping Gutter and Downspout Cleaning
Gutters and downspouts play a crucial role in directing water away from your home’s foundation. If they’re clogged with leaves and debris, water backs up and can seep into your home, leading to costly repairs. Make sure to clear them out before Portland’s spring rains arrive!
3. Failing to Check for Pipe Damage
Winter can be rough on pipes, even if they didn’t freeze. The expansion and contraction from temperature changes can weaken connections, causing small leaks that grow over time. Inspect visible pipes in basements, under sinks, and near water heaters to catch early signs of trouble.
4. Overloading the Garbage Disposal
With spring cleaning comes a lot of food waste, but be careful what you put down the garbage disposal! Eggshells, coffee grounds, potato peels, and grease can clog your pipes and damage the disposal blades. If you want to keep your kitchen sink running smoothly, toss these in the compost instead.
5. Not Testing the Sump Pump
Spring rain can quickly overwhelm a basement if your sump pump isn’t working properly. Pour a bucket of water into the pit to make sure it activates and drains correctly. If it doesn’t turn on or makes odd noises, it might need servicing or replacement.
6. Delaying Water Heater Maintenance
After working hard all winter, your water heater needs a little attention. Sediment buildup can reduce efficiency, making it work harder (and raising your energy bill). Flushing the tank once a year removes debris and helps it last longer. If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement.
7. Ignoring Slow Drains
A slow drain is often the first sign of a developing clog. Don’t wait until it’s fully blocked! Use a drain snake or natural cleaners like baking soda and vinegar to clear buildup before it turns into a bigger issue. Avoid chemical drain cleaners—they can corrode your pipes. Call us today (503) 761-2038 as this can cause serious damage to your home.
8. Forgetting to Inspect Outdoor Faucets & Hoses
If you shut off your outdoor water supply during the winter, spring is the time to turn it back on and check for leaks or cracks. If you notice a leaky outdoor faucet, it may be a sign of a pipe that burst over the winter. Addressing this early can prevent costly water damage.
9. Flushing the Wrong Things
Even if something says “flushable,” it doesn’t mean your pipes can handle it. Wet wipes, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and even excessive toilet paper can clog your plumbing and cause expensive backups. Stick to flushing only toilet paper!
10. Neglecting Professional Inspections
Some plumbing issues aren’t obvious until they become disasters. A spring plumbing inspection can catch small problems before they turn into major repairs. From checking for hidden leaks to inspecting sewer lines, calling in a professional can save you thousands in the long run.
Don’t Let These Mistakes Drain Your Wallet!
By taking a few simple steps, you can avoid costly plumbing problems and keep your home in top shape this spring. If you notice leaks, clogs, or anything unusual, B&G Excavation and Plumbing is here to help! At B&G, we specialize in keeping your home’s plumbing system in top shape, no matter the reason. From leak detection and drain cleaning to water heater maintenance and sump pump repairs, our experienced team is here to help you avoid costly plumbing issues before they start. Serving Portland and Bend, OR, we provide reliable, professional service with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re dealing with a small leak or need a full plumbing inspection, we’ve got you covered. Call us today to schedule your spring plumbing check-up and protect your home from unnecessary repairs!
📞 Call us today (503) 761-2038 to schedule your spring plumbing inspection and keep your home safe from costly repairs!